5 Design Mistakes New Property Investors Make (That Cost Them Thousands)

Introduction

Thinking of adding a granny flat, subdividing, or renovating a rental?

Property investment isn’t just about buying cheap and building fast — poor planning and design mistakes can eat away your profit or trap you in council delays.

This quick guide outlines 5 mistakes new investors make that cost money, time, or future resale value — and how you can avoid them.

The Mistakes

1: Designing Without an Exit Strategy

Many new investors design for today — not for sale, rental, or refinance tomorrow.
Tip: Design with valuation in mind. Prioritise legal room sizes, dual access layouts, and compliance that banks and buyers trust.

2: Ignoring Planning Restrictions

Not every lot can take a granny flat or second dwelling — setbacks, open space, and overlays can block your plans.
Tip: Get a planning check before you design. A quick feasibility report can save you months.

3: Overspending on Non-Essential Features

Many first-time investors burn cash on oversized kitchens, fancy finishes, or overbuilt bathrooms — that don’t add value to rent or sale.
Tip: Invest where it returns: separate entries, extra storage, minimum compliance sizes. Avoid ego-building.

4: Using Cheap Drafters Without Compliance Knowledge

Plans drawn by someone without NCC or R-Codes experience might be cheaper — until council rejects them.
Tip: Always work with a qualified building designer who knows local regulations, and can prepare drawings ready for approval.

5: Poor Layout for Tenant or Buyer Use

Bad flow, dark rooms, or awkward bathrooms kill rental yield and resale.
Tip: Maximise light, privacy, and storage. Small upgrades in layout lead to big value at the bank or the open home.

Next Step – Start with a Feasibility Consultation

Not sure if your property can take a second dwelling, new layout, or value uplift?

Tay Bui Arch Studio offers a paid Site Inspection & Briefing to help you:

✅ Check zoning, setbacks & constraints
✅ Get practical layout advice
✅ Receive a short report outlining what’s possible

Fee: $299 (credited if you proceed with full design)

👉 Book today at taybuiarch.com.au/contact or email tay.bui@taybuiarch.com.au