Kitchen Renovation Brisbane: Your Guide to Kitchen Renovations in 2023

Thinking about renovating your kitchen this year? If you are, you’re not alone! When it comes to the type of kitchen renovation Brisbane homeowners plan this year, you’ll notice that a lot of them follow current local and international trends. Before we jump into what these trends are, let’s first discuss a bit of renovation fun facts.

Aussie homeowners have long been a nation of renovators and this has been proven time and time again over the years. Here are some interesting statistics on home renovation spending in 2021-22 that show what we mean:

• Australians spent more on home renovations during the pandemic years than at any other time since records began 50 years ago.
• In 2021, Australians spent $9.2 billion on renovations, which was a 10% increase from the previous year.
• In 2022, the spending on home renovations soared to $12.3 billion, marking a 33% increase from 2020.
• This renovation spending in 2022 was almost double the amount spent on renovations a decade ago.
• The Federal HomeBuilder scheme, which offered between $15,000 and $25,000 for major renovations, played a role in this surge. Since its launch, almost 25,000 renovators have applied.

Also worth noting are the following facts:

1. Almost 90% of the population believe that home renovations are a fantastic way to increase the value of a property.
2. Whether we admit it or not, we Australian’s love our home improvement reality TV shows (according to research by HalfPrice, following the 2014 premiere of House Rules there was a 35% increase in kitchen renovations).

But after the first flush of inspiration wears off, you may be left wondering just where to begin. They make it look so easy on TV, but when it comes to renovating a kitchen in real life, what is involved?  What should you know about kitchen design? How much will a kitchen reno cost? What is the anticipated return on investment for a kitchen renovation? And what options are available when it comes to financing a kitchen renovation project?

This guide to kitchen renovation Brisbane homeowners can use for their own renovation plans has been created to answer all these questions and more. Based on expert advice, we’ll talk you through the entire Brisbane kitchen renovation process, from establishing a budget to sketching out a design, choosing finishes and organising finance.

Kitchen Renovation Brisbane: Top 2023 Trends

Before we launch into the ultimate guide to the kind of kitchen renovation Brisbane homeowners will be happy with, let’s see what trends are popular in the area of late.  As 2023 unfolds, several distinct trends are shaping the kitchen renovation landscape in Brisbane. This list should offer insights into what homeowners can expect and how the kitchen renovation cost in Brisbane is influenced by these evolving styles.

Sustainable Kitchens: The Green Revolution

Eco-consciousness is at the forefront of design in 2023. Brisbane homeowners are increasingly opting for sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances. The shift towards green kitchens not only reduces the carbon footprint but also significantly impacts the overall kitchen renovation cost. From recycled countertops to energy-saving lighting solutions, the green trend is here to stay.

Open-Plan Designs: Breathing Space

Gone are the days of closed-off kitchens. The modern Brisbane home embraces open-plan designs, seamlessly integrating the kitchen with living and dining areas. This design not only offers a spacious feel but also promotes social interaction. However, transitioning to an open plan might influence the cost of kitchen renovation, depending on the existing layout.

Tech-Savvy Kitchens: The Future is Now

With advancements in technology, the modern kitchen in Brisbane is becoming a hub of innovation. From smart refrigerators to voice-controlled lighting, technology integration is reshaping the kitchen experience. While these gadgets might raise your kitchen remodel cost, they offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency.

Embracing Nature: Biophilic Designs

2023 sees a rise in kitchens that blend indoor spaces with natural elements. Incorporating wood, stone, and even indoor plants, these designs create a serene environment. Biophilic designs not only enhance aesthetics but also promote well-being, making them a popular choice regardless of the kitchen reno cost.

Bold and Beautiful: Vibrant Palettes

Neutral tones may have their charm, but the kitchen renovation Brisbane homes will see in 2023 are all about bold colours and textures. From vibrant backsplashes to textured countertops, homeowners are experimenting with various materials and hues. These choices, while enhancing the visual appeal, can also influence the budget for any kitchen reno Brisbane homeowners plan.

Islands: The Multi-Functional Centrepiece

Kitchen islands have evolved from mere countertops to multi-functional spaces. Equipped with storage solutions, dining spaces, and even cooking stations, islands are the new must-haves. Note, however, that customising these islands can impact your overall kitchen remodel cost.

Minimalism: Less is More

The minimalist trend continues to dominate in 2023. Brisbane homeowners are opting for clean lines, hidden storage, and clutter-free spaces. This design philosophy, while offering a sleek look, can sometimes be more cost-effective, reducing the overall cost of kitchen renovation.

Local Artistry: Celebrating Brisbane’s Craftsmanship

Local artisanal touches are adding character to Brisbane kitchens. Handcrafted tiles, bespoke fixtures, and unique decor pieces celebrate the city’s rich craftsmanship, adding a touch of authenticity.

2023 is set to be an exciting year for any kitchen renovation Brisbane homes will undergo. From sustainable designs to tech integrations, the trends are diverse and cater to various budgets. Whether you’re considering a complete overhaul or a minor facelift, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions, ensuring you get the best value for your money when it comes to kitchen renovations.

The Basics Of Planning A Kitchen Renovation in Brisbane

Every kitchen renovation should begin with a well-thought-out plan. Without a plan, you could end up with key elements overlooked, costs that blow way over budget and a kitchen that doesn’t really meet the needs of your family. Establishing a basic strategy from the very beginning will help you stay on track right throughout the renovation process.

This section will walk you through the critical planning stage and cover topics such as costs, layout, finishes and establishing a basic scope of works (in other words, what work will be completed and in what order).

Establish your budget for a kitchen renovation Brisbane:

This should always be the first step in your Brisbane kitchen renovations because it will have an impact on everything from the scope to the materials and appliances to how much finance you may need. The key is to establish a realistic budget – there’s no point saying “I’m going to do a total overhaul, with top-of-the-line appliances and high-end finishes” if the reality is you don’t want to spend more than $3,000. Start by answering some simple questions: Are you planning a major renovation or a cosmetic touch-up? Are there any aspects of the project you can complete yourself (instead of hiring a professional)? Will you need to move plumbing or gas connections (work that will take longer and require a licensed professional)? Try using online tools such as the Bunnings Kitchen Designer to get a better understanding of what your project will involve.

Get measuring:

Before you can start making decisions relating to the layout of the kitchen, you first need to know the dimensions. So, whip out a measuring tape and make a note of these key measurements:

• The length and width of the kitchen
• The ceiling height
• The length of each wall
• Door and window dimensions (including the height of each window from the floor)
• The location and dimensions of existing appliances (oven, cooktop, dishwasher, etc.)
• The location of existing light switches and power points

Sketch a basic layout:

When renovating a kitchen, you don’t just want it to look good, you also need the space to be functional. The best way to do this is to sketch out a rough design of where you think everything should go. Try using a common principle of kitchen design that is often referred to as the  ‘Golden Triangle’ or the ‘Kitchen Triangle Theory’. This principle states that there are three high-traffic areas in any kitchen for food preparation (fridge), cooking (oven/cooktop) and cleaning up (sink).  These are the points you will move between the most when you’re in the kitchen, so they should be well spaced and easily accessible. This means that you should be able to draw a line from each of  these key points to form a triangle, remembering that:

• Each side of the triangle should be approximately 1200mm – 2750mm (not too far apart or close together).
• When you add up the length of all three sides, it should equal between 3960mm and  7920mm.
• Traffic flow through the middle of the triangle should be clear.
• No full-height cupboards or appliances should intersect any of the core areas.

The IKEA Kitchen Planner is a great tool when it comes to planning the design and layout of your kitchen space.

Think about colours and textures:

Colour plays an important role in creating a beautiful kitchen, but it’s important to consider the overall look, not just the individual elements. So, think about how the colour of your splashback will look against the colour of the bench and the adjacent wall paint. Consider how using different textures, such as timber cabinets or stone benchtops, will change the style of the kitchen. One of the easiest ways to do this is by doing a google search for kitchen design ideas. Make a note of what style you prefer, what colours you think would work well and what finishes you’d like to incorporate into your own kitchen renovation. If you’ve never used Pinterest before to find ideas on kitchen renovations in Brisbane, now could be a great time to start!

Decide what kind of kitchen cabinetry you want:

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to kitchen cabinetry styles. In addition to affecting how the kitchen will look, it’s important to think about how easy a cabinet will be to clean (kitchens are messy places), how durable the product will be (lots of sharp objects) and what kind of cost is involved (you don’t want to blow your entire budget on the cabinets). Some of the kitchen cabinetry options available include:

Timber kitchen cabinets

Kitchen timber cabinets can be painted or left with a natural finish and create a nice balance when used in a predominantly white kitchen (white walls, white benchtops, etc.). Timber is a softer material, so it can be more prone to damage, but it is also relatively simple to fix when damage does occur. Timber is also susceptible to water damage.

Recycled timber cabinets

Recycled timber is an eco-friendly choice for Brisbane homeowners seeking to reduce the carbon impact of their kitchen renovation. However, recycled timber can be costly, as it takes more effort to source repurposed materials with a consistent finish.

Laminate cabinets for kitchen

is one of the most popular options because it is cost-effective, durable and comes in a great range of colours (including timber-look finishes). While laminate is more impervious to stains, scratches and water damage than some other products if any damage does occur it is almost impossible to repair.

Thermofoil kitchen cabinets

Thermofoil cabinets are another cost-effective option that comes in a wide variety of colours and styles. However, the name is something of a misnomer, as thermofoil cabinets are covered in vacuum-pressed vinyl which (unlike foil) is easily damaged by heat.

Metal kitchen cabinets

Metal cabinets are a less common option, but they can be a real stand-out feature when they come with a brushed or polished finish. These are a pricier option and you’ll need to watch out as they scratch and dent a lot more easily than other cabinets. But they are also stain resistant and you won’t have to worry about them being heat damaged.

Plan a basic scope of works:

To avoid unnecessary (and potentially costly) delays, you’ll need to come up with a basic scope of works for your project. This means listing out what needs to be done,  in what order, by whom and with what materials.

It’s important to allow sufficient time when it comes to ordering products. For example, a benchtop could take 3 weeks to deliver from the time of ordering, and tiles that you like on display may be out of stock. When you’re choosing your products make sure you ask the lead time on orders and whether you should allow for any anticipated delays. A standard  kitchen renovation would usually be completed in the following order:

• Demolition – the old kitchen is removed.
• Licensed trades (plumber and electrician) rough-in any proposed changes. 3. Kitchen cabinets are installed.
• The kitchen benchtop is installed.
• Appliances are fitted and connected.
• The splashback is completed.
• Cabinet door furniture is fitted (draws, handles, etc.).
• The bulkhead and kickboards are installed above and below the cabinets. 9. The flooring is completed.
• The plumbing and electrical fit-offs are completed.

Talk to your trades about how much notice they’ll need before they can come on-site and how long they anticipate their work will take. This will help you to create your timeline.

If you require financing, you need to add this to your renovation timeline. In 2023, savvy homeowners are accessing the equity in their homes to pay for renovations. You will need to apply for a mortgage refinance in order to access your built-up equity. This may take a bit of doing, but a professional mortgage broker can help you streamline the application process.

KITCHEN RENOVATION COSTS

Not only will you need to plan a budget before you get started on your kitchen renovation, but you’ll also need to try and stick to it once the work gets started. Most kitchen renovations will involve some unexpected costs along the way, as it can be difficult to accurately assess just how much work is required prior to the demolition stage. This is why it’s also important to factor a buffer into your budget (and how much you decide to ask a bank for if you need finance)

How much does it cost to renovate a kitchen?

In a recent post by Hi Pages, (an online platform for sourcing tradies and materials) the average cost to renovate a kitchen is between $12,000 and $16,000. These days, the kitchen renovation cost Brisbane homeowners have to cover is around $25,000 to $50,000, and this is due to a number of things. These include the kind of finishes, appliances, materials, and accessories you decide to use as well as rising costs of labour and material shortages in 2023.

Remember that it is also possible to select a mix of budget and high-end products depending on where you’d prefer to invest your money. For example, many prefer to spend a little more on good quality appliances and then opt for a more cost-effective floor tile.

Labour costs are another important element of any kitchen renovation budget. An all-inclusive labour quote will naturally cost more than if you choose to complete some of the work yourself (such as the painting, tiling or demolition). A word of caution when it comes to labour: it is always worth investing in a licensed and qualified trade for electrical, plumbing and gas works. And if you’re not confident in doing some of the work yourself, then it’s better to pay someone who knows what they’re doing. Otherwise, you could end up with a costly repair bill down the track!

For more information about the costs involved in a kitchen renovation, Archicentre Australia provides a downloadable Kitchen Renovation Cost Guide for budgeting purposes.

What kind of return on investment (ROI) can I expect on a kitchen renovation?

It’s a common assumption that a kitchen renovation will increase the value of your property. While this is generally true, it doesn’t mean that if you spend $20,000 on a new kitchen, you’ll automatically get that $20,000 investment back when you decide to sell. So, what kind of return on investment should you expect with a kitchen renovation? Is it worth the time and expense?

Is a kitchen renovation worth the time and expense?

According to financial counsellor Dave Ramsey, kitchens play a fundamental role in impressing potential buyers. As per the recent survey, Mr Ramsey found that 80% of buyers listed the kitchen in the top three most important areas within the home. In other words, if your kitchen is looking very sad, dated or cluttered, then this is going to be a big turn-off for many buyers.

On the other hand, a newly renovated kitchen can act like a facelift for the whole house, potentially making it quicker and easier to sell your home. In the same survey, Mr Ramsey noted that 55% of respondents would have happily paid more for a property if the kitchen came with granite benchtops, while 69%  would be willing to increase their offer if the house had new kitchen appliances installed. In light of this, a kitchen renovation can be worth the cost, but that doesn’t mean you should expect to get a 100% ROI.

Be careful not to go overboard when renovating your kitchen

Establishing a budget involves more than just determining how much you can afford to spend – you also need to figure out how much you should spend. Cherie Barber, a renowned home renovation and property specialist, has a formula for determining renovation budgets. To begin with, get an estimate on your current property value – now, don’t spend more than 10% of this value on cosmetic renovations (this would include updating appliances and fixtures, repainting or tiling, etc. – it does not include renovations that increase the size of home). From the total cosmetic renovation budget, Ms Barber won’t spend more than 20% on renovating a kitchen. For example, if your property is valued at  $550,000 then your cosmetic renovation budget is $55,000 and only $11,000 should be allocated towards the kitchen.

Online real estate platform Open Agent reports that the average kitchen renovation will cost around  $15,000, with a 90% ROI. In other words, the $15,000 kitchen upgrade will typically increase your property value by about $13,500. So, while a kitchen renovation can add value back to your home and make it easier to sell, don’t expect to recoup all of your renovating costs once you decide to sell.

To ensure you get the best possible ROI for your kitchen renovation, take the time to do some research before you decide on a final budget. Talk to a real estate agent to see what local buyers are most interested in and view listing and sale prices for other comparable properties in your area (both renovated and un-renovated). This will help you to get an understanding of how much value a kitchen renovation is likely to add to your property.

Is it possible to save money on a kitchen renovation Brisbane?

Yes. And saving money on kitchen renovations in Brisbane doesn’t mean you have to compromise heavily on appliances or keep the same old ugly tiles that you’ve always hated. If you’re trying to tighten up your kitchen renovations budget then there are a few simple things you can do that will make a real difference to the overall renovation cost:

• Minimise plumbing costs by leaving the layout the same (there is a lot more work involved for a plumber if they have to re-run pipes).
• Try to bulk order materials, as this will often generate a small discount.
• Co-ordinate your tradespeople so that they can work together efficiently and effectively (if an electrician has to come out twice because the builder hasn’t finished installing cabinetry, then you may get charged two full-day rates for work that could have been completed in one day).
• Look for appliances that have been refurbished or that are factory seconds. These will usually come with a warranty but offer significant savings.
• Aim for cosmetic upgrades in place of structural alterations. For example, paint the cabinets,  replace the splashback and install a new benchtop instead of completely gutting the kitchen and starting from scratch.

KITCHEN IDEAS IN BRISBANE

So, you’ve made a plan and you’ve established a kitchen renovation budget. Now you just need to stick to it. This can often be harder than you might expect, so look to minimise costs where possible. This doesn’t mean you have to renovate your kitchen on the cheap, but neither do you have to spend more than is actually necessary.

You’ll also need to decide on what kind of finishes you want to use throughout the kitchen, including for your cabinets, tapware, splashbacks and benchtop. When deciding on which finishes you’re going to use, try to evaluate style, cost and quality, remembering to stay within your set budget. Some factors to consider when renovating a kitchen include:

The high-quality alternatives to a marble benchtop:

Marble and granite are fantastic products for benchtops, but they are also amongst the most expensive benchtop finishes. An alternative is to choose an engineered quartz benchtop, such as Caesarstone. A 5m length of Caesarstone will typically cost around $2,800, while for a similar-sized piece of granite you’d pay $3,300 and $3,500 for marble. In addition to saving approximately $500-$700 on your benchtop, you’ll also get a product that looks fantastic, is heat resistant, easy to clean, exceptionally durable and scratch-resistant.

How to select your kitchen splashback:

A splashback can play a huge role in determining the overall look and style of your renovated kitchen. Start by deciding what kind of splashback you’d like – common products include tiles, toughened glass and pressed metal. When choosing a colour, think about whether you want the splashback to blend in for a neutral finish, or stand out as a bold feature piece. It’s also important to consider how the splashback will look against the benchtop.

Choosing the perfect kitchen sink:

A sink needs to match the style of your kitchen, but it is also a high-use element that needs to be functional. Oversized or double sinks are very popular, as they can make it easier to deal with a large number of dishes. However, a big sink will also use up extra bench space,  so you’ll need to decide which feature is most important to you when you’re working in the kitchen. The most common finishes for a sink include:

Stainless steel – Undoubtedly the most common sink chosen is stainless steel. These sinks are cost-effective, lightweight and are available in a wide range of sizes and styles. Stainless steel sinks are also available in a range of colours, including black, rose-gold and copper  (design trends that have been very popular over the last few years), but they do tend to scratch.

Composite sinks – Known for being hard-wearing, composite sinks are made from a  mixture of granite resin, heavy plastic dust, and quartz. These sinks are becoming increasingly popular because they look fantastic and are scratch-resistant, but they can be susceptible to watermarks and may even crack if exposed to boiling water.

Traditional enamel – These sinks are becoming less popular because they are very heavy and the enamel can start to wear away over time. However, for a traditional farm-style kitchen an enamel sink can act as a key design feature.

Deciding how to install your sink:

Once you’ve chosen your sink, you’ll need to decide how you’re going to have it installed. Sinks can be fitted in one of three ways – when deciding which method is right for your kitchen, you’ll need to consider the kind of benchtop you’ve chosen and what kind of look you want to achieve.

Flush-mount – A flush-mount sink will have no discernible lip between the sink and the height of the benchtop. This creates a seamless-looking finish.

Under-mount – An under-mount sink sits below the benchtop, so the benchtop will be exposed to water. Because of this, under-mount sinks are better suited to granite, marble, or  Caesarstone benchtops which can handle a certain level of water exposure.

Top-mount – A top-mount sink will sit slightly higher than the benchtop, creating a lip around the edge of the sink. This is a good choice for laminate benchtops, as it minimises the amount of water that splashes out onto the benchtop.

Selecting your kitchen tapware:

Smaller finishes (like tapware) can be overlooked in the first initial rush to decide on tile colour and splashback details. But a tap can change the entire style of your kitchen and upgrading to a new tap is a great way to really modernise a kitchen. Besides the functional features (such as a flip mixer temperature control, in-built water filter or a pull-out spray  attachment) you’ll need to select a style and finish. In addition to classic stainless steel, popular colours for tapware now include black, copper, gold and rose-gold, in either a matte or polished finish.

THE KITCHEN FLOORPLAN

In Section 1 of this guide, we learnt about preparing a basic layout for your kitchen. Now we’re going to expand on that, by discussing the most common kitchen floorplans. Each floorplan comes with its own list of pros and cons, so ultimately, choosing the right floorplan will often come down to the existing layout of your kitchen, functionality, and personal preference. Don’t forget the Golden Triangle principle when considering which floorplan is right for your kitchen.

#1: The Island Kitchen:

Including an island bar in the middle of the kitchen is a great way to increase your bench space and make cooking a more social activity. But it also means you need a lot of floor space since the average island bench will be at least 1 metre wide and about 2 metres long. Allowing for 1 metre of clearance on all 4 sides of the island bench, you can see why this floorplan calls for a  sizable kitchen.

Pros:

• Creates extra bench space on top and storage space underneath.
• Gives the kitchen a communal feel – you can chat with someone in the adjacent living area while preparing food.
• You have the ability to fit the sink or even a cooktop into the island bench.

Cons:

• An island bench will take up a lot of floor space.

#2: The U-Shaped Kitchen

A U-shaped kitchen can be marvellous for large families who want to work in the kitchen together. A  U-shaped kitchen creates a lot of usable bench space and can free up the kitchen, creating an open plan feel to the room. Size is also important for a U-shaped kitchen – too big and you’ll feel like you’re going on a trek just to get from one workspace to another.

Pros:

Ideal for homes with an open-plan design.
Plenty of food preparation space (great for multiple cooks).
Creates space in the centre for a dining table (easy to serve prepared food). Cons:
Can look a little old-fashioned in some kitchens.
If the kitchen is very big it can create issues moving from one workspace to another. ● Overhead cabinets on all 3 sides can make the room feel cramped.

#3: The L-Shaped Kitchen:

L-shaped kitchens are great when you only have one or two people who  want to work side-by-side. This style of kitchen can fit in most spaces and is great for making a small  space feel bigger than it really is. This effect can be enhanced by putting full-height appliances (fridge,  wall oven, etc.) and cabinets (pantry) along one wall, leaving the other side for bench space.

Pros:

• Great for making a small kitchen feel bigger.
• A popular style that is well-suited to social food preparation (talking with guests while you cook).

Cons:

• Bench space can be limited.
• The flow between key areas may not feel as natural.

#4: The Straight Kitchen:

Straight kitchens run along just one wall and are a popular choice for apartments or units with limited floor space. They’re ideal for creating a kitchen/dining space and for enhancing the feel of open-plan living. A straight kitchen will usually keep appliances at one or both ends of the bench, with the sink in the middle.

Pros:

• Minimalist styling is great for open-plan living.
• Ideally suited to small kitchens that lack sufficient wall space.

Cons:

• There will often be minimal bench space.
• Can look cluttered if too many elements are all jammed along one wall.

#5: The Galley Kitchen:

Galley kitchens aren’t designed to be social spaces, so they’re not ideal for multiple cooks working at the same time. However, if you have a small kitchen space or a particularly narrow room, galley kitchens can be a great solution. Not only do galley kitchens create maximum possible bench space, but they also allow for added storage space.

Pros:

• Ideally suited to small or narrow kitchen areas.
• Allow for maximum cupboard and bench space.

Cons:

• The kitchen can feel closed in (particularly with overhead cupboards).
• The layout is not ideal for socialising or communal cooking.

#6: The Peninsula Kitchen:

Sometimes referred to as the G-shaped kitchen, peninsula kitchens begin with the layout for a U-shaped kitchen and then incorporate another bench along the 4th side. This creates a definite entry point for the kitchen, separating the space from adjacent living areas. Peninsula kitchens create a lot of usable workspace, so they can be a good idea for smaller areas where wall space is at a premium.

Pros:

• The addition of the 4th bench creates a social spot that is ideal for bar stools.
• The kitchen feels open and social, while still maintaining a definitive kitchen zone.

Cons:

• Because it uses up a lot of floor space, the kitchen can feel cramped.

THE DIY KITCHEN RENOVATION BRISBANE

A DIY kitchen renovation may sound terrifying, but you’ll be surprised how many useful tools are available to assist with these kinds of projects. With a bit of homework, you may find that you can complete at least some of the work yourself, saving a substantial amount of money on labour costs.

The key to a successful DIY kitchen renovation is good planning, thorough research, and a reliance on qualified trades when necessary (particularly electrical and plumbing work).

Before You Get Started:

• Do thorough research.
• Set achievable goals.
• Establish a reasonable budget.

Step 1: Planning

• Carefully measure the kitchen space and draw a basic plan.
• Look at sample materials and finishes.
• If necessary, get help from a designer.
• Apply for any necessary permits.
• Confirm your final plans.

Step 2: Ordering & Preparing

• Order kitchen appliances (allow sufficient delivery time).
• Order all other materials, including fittings and finishes.
• Pack up the kitchen, removing everything from cabinets, drawers and benches.
• Set up a temporary kitchen for use throughout the renovation.

Step 3: Demolition, Framing & Rough-In

• Demolition of existing kitchen and removal of debris.
• Completion of any structural changes and framing.
• Electrical, plumbing & mechanical rough-in.

Step 4: Initial Finishes

• Hang plaster (if necessary) and stop up gaps.
• Paint walls.
• Install chosen flooring.

Step 5: Complete Finishes

• Installation of cabinets.
• Fit benchtops.
• Installation of appliances and fixtures.
• Fit backsplash.
• Complete final finishing details.

FINANCING YOUR KITCHEN RENOVATION IN BRISBANE

When it comes to financing your kitchen renovations in Brisbane there are several options that are worth investigating. But, as with any major financial decision, it’s important to consider all options carefully and to think about your specific circumstances. If you’re unsure, seek advice from an experienced mortgage broker in the Brisbane area who can clearly outline the pros and cons of each option.

Option 1: Refinance your home loan

If you’ve built up equity in your property then you may be able to access this equity by refinancing your home loan in Brisbane. What is equity? It’s the difference between the total value of your property and the amount you currently owe on your mortgage. If you’ve owned your home for a few years now you may find that the property value has increased, boosting your total equity, especially this year where homeowners are seeing exponential growth in their property values. For example, if your home is now valued at $850,000, but you only owe $400,000 on your mortgage, then you have $450,000 in equity. By refinancing you could access equity up to 80% LVR without paying LMI and you could use this amount to cover the cost of your renovation. To find out more about refinancing, make an appointment to speak with a Brisbane mortgage broker.

Option 2: Take out a construction loan

If you don’t think you have enough equity in your home then you may be able to take out a construction loan in Brisbane. This type of loan allows you to borrow funds based on the ‘completion value’ of the proposed works. For example, if a valuer thinks your $480,000  home could be worth $500,000 with a brand-new kitchen, then a lender may be willing to offer you a  construction loan based off the higher ‘completion value’. Construction loans are usually issued in installments (to cover the various stages of the project as they become payable) rather than as a lump sum. Construction loans explained here!

Option 3: Investigate a personal loan

If you’re only planning small-scale kitchen renovations Brisbane Northside then it may be possible to take out a personal loan. Personal loans can be relatively quick and easy to get, but that doesn’t necessarily make them a better option. Because personal loans are unsecured, they generally come with a higher interest rate than a typical mortgage – so you could end up paying a lot more for your Brisbane kitchen renovation in the long-run. If you’re looking at a personal loan then make sure you do thorough research and read all the fine print. It’s also a good idea to speak to a broker before you take the plunge and decide to apply for a personal loan. An experienced mortgage broker in Brisbane may be able to help you find a better solution that is going to be more cost-effective.

Option 4: Put everything on the credit card

If all you’re planning is a few coats of paint to freshen up the kitchen, then a credit card could work as a finance option. But we recommend proceeding with extreme caution if you’re planning to finance a full-scale kitchen renovation on your credit card. Credit card interest rates are high…very high! Even cards that offer a lower rate (such as 9.90% p.a.) will still typically charge 21%+ p.a. for cash withdrawals (which may be necessary if your trades don’t accept payment by credit card). Once again, talk to an expert finance broker before you commit to paying for your kitchen renovations in Brisbane with a credit card. Our professional mortgage brokers will be able to talk you through all the available options and compare which product is going to work the best for your situation.

KITCHEN RENOVATION COMPANIES IN BRISBANE

There are plenty of renovation companies in Brisbane that specialise in kitchen renovations. You can also read out these kitchen renovators reviews for kitchen renovations in Brisbane. Finding the right one will depend on your overall kitchen renovation budget, the work required and what level of involvement you want them to have (i.e., project managing vs. labour-hire).

Houzz lists an extensive index of kitchen renovation companies currently operating in the Brisbane area, including:

Kitchens by Kathie Brisbane:

Specialising in made-to-order kitchen cabinets, Kitchens by Kathie has been operating as a Brisbane family-owned business since 1973. The experienced team at Kitchens by Kathie can assist with all aspects of a kitchen renovation, from the initial design, right through to manufacturing and installing cabinetry. The team have been described as “wonderful in designing”  with “a detailed eye for symmetry.” Another recent review says, “we couldn’t be happier with our new kitchen…very knowledgeable and helpful with every step of the process. It made the design and renovation process quite enjoyable!” With such glowing reviews, it’s no wonder that Kitchens by Kathie was recently awarded a ‘2021 Best of Houzz Service Award’ for customer satisfaction.

Makings of Fine Kitchens & Bathrooms in Brisbane:

According to Houzz, this family-owned business specialises in “high-quality bespoke renovations” in a wide range of styles. They offer a 10 step process that will take you from the creation of the project brief all the way through to a completed project with a quality guarantee. They currently boast 7 x Houzz awards and a 5-star ranking based off 22 reviews for their renovation work. One recent review said: “The whole team works so hard for the customers to make sure everything is coordinated and exactly what you want. They are committed to quality workmanship and getting the job done on time and budget. Highly recommend.”

Carlyle Custom Cabinets in Brisbane:

With a 4.9-star rating based on 19 reviews, Carlyle Custom Cabinets complete both residential and commercial work. With over 20 years’ experience in kitchen renovations, they believe that communication plays a key role in the successful outcome of a project. In addition to offering renovation and installation services, they can also take on project management and design roles. A recent kitchen renovation review states: “Thanks to Scott and his team for the great kitchen renovation. The quality, finish, and workmanship were first class and exceeded my expectations. Scott worked within the budget I had given him and didn’t try to push or oversell. He was always punctual and  courteous and kept me informed throughout the process.”

House of Kitchens Brisbane:

As licensed project managers, House of Kitchens also offers design and installation services. HIA members and a QBCC licensed builder, only work with an in-house construction team and strive to provide “an enjoyable, stress-free experience.” With 3 Houzz awards and a 5-star rating (with 18 reviews), they are described as being “easy to work with and eager to  please throughout.” Another recent client mentions that they are “thoughtful, innovative and professional. They listened and provided a wonderful end product.”

Next Steps

Are you ready to take the next step toward accessing your equity or exploring a renovation loan to renovate your kitchen in Brisbane? We’re happy to assist. Book an appointment with one of home loan expert from North Brisbane Home Loans today.