Renovating on a Small Budget: Tips for Savvy Savers

A renovation can improve the living experience, increase energy efficiency, and significantly enhance the property value. However, especially in times of high construction costs and limited financial leeway, many people ask themselves: How can you sensibly renovate on a small budget without compromising on quality? How you can avoid typical cost traps and save real money with personal contribution and subsidies - we have gathered practical tips for efficient renovations.

1. Good Planning is Half the Saving

Before you even pick up a brush, a well-thought-out plan should be in place. Because those who start renovating without a plan risk quickly exceeding their budget or having to redo work.

So create a priority list: Which tasks are urgently needed (e.g., mold removal, electrical work)? What can be postponed or implemented cheaply (e.g., new wall paint instead of a complete renovation)? A renovation diary can also help keep track. Additionally, comparing offers is worthwhile. Obtain at least three quotes, as the price difference can be significant, especially for more extensive professional work like heating or window replacement.

A practical checklist is offered, for example, by the housing finance experts at Infina or the DIY portal diybook.at.

2. Save Real Money with Personal Contribution

Those who are skilled in crafts – or want to become so – can save a lot on renovations with personal contribution. Even simple tasks like removing wallpaper, painting, renewing silicone joints, or laying flooring can be easily and often cheaply done with some preparation. If unsure, you can browse online tutorials or DIY forums, and hardware stores like OBI, Bauhaus, Hornbach, or Lagerhaus also offer tool rental and advice – often cheaper than a craftsman.

3. Big Effects with Smaller Measures

Not every renovation has to turn into a major construction site. Often, small touches, new furniture, textiles and decorations, or cleaning work are enough to give your home a new shine. This applies to both apartments and houses.

Does the kitchen really need to be completely replaced? New handles, adhesive films for fronts, or a new countertop can turn an old kitchen into a modern gem. The same goes for the bathroom: Replacing fixtures and silicone joints or new patterns thanks to (tenant-friendly) adhesive tiles often work wonders. A new coat of paint is also easy to implement - because fresh paint on the walls immediately changes rooms.

4. Take Advantage of Grants and Subsidies

Especially for energy-efficient renovations, there are numerous funding opportunities in Austria, both from the federal government and the states. The funding conditions vary depending on the region, household income, and the scope of the measures.

Detailed information on financial support for renovation and refurbishment is available on the Transparency Portal. There you will find a comprehensive overview of the funding landscape in Austria. Important: An application should always be made before the start of the work.

5. Observe Legal Aspects - Especially in Rental Apartments

Renovating not only requires craftsmanship and good budget management – legal frameworks also play a central role, especially when it comes to rental properties or apartments in a condominium association.

Clear boundaries apply in a rental apartment. In principle, so-called "simple cosmetic repairs" can be carried out without the landlord's consent. These include:

However, if you want to make structural changes, such as laying new flooring (e.g., parquet instead of carpet), moving walls, or renewing sanitary or electrical installations, written permission from the landlord is required in any case. Otherwise, you risk not only an obligation to restore the original condition but, in the worst case, early termination or bearing the costs for any damages incurred. Tip: Even for approved renovations, you should document the consent, preferably in the form of a supplementary contract or a written agreement via email or letter.

Condominiums, on the other hand, offer more design freedom – but not unlimited. In a condominium association, many measures are subject to the Condominium Act (WEG), as explained by the Tenants' Association:

A common example: Replacing old windows or installing externally visible air conditioning units almost always requires majority approval from the owners' meeting – often even a unanimous decision. The property management is your first point of contact here. Clarify in advance whether and to what extent renovations are permissible and whether resolutions are required.

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