In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
It is very difficult to give an estimate on the average cost per square metre as it depends on finishes and also the difficulties and problems found in the case of a renovation/restoration. Anyway, a word of warning, some people underestimate what those renovations are going to cost. It is much better to make a realistic estimate, even one in the high levels, and then, whatever you can save is a bonus....
But, most important, everyone should think twice before buying a building up for renovation and should get some expert advice on it.
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
The wonderful part of being in Italy is that good quality building work seems to be normal (the phrase Italian Master Builder conjures up memories from somewhere). Good quality finishes from tiles to kitchens are available at reasonable cost if (as deborahandricky said) you ask around. There is no substitute for being here and being involved.
Gala, your point about underestimating is all too common. Being a prudent (?stingy?) person I said if the move worked on double the cost and half the income we should be OK. It has worked out roughly that way!
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
"moved to italiauncovered.co.uk"
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
The figures quoted appear in the right ballpark, but there are substantial regional variations, e.g Chianti versus Abruzzo, and of course the standard of finishing. However, one element of the cost schedule which can send Sq.m calculations astray is the roof: does is need replacing?. Mine did and it set me back 50k on a 300 sq.m house- adding almost E200 to the sq.m cost. Those quoting such calculations really ought to specify the presence/absence of the roof factor. All in all, I have spent about E900 per Sq.m. If anyone is in need of a good, honest and reliable team of builders in the South Umbria area let me know.
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
[quote=timwills;94457]The wonderful part of being in Italy is that good quality building work seems to be normal (the phrase Italian Master Builder conjures up memories from somewhere). Good quality finishes from tiles to kitchens are available at reasonable cost if (as deborahandricky said) you ask around. There is no substitute for being here and being involved.
Gala, your point about underestimating is all too common. Being a prudent (?stingy?) person I said if the move worked on double the cost and half the income we should be OK. It has worked out roughly that way![/quote]
I do so agree about the quality of Italian contractors. Fair enough, they may have Albanian and Moroccan staff working for them, but not only are the contractors usually totally above board, they do a very good job, and supervise (also educate) their workers. The disasters (and the rip-offs) so frequently occur when Brits use 'Bob the Builder' 'cos he speaka their lingo.
I also appreciate your economic fundamentals (concisley described as expect double the cost and half the income!) - Micawberish - but happy.
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
"moved to italiauncovered.co.uk"
In reply to A newbie all over again! by Annec
[quote=AdamInNarni;94518] However, one element of the cost schedule which can send Sq.m calculations astray is the roof: does is need replacing?. Mine did and it set me back 50k on a 300 sq.m house- adding almost E200 to the sq.m cost. Those quoting such calculations really ought to specify the presence/absence of the roof factor. [/quote]
...and then how much needs to be done to the roof.
We needed insulation but we were lucky. The existing tiles were removed, the insulation laid on the existing cement roof, sealed and the tiles replaces. €26,000 for a 316 m2 roof.
There are, as is often stated, so many variables, however it is unusual for someone to replace everything to the highest standard or at the other extreme to get everything at a rock-bottom price. Somehow we are coming to a rough idea of an average!
It is so good to see the positive experiences. It is hard to see those who have been taken advantage of....
Hi Tim
Even though we have finished our house, our Geometra still pops in from time to time, to check on things, and have a chat.
On a recent visit we got talking about costs etc and he came up with a figure between 1000 and 1250 per m2.
He went on to say that we was hearing figures of 1200 to 1550 from builders etc.
One reason for this is the increased costs of materials.
Its a rod that we have made for our own backs, asking for authentic tiles etc there just are not enough to go round.
If anybody is looking for these type of things , its well worth asking on here or around the local Brit community as everyone has odds and ends sitting the garden.
As an example, a friend asked me recently were they could get hold of 60 of ceiling tiles, as he had been quoted 2.50e from the local brick yard.....I did a quick call around and another friend let them have them for 1e each.
Getting to know the local people and this forum are great for this type of thing.