WHAT WE DON'T DO
1. Exact brand and product specification
Whilst we give you advice on what elements to change within your property and recommendations of what colours, product types and styles to use, we do not give exact specifications. For example, we may recommend you select a carpet that matches 'x' paint colour and that it should be (say) a wool/polypropylene mix. Then it's up to you to source and filter through the possibilities and make the final selection yourself. We will be as clear and specific as possible (with written descriptions, photographs etc.) without referring to a particular product.
We know that property investors are a frugal bunch, so we'll leave it up to you to hunt out the best deals, while still adhering to our recommendations!
If you would like our help with selecting exactly which products to choose (from an assortment you have gathered), then we are happy to see you, by appointment, at our premises. The cost for this service is $150 + GST (max ½ an hour).
2. Quoting
Our job is to give you the best advice in order that you spend as little money as possible on your renovation, and profit as much as possible at the same time. Though we can give you ball park figures of what costs to expect, it is your job to obtain quotations from a project manager or builders, electricians, plumbers, painters and any other trades you may require. It is good practise to tell each trade exactly what you are planning to do in all areas of the property, just in case it affects their scope of work (and ultimately the quote they give you).
The last thing you want is for one persons work to affect another's without all costs being accounted for. For example, you are replacing a bathroom vanity and you think you only need to advise the plumber who will be fitting the unit and connecting the pipe-work. What if the unit has a smaller 'footprint' than its predecessor? This will affect the floor (affecting the flooring contractors' price) and the wall (affecting the painters'/tilers'/builders' price). This is a simple example but illustrates the need for you to be specific and clear to all those involved.
3. Furniture sourcing and selection
Hotspace is all about the 'hard fit-out' (as opposed to soft fit-out) changes that can be made to a property. Hard fit-out refers to the structure of the building - the building work, painting, electrical/lighting, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring etc. The soft fit-out refers to the furniture, artwork, plants and effects that 'dress' a house.
We are absolute fanatics about dressing property for sale and have seen too many outstanding results (high sell prices) from well furnished properties, to ever suggest otherwise. For rental properties that will be furnished, be sure to buy furniture that is good quality, easily cleanable and as timeless in design as possible.