The restrictions put in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic have meant many of us around the globe have had to endure drastic lifestyle changes. One of the most significant changes the pandemic has demanded of us is an increasing amount of time spent in our own homes.
Whilst spending more time inside our own properties, many of us have had time for reflection and realisation. We might now only be realising that the space we inhabit isn’t big enough to meet our desires and our needs. And whilst we love our property and location, adding something extra would benefit our lifestyle.
With the new year approaching, many of us are considering the changes we hope 2021 will bring. We will be using the lessons learnt and experiences endured during this tumultuous year to make progressive and practical changes in our lives.
For you, this might mean developing your property to be more in line with what the world currently demands of you; adding more space to reflect the increase in time spent inside. Adding an extension to your existing property is a great way to add space, economic value, and design a home that suits you.
Planning and building an extension is a big job, and there are important things that you need to think about before beginning the project. Here are five things to consider when planning an extension.
What’s It Going To Cost?
Adding an extension to your property isn’t cheap. It’s important that you ensure you’re getting the most for your money, and that you’re able to finance the project. Many well-established construction companies will provide free online quotations for their services, meaning you can get started on your planning straight away. Think about how you will finance the project, are you going to use savings? Will you have to borrow money in the form of a loan? Or, are you going to remortgage/refinance the property? Make sure you research who is providing the best rates for the materials and services you will need. Consider and analyse all your options before concluding what is the most viable option for you and your project.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
It’s important to know if you need planning permission to build on your property or the surrounding areas. If you plan to extend into the loft of your property, you usually do not require planning permission. However, if your conversion exceeds the premises, you will be required to seek planning permission. Make sure to contact your local authorities to find out if your extension plans are permitted.
Are Your Contractors Trusted And Reliable?
Building an extension is a big project, and it’s going to take an extensive amount of time. It is essential that you higher trusted and reliable contractors. Make sure you research the workers you’re hiring; look at online reviews, view their previous work, and make your needs clear.
Where Are You Going To Source Your Materials?
It’s good to have an understanding of the materials you’ll need to build your extension. A project this large is going to require numerous materials. Make sure you find out what you need for the infrastructure, as well as your interior choices. The excerpts from reozone.com.au suggest you look for companies that can assist you in sourcing the right materials for the foundation of your extension. If the materials aren’t good enough, then you can’t really hope for the best results.
What Is The Design Of Your Extension?
Make sure your extension design is practical and pleasing. You want to ensure your extension provides the space you need, whilst also being an admired addition to the building. Whether you’re hiring an experienced architect or designing the new space yourself, make sure you have a comprehensive plan that everyone is on board with.
This year we’ve been able to reflect on the things that truly matter to us. We now know the importance of a functional and enjoyable exterior space on our interior wellbeing. We don’t know what 2021 will bring, but we know that many of the changes 2020 brought will be a part of our society for a long time. Whether we’ll be spending as much time indoors in the new year remains unknown. What we do know is the value of occupying a space we feel content in.
If you’re not satisfied with your surroundings, there are several great resources and company’s ready and waiting to help you build and convert the property of your dreams. Don’t rush your decisions; research, plan and source the perfect people and materials for your extension. Make sure you consider all five factors before planning your project begins.
