THE design of new developments have a significant role in the decision-making process of property buyers, however many owners corporations remain unaware of the impact design features have on the ongoing maintenance fees of a building.

It’s assumed that the more shared facilities in an owners corporation, the more you will have to spend on fees for cleaning, repairs and utilities. Also, a big misconception is that pools, lifts and gyms are the biggest culprits for increasing costs, but a swimming pool in a body corporate with 100 lots can cost as little as $1.50 each lot a week. It’s when you start adding adjoining shower and toilet facilities that you start to notice the affect.

Very few people also consider the bricks and mortar. Generally, brick and stone walls require less maintenance than timber or concrete walls, because they don’t require painting or resealing.

In new developments, you’ll alsonotice carpet being replaced with tile, concrete, hardwood and stone, all of which have a much longer

Design key to savings

lifespan and require less cleaning. Outside, hardwood is a popular

choice for walkways and decking, and while it’s considered a premium building material, it risks splinters, warping and rotting, and will generally need to be resealed annually.

To keep costs to a minimum, findout how outdoor areas will be maintained. If there’s lawn, ask if there’s an irrigation system that will help to reduce water costs and labour.

Gravel and paving instead of lawn will save you time and money on cutting and watering, while native plants will require the least amount of upkeep.

There’s also the issue of insurance. Timber structure systems, for instance, are an emerging trend among builders and developers because they’re a low-cost and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional concrete builds.

However, timber structures incur higher insurance premiums, which is passed on to owners.

Greg Nash is the chief executive ofPICA Group, Australia’s leading property services company, which manages more than 220,000 lots.

GREG NASH

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

TIPS FORDESIGN FEATURES

n Timber decking: Synonymous with Australian outdoor living, timber decking looks good but will require cleaning, oiling and regular repair all year round. Timber decking around a standard backyard pool, for instance, can cost anywhere between $7,000 to $10,000 a year to maintain.

n Gardens: Every garden requires some care. A moderate-sized garden will cost up to $20,000 a year. If a shared outdoor living area is a must on your property wish list, opt for a higher ratio of hardscape to garden.

n Bathroom amenities: They’re a convenience for larger complexes, but it’s worth noting that a single toilet and shower will cost, on average, an additional $8,000 a year to maintain.

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Tiles, concrete, hardwood and stone are replacing carpets in many homes.Picture: istock

18 SUNBURY LEADER, Tuesday, May 23, 2017 SRVE01Z01MA - V1

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Build now, and prepare for the futureAssisting developers to enhance community living for owners corporations

The PICA Group is one of the country’s largest property services companies, with a specialist team who can provide you with the technical expertise and advice around successfully setting up, managing and maintaining owners corporations.

Some of the key services we offer are:

• Guidance on current and emerging best practices

• Preparation of a draft budget and levies/fees

• Guidance on project configuration and owner responsibility

• By-law and rule reviews

• Tender management

• Fast-track issuing of settlement certificates