So, You Bought a Fixer-Upper... Now What?
Residential
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You’ve secured the property, signed the papers and opened the door to a home with potential and a to-do list that feels longer than the driveway. The good news is that with the right plan, you can turn that potential into a practical, comfortable space without losing time or money.
Before making big decisions, take time to understand the house you’ve just taken on. Walk through each room with a critical eye, making note of what works, what doesn’t and what needs urgent attention. Many renovators find it useful to live in the residence briefly, if possible, to get a feel for the layout, natural light and flow.
Renovation experts have long recommended spending a few months in a property before committing to significant changes. Living in a property reveals quirks and unexpected challenges you may not have noticed during viewings. It helps you plan upgrades in order of priority so you can genuinely improve your daily life. While you may have saved as much as $100,000 by buying a house that needs repairs, you’ll have to plan wisely how and where that will happen.
A fixer-upper usually comes with competing priorities, so deciding what to tackle first is essential. Grouping projects into categories can make the process feel more manageable. Likewise, spending on projects with a high return on investment, such as energy efficiency upgrades, can replenish funds in your budget. Electricity and gas costs have steadily increased since October 2024, making this a priority in creating a sustainable property. Consider the following tips.
New Zealand’s renovation rules mean you can’t tackle everything yourself. However, some tasks are ideal for DIY, while others should be left to licensed tradespeople.
Good DIY projects include painting walls, landscaping and gardening, removing old carpet and simple cosmetic changes, like replacing cabinet handles. Work that requires licensed professionals includes electrical tasks, plumbing and gasfitting, structural renovations and any restricted building labor as defined by the Building Act.
If you’re renovating on a budget, try tackling labor-heavy but low-risk tasks yourself, such as basic hand demolition and cleanup. These jobs can cut costs without compromising safety, but hire professional services for demolishing asbestos materials, as they will safely remove and dispose of this harmful substance.
Living through a renovation sounds manageable until the dust, noise and disruptions start. The decision to stay or move out depends on the scope of your project and your tolerance for chaos.
You may need temporary accommodation if your only bathroom is unusable, your kitchen is stripped to the bones during a structural upgrade or the entire ceiling is removed for HVAC installation. Some homeowners choose short-term rentals or baches that are fully furnished and move-in ready for those needing temporary accommodations. These offer a practical way to maintain daily routines while your residence is unlivable during major projects.
Some temporary options are fully equipped with amenities and Wi-Fi, so you can continue with your life and work while waiting for the completion of repairs and upgrades at your property. Short-term housing reduces disruption when your living space becomes a construction site.
Renovations often cost more and take longer than expected. A detailed cost analysis provides a clear roadmap and minimises surprises. Studies have found that a contingency budget of 22% to 50% for noncomplex projects is advisable, so you’ll need to add that over your calculated expenses to ensure you have capital for unexpected costs. Likewise, you’ll need quotes from multiple contractors and track costs from day one.
Check council consent requirements early in your renovations. Any upgrades involving structural changes, plumbing alterations, drainage, heating systems or additions may require further consent.
It’s best to contact your local council early in the process, so you know exactly what you’re allowed to do and how long approvals may take. Starting without consent can lead to delays, fines or issues when selling the property later. Typically, council consent takes up to 20 days for approval, depending on the complexity of your paperwork and project.
Owning a fixer-upper is a chance to shape a residence around your lifestyle, taste and long-term goals. The process becomes far smoother when you prioritise essential repairs, invest in the right expertise and plan where you’ll live during the build and budget realistically. With a clear approach, your building renewal investment can evolve from a project into a place you’re proud to call home.
About the Author: Evelyn Long is a trusted voice in real estate dedicated to helping millennial and Gen Z buyers make their homeownership dreams a reality. Her insights appear in top publications like the National Association of Realtors and Realty Executives, where she breaks down market updates and practical steps for young buyers. As editor in chief of Renovated Magazine, Evelyn is passionate about empowering the next generation to confidently enter the real estate market
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