Real estate expert Andrew Winter and landscaper Dennis Scott have launched a new renovation series aimed at demonstrating that home improvements can be achieved on a budget. The duo purchased a property known as ‘Betty’s Place’, located in Bellbird Park, approximately 30 kilometers from Brisbane’s central business district. Their journey will be documented on YouTube, exploring the real costs associated with renovating a home in 2026.
In a statement, Winter expressed his desire to understand the feasibility of renovating on a modest budget, stating, “I’ve seen some enormous budgets thrown at houses — sometimes wisely, sometimes not.” He emphasized the importance of making careful decisions and incorporating “honest work, sweat equity, patience, and compromise” rather than relying on unlimited financial resources.
The property, characterized as a small, ordinary three-bedroom house, is not glamorous but possesses “good bones” according to Winter. He aims to transform it from a one-bathroom to a four-bedroom, two-bathroom residence without overspending. “It’s definitely worth saving, but how will we save it?” he questioned, highlighting the challenge ahead.
Documenting the Renovation Journey
The first episode of their series has already been released, where the duo shares various renovation tips and tricks. Winter revealed that he consulted an architect to modify the existing floor plan, a cost-effective alternative to adding extensions or performing a complete remodel. “I said I need four bedrooms, two bathrooms — that is the cheapest, most viable way of doing it, and she came up with a plan,” he said, advocating for the value of working with architects.
To facilitate the renovation, they plan to open up the enclosed kitchen. Scott recommended maintaining the existing plumbing and electrical layouts to save costs. “Then, straight away you’re saving money,” Scott noted. They are also opting for a flatpack kitchen instead of a custom-designed one, which will help reduce expenses significantly.
In terms of expanding the home’s functionality, the pair intends to convert the separate laundry into a second bathroom, preserving the plumbing connections. While neither bathroom will be an en suite, they believe that having two bathrooms will enhance the property’s value.
Future Prospects and Insights
The renovation project at Betty’s Place serves as a case study for homeowners looking to improve their properties without breaking the bank. Winter, also known for his role as a property expert for Compare the Market and as a host of Selling Houses Australia, aims to provide accessible insights into the renovation process.
As they embark on this journey, Winter and Scott seek to inspire everyday Australians by showing that smart and well-planned renovations are achievable within a reasonable budget. The publication of their findings and experiences is expected to resonate with a wide audience, particularly those considering renovations in the current economic climate.
With the initial episode now available, viewers can anticipate regular updates as Winter and Scott navigate the challenges of their renovation journey. Their commitment to proving that budget renovations can work is set to capture the attention of home improvement enthusiasts and potential renovators alike.
