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Love it or List It NZ: How to make $50k stretch to a new kitchen, bathroom and deck
TV series Love it or List it tackles a tiny home unit at the Mount
AI summary
A recent Love it or List It NZ episode featured a Mount Maunganui couple deciding between renovating their small unit or buying a new home. With a tight $50,000 budget, designer Alex Walls delivered a stunning transformation, including a new kitchen, bathroom, and a large, secure deck.
Agent Paul Glover presented larger homes in Tauranga, but the couple ultimately chose to "Love It." The renovation increased their property's value by $100,000, a result significantly aided by show sponsorships.
Meet Lani and Tom Hardy who live in this 75m² brick-and-tile unit at Mount Maunganui with daughter Della. But it’s not working for them.
Before: The open-plan living area looked very cramped, and the kitchen overhead cupboards opened into the lounge.
Lani and Tom are pictured on the new deck with agent Paul Glover (left) and designer Alex Walls (right).
Here are the numbers
After: The carpet has been replaced with a hardwood laminate floor; the hall door has been moved out of the kitchen, and the space looks a lot bigger.
And this is the real magic - a window seat that doubles as dining seating and storage.
First house, Matua, $800,000
And this is the first house they are shown, in Matua, Tauranga. It was listed for $800,000 and looks like it could be a winner.
A huge new deck is laid over the original concrete patio.
Second house, Greerton, $715,000
The second house, in Greerton, is a lot more modern, but somewhat dated inside.
There is plenty to like about the first Greerton house.
Third house, Greerton, $765,000
It’s a solid 1950s bungalow they are shown next. It’s great inside, but the outdoor living area is too enclosed and surrounded by neighbours.
The big reveal
The new galley-style kitchen will be a lot more functional. A full set of Bosch appliances was included in the upgrade.
The original block wall was covered over for a much more modern look.
The bathroom upgrade included tumbled tiles around the bath and in the shower.
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