First time renovators, Krystal and Aaron Schreder bought their ‘needs lots of love’ Bundamba home in June 2010.

Aaron works in sales for a dairy processing and trading company. Krystal works part time for the same firm, as well as being a proud stay at home mum, who loves baking, creating and cake decorating.

When they began their house hunting journey, they were looking for a Queenslander which had ‘character, soul and history’. After searching all over Ipswich, it was ‘love at first sight’ when they found their new abode. 

“It was exciting,” Krystal said. “We could imagine what we could make it into and knew it would be a beautiful family home to raise our kids in and share memories. 

“It was a feeling of a new chapter for us. We were not long engaged and preparing for a future wedding in March 2011. 

“We spent weekend after weekend going to open homes to find the right house for us. 

“We fell in love with the beautiful coloured glass windows that let so much light into the house. 

“And the big backyard that we knew would be great for our future children and ‘fur kids’.”

After years of saving, planning and becoming parents to two children, the couple embarked on their renovation journey in February 2019.

As the major part of the build was finished in May, the couple took matters into their own hands painting by themselves, designing the kitchen, sourcing and purchasing fixtures along with tiles and paint colours as well as assembling 250 flat packs.

Picturing their future goal, Krystal said they had planned to begin renovating a long time ago, however the biggest challenge was starting the entire process. Obtaining quotes and finding the right tradesmen in order to achieve what they had in mind alongside their budget, was far more difficult than they had thought. Once they found the right people for the job however, Krystal said everything began to fall into place. 

“Once we found them it was pretty smooth sailing. We were very fortunate we found skilled and friendly tradies who worked toward our vision but also gave us some great suggestions and allowed us to change things on the fly when needed.”

Yet, despite the challenges, Krystal said they wouldn’t change the experience for the world. 

“There is a feeling of accomplishment and we are proud of the home we have created. 

“I’m a big baker and love to cook and nourish my family and friends, so the design of the kitchen was to make it the centre of the home, where we can come together each morning and night and discuss our days and debrief.”

Although the experience has been a rollercoaster ride – Krystal and Aaron, now have the perfect home to share with their 7-year-old son Hunter, their 5-year-old daughter Frankie and their two boxers, Ella and Lewis.

Krystal and Aaron's tips

Krystal and Aaron Schreder said they wouldn’t change the process they went through in the renovation of their Bundamba home and have offered their own top tips for anyone willing to embark on such an adventure. 

Have an end goal.

A vision is always paramount and make sure to consider the layout and room placement of the house in its current state. Appreciate the functionality of each room for what it is and minimise moving any plumbing to ensure you can keep the costs down. 

Budget, budget, budget! 

Renovations can be a stretch at the best of times however know your limits and take the time to shop around for fittings and fixtures. If you are set on your design early you can buy in advance to get the best deals and prices.

Spend the time to find good tradies. 

For Aaron and Krystal, it’s all about looking locally as well as treating your tradies with respect. That way, they’ll do the same back to you and appreciate your project greatly.

Talk to the bank/broker. 

Early on in the process, construction loans can be difficult to finalise. Be sure to make a connection with the bank and your broker from day one. 

Do as much as you can yourself. 

This, of course can save your pocket from too much harm if you think wisely about what you can and cannot do. For Aaron and Krystal however, they recommend that you keep in mind your own limitations during the process. 

Don’t rush your design choices.

Design is an interesting concept and a decision that can make or break the look of your entire house. Take your time in this area, work out what it is you would like to achieve and make sure to check out options that will age well.

Have a set timeline.

Timelines are helpful and push you toward your goal however if we can use 2020 as an example, it’s clear plans can be turned upside down at the drop of a hat, so the couple suggest that you expect delays. Always be prepared for any unknowns and keep a buffer in your budget. 

Be prepared to live uncomfortably during the process. 

Be prepared to undertake extensive hard work, changing timelines and a dusty house. For Krystal and Aaron, they used their laundry as their kitchen for three weeks, so be sure to factor in unusual circumstances. 

Communicate with your partner/kids. 

Communication is key in every concept of the word however especially so during a renovation. A reno job can be both a stressful and tiring process, so make sure to keep up valid conversations with your loved ones about how you are feeling. Take valuable time out if you can.

Enjoy the process.

Take the time to enjoy the work you are creating, after all, you may only do it once.

With a rear deck in progress and plans to install an outdoor barbeque and living area, the couple are almost at the end of their project now and are looking forward to sitting back and enjoying their new home.  

“It’s hard work. Aaron and I would be putting the kids to bed then be up all night painting or prepping for the days ahead. 

“But we are very thankful for the wonderful kids we have and how patient they were with us along the reno journey. 

“We really loved the journey. Creating something that was suited just for us and what our needs are.”

“We love what we have created, it suits us and our family.”