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“As a professional builder myself, I know first hand that a client who’s thoroughly prepared can make the difference between a job that goes well and one that doesn’t. Reading this book is a great start in the right direction, for any consumer about to start a home renovation.” Luke Van Dyck, third generation builder and TV presenter.

"One of the largest single outlays, most of us make (second only to buying the house) is the renovation. Most of us go into it with enthusiasm and vigour but not much experience or understanding of what is required. I needed this book prior to renovation and I think all renovators should read it before they start - even before they go to the bank to discuss the amount to borrow!" Ann Sherry AO, CEO Carnival Australia, ex-CEO Bank of Melbourne and Westpac (NZ)

By The Sunday Age."Renovation is the great Australian sport. It is also fraught with peril. A term wellknown to lawyers and real estate agents is "renovator's divorce" - from spouse, builders and large amounts of money. Falconer experienced the renovation from hell, and survived to write about it. She also collected similar tales of woe and created this guide to stress-free renovation. She talked to all sides, from lawyers to building inspectors, and her book is exhaustive but user-friendly. The approach is to pinpoint what can go wrong and try to avoid it. She advises educating yourself in the process beforehand, getting expert advice and being assertive. Devious courtesy also has its place. The neighbours might lodge an objection with council? Hold a wine and cheese night for them. Recommended for anyone considering renovation."

I've decided that renovating is a bit like having a baby or rescuing a new dog. There's almost as much pain and just like new mothers, renovators want to talk and talk, and then talk some more about their renovations. Sometimes non-renovating friends become a little bit bored. If you want to share with other renovators, as well as ask all the questions that seem to arise along the way, then why not join the free RENOVATION COMMUNITY.