Budget-Friendly Renovations to Keep Your Home Cosy This Autumn

Summer’s over, and autumn is here with its crisp air and cooler days. Now’s the perfect time to get your home ready for winter. You don’t need to spend a lot to keep your place warm and comfy without driving up your energy bills.

As we trade in beach days for cosy nights in sweaters, it’s a great moment to focus on making your home winter-ready.

A few simple, budget-friendly renovations can help you create a warm, snug environment that keeps your heating costs down. 

Here are three easy ideas to get started:

1. Block the Cold and Retain the Heat

Did you know that up to 25% of heat loss in winter can come from draughts, or “air leakage”? It's a small thing, but fixing those cold air leaks can have a significant impact on the warmth of your home.

One of the most cost-effective ways to seal in heat is to check for gaps around your doors and windows. You can start by installing door seals to keep chilly drafts at bay. 

Energy Australia recommends adding door seals and using waterproof caulking to seal up gaps around windows and skirting boards.

2. Reassess Your Heating Options

Once your home is sealed up against draughts, it’s a good time to rethink your heating setup.

Heating and cooling are the biggest energy users in most Aussie homes, making up around 40% of total energy use—so choosing the right system can really save you money.

If you’re still using that old electric bar heater, it might be time for an upgrade. According to YourHome, reverse-cycle air-conditioners are the most energy-efficient option for both heating and cooling, no matter the energy source.

Even an air condition model with just 2 or 3 energy stars can cost less to run than many other heating appliances.

3. Insulate Your Home for All-Year Comfort

We’re all familiar with the concept of bundling up in layers of clothing to stay warm during winter. Well, the same concept applies to your home. Adding insulation is like wrapping your house in a cosy blanket—helping it stay warm in winter and cool in summer.

According to consumer group CHOICE, about one-third of a home’s heat can be lost through the roof if it’s not insulated. If you're working with a tight budget, insulating the roof cavity is a good first step. 

However, if you have a bit more room to manoeuvre, consider installing insulation on your floors, walls, and ceilings to achieve even greater energy savings.

How to Manage the Costs of These Improvements

While small home improvements can be quite affordable, sometimes you might need to invest in larger-scale renovations to make a noticeable difference. If that’s the case, don’t worry—you may already have access to the funds you need through your current home loan.

Refinancing your mortgage could be another way to free up equity and make your renovation goals more achievable. Or, if you’re after something more flexible, a personal loan might be the right fit for smaller updates or quick fixes.

Alternatively, options like a construction loan or renovation loan could be a great way to finance more significant upgrades. At Osinski Finance, we specialise in helping clients navigate these financing options to ensure that your dream home is within reach. 

Whether you need a little extra funding for a new heater or are planning a full-scale renovation, we’re here to help you make your home as cosy as possible this winter.

Contact us today to discuss your home renovation options and find the best financial solution for your project.

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