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Getting mains water and electricity
connected isn’t as simple as making a phone call and in
most cases can mean a lengthy and costly planning
application, delaying the start of renovation works by
months and sometimes years.”
Choosing a property in a slightly better
condition with utilities already connected can save you
thousands in the longer term and mean renovation work
can begin as soon as you have decided on the finished
design.
Avoiding properties requiring planning
permission also means you can save money on the
renovation work, carrying out some of the less skilled
jobs yourselves. However even if you choose to bring in
the professionals it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
Deciding to employ a builder in Portugal
doesn’t have to be financially painful. There is a
wealth of skilled tradesmen available and despite the
fall in the exchange rate, they charge a fraction of the
cost of their UK counterparts. Reputable builders can
charge as little as 10€ an hour with labourers earning
around 8€ an hour.
Generally the quality of workmanship in
Portugal is very high, but it is important if you do
decide to employ outside help, to get at least three
quotes from reputable builders as well as references
from previous clients. Being able to inspect jobs they
have carried out will also give you peace of mind on the
quality of your finish.
When using builders get a
signed contract
Getting your lawyer to draw up a contract
with the builder you decide to use is not only a good
idea, but will put paid to any demands for extra money
and allow a clear method of stage payments for the each
section of the work as it is carried out.
Checking out local builders merchants and
DIY supermarkets is a good way of ensuring you are not
being over charged for goods by builders and it will
help you decide on the finished specifications of your
property.
Remembering not to get carried away on
the renovation work is also imperative. Taking into
account the possible resale value of the property,
thinking carefully about what you want to achieve during
your design period will help you budget accordingly.
Common mistakes made during some property renovations
are adding expensive features, which don’t necessary add
value to the property.
If you are not going to be present in
Portugal for the duration of the renovation work, but
hundreds of miles away in the United Kingdom it is worth
investing a little of your budget employing a project
manager.
Although it may not be a cost you
initially think about, it is well worth spending a
little extra on a project manager who can oversee the
job on a day-to-day or week-to-week basis, reporting
back to you frequently to ensure works are carried out
on time and to your specification. In the long run this
can save you undue heartache and sleepless nights.
So if you want a home in Portugal and are
willing to tackle a renovation project, now is the time
to do it. Property prices in Portugal may be stable, but
owners are keenly aware of the world wide economic
climate and room for negotiation even on cheaper
properties is more likely and you could bag your self a
bargain, which you and your family can enjoy designing
and renovating. |
