An extension is a great way to add space to your home. Whether you go up into the roof, down into the basement or out into the garden, it will open up the house. As your family grows, you need a house that can suit everybody. You might require an extra bedroom for the little ones. Perhaps you need a quiet study area, or just a second living room. Whatever you require, an extension might be just what you need.
As well as extra room, you stand to add thousands to your house price. If you’ve got one eye on the property market, an extension will bump up your value. You’re likely to make a tidy profit if you get it right. An extension will add space and light to a home and significantly improve its resale potential. With that in mind, how exactly do you get started? Today we’ll share a few questions you ought to ask yourself before getting stuck in.
Why type of extension is best suited to your property?
There are a number of options when it comes to extensions. Each requires their own level of work, planning and costs. There are benefits to each, and of course they all have their downsides. The most common extension is the loft conversion. It is often a fairly straight forward job and can add the most value. You can use skylights to add extra lights and squeeze in a bedroom and an en suite. You could look to the basement. Even if you don’t have one, the foundations can be dug to fit one. Remember, you’ll struggle with natural light and damp with this route, but it can work wonders. You could build an entirely new structure into the garden space too. Finally, there’s the garage conversion route. This one is perhaps the most simple.
Do you need planning permission?
You don’t usually need planning permission for a loft conversion or basement conversion. With these extensions, you won’t alter the look or shape of the property. However, it’s always worth checking with the local authorities. There will be permits and permissions needed for building work regardless. If you’re extending outwards, chances are that planning permission will be required.
What’s your budget?
As with any building project, the budget is a high priority. It’s really important that you set a realistic number, with every cost built in from the start. It’s an unwritten rule that building work almost always goes over budget! Contact suppliers early and get quotes for equipment and building materials. Account for everything from the Channel steel bar to every last screw and nail! Try to work in an emergency fund for any problems that may occur too.
Will you bring in contractors or DIY?
Finally, ask yourself whether you could take on much of the project yourself. It will certainly help cut costs, but only if you’re confident in the task. Some of the structural alterations are best left to the experts. However, everything else is yours for the taking!
An extension is a fantastic way to open up the space in your home. It will give your family room to grow and you’ll add thousands to your property price. Let’s get the sledgehammer out and get started!