How you can make money from your renovation or demolition
If you’re planning a major renovation or rebuild of a home, then it’s likely that there’s going to be a whole lot of materials, such as timber, steel, doors and windows, that are going to be pulled out and sent to landfill. But did you know that taking the time to salvage some of the materials you don’t want or need could actually make you money?
Selling salvaged goods is big business, particularly if you’re the proud owner of federation-style windows and doors, original leadlights, ornate fire surrounds, vintage bricks, floorboards and rusted roof sheeting.
In fact, Cameron Little of Home Demolitions told Domain that he has seen popular demand grow for rusted or damaged roof sheeting and weathered timbers as they’re being used to create rustic looks in interiors and businesses.
“The cost per metre of rusted roof sheeting with holes and damage is three times what it costs brand new,” Cameron told Domain. “This trend is convenient because metal recyclers are governed by a lot of levies and, given the sheer volume of roof sheeting, they won’t accept [the sheeting] because it costs them money to recycle.”
Cameron told the real estate company that vintage or unique features in homes that are no longer in production (such as windows, doors, and other decorative features) can be worth a pretty penny to the right buyers. Other valuable materials worth salvaging include modern fixtures and fittings, aluminium windows, kitchens and the associated appliances, bathroom fixtures, split-system air conditioners, hot-water units, pool fencing, ceiling fans and light fittings.
How to sell salvaged goods
Feel free to advertise your items on Gumtree, eBay and Facebook groups to make extra money from your salvaged goods. However, for more niche products, it’s worthwhile calling in a local salvage operator so they can evaluate what you have.
How much money can you make?
If you’re doing a serious renovation or demolition, you could make anywhere from $1000 to $10,000 in profits, depending on the property and what other items you may have.
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