23 Feb How to Start Planning your Extension

It’s been almost a year since the first Covid-19 lock down was enforced and we are all learning to live with being at home more than we have been used to in the past. Whether you are currently furloughed or working from home on a semi-permanent basis, as a nation we have been spending far more time in our homes than we ever have.

Naturally, when you spend an extended period of time in one place, you start finding faults with it. Maybe your home needs redecorating? Maybe, with the whole family being home at the same time, things are starting to feel a little cramped and you need to make some more space in your home.

Instead of moving, many people decide to invest in their current property, adding habitable space in order to accommodate their increasing needs. This can be quite a daunting task if you don’t have the relevant experience. Let’s take a look at where to start; and remember, if you would like to speak about extending your home, give us a call on 01753 392 410 or email us.

Getting started

Sounds simple, but often knowing where to start can be the hardest part of the process. The best way to attack this is by dividing it up into smaller pieces and dealing with one aspect at a time – get yourself a notepad!

Just like this:

Conceptualise

This is a fancy word for sitting down and deliberating about what you need and why. Now that you’ve decided that you’re not going to move home in order to find more space, it’s time to have a think about what you can do with your property, who is the space for and what needs to go in this space to improve your lifestyle.

Identify

What is it you are looking to achieve? Do you want a loft conversion or simple single storey room? Are you extending the kitchen, adding a bathroom or bedroom? If you still can’t find enough space, will you need to consider a double storey extension! This is more complicated, require planning permission and be more expensive.

Research

For inspiration, maybe take a look at what neighbouring properties have done. Property portals are a good place to start – you can take a look at the properties that have sold recently and how they have configured their home. Read up on what kind of extension you would like and possible costs; this will help you to budget for your project and present an opportunity to crystallise some ideas.

Finances

Once you have shortlisted the things you’d like to do with your home, it’s time to obtain a professional opinion. We can provide you with a free, no obligation quote and help you upgrade your existing home. We’ll walk through the various options and alternatives to help you get the best out of your property, whilst ensuring the whole process is cost-effective for you.

Engage

The final part of the process in getting started with your extension is to engage with an architect. Someone who is able to create the working technical drawings which will enable a building contractor as well as other sub-contractors (electricians, plumbers etc.) to complete the project.

These are all things that we can carry out for you. Our vast network is made up of trusted and skilled building professionals with whom we have longstanding relationships. It has taken many years to create this network to ensure that our projects are completed to the highest standards.

Get in Touch

If you would like to schedule in a call to talk about your property options and how to build your dream home, please contact us on 01753 392 410 or email us. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn – we would love to hear from you.