New Build Upgrades: What to do now, what to do later?

Discussion in 'Renovation & Home Improvement' started by JenQld19, 22nd Feb, 2020.

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  1. Archaon

    Archaon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    20th Mar, 2017
    Posts:
    1,896
    Location:
    Newcastle
    Upgrades we are considering:
    - Upgrade ceiling bats from R2.5 to Bradford Gold R7.0 or R5.0 (still waiting on cost). This should be done during the build and covered by builders 7 year warranty
    - An additional $5318 on electrical (this is for dimmable down lights, shed lighting, external lighting, additional powerpoints, TV and data points upgraded exhaust fan in a large bathroom and under cabinet lighting in kitchen. Should be done during the build, covered by warranty etc
    - An additional $2324 to upgrade tapware/fixtures not including vanities in all bathrooms (we might be able to save a little if we upgrade the house only and not granny flat). What happens if you get a plumber in later and they damage the vanity/wall etc, the warranty from the builder isn't gonna cover that.
    - Study Nook $3411 Could be done at a later date
    - Laundry Cabinets $1270 Could be done at a later date
    - Wardrobe Drawers $1512 If you wanna put custom built-ins in, ask that the builder doesnt put in builders robes with the sinmgle shelf and hanging space, as it will cost extra to rip out and repaint
    - Waterfall edge on kitchen $808 Done with the build, impossible to be done after the fact
    - Built in shelving at the end of the bath $500 Done after the Build
    - Upgrade to Vinyl Planking $890 (from tiles but we hate tiles) Done during the build or take tiles out completely, you may be able to get vinyl planking done cheaper by a 3rd party. You can save yourself money by not getting floor coverings done by the builder.
    - Carpet $200 per L/M (Up from originally quoted $150 in original contract) = $1318 As Above
    - Upgrade kitchen 2 pac cabinet instead of laminate $4224 What laminate, Laminex? not sure many people do 2pac kitchens these days.
    -6.6kw Solar ($5.5k for cheaper quality or $8.9k for LG and more expensive quality). Can be done after the build
    -Upgrade ceiling fans from metal 3 blade basic to better quality better airflow DC approx $250-$300 per fan (bedroom fans are much cheaper than Large living room and external fans).
    I'd get fans done by builder, and covered by builders warranty
    What would you include? What would you forget or do later? Any suggestions for quality inclusions we haven’t considered?