6 tips for your next home extension
Are you considering expanding your home? Prime Design can help you determine what’s possible and the best options available for your property. Here are six key factors to consider before you begin:
1. Budget
Adding an extension can be expensive, so it’s crucial to have a realistic budget in mind before beginning any construction. It is important to have all the background research done ahead of time to minimise any surprises that may occur that may exceed your budget. Sometimes there are unexpected costs. It is important to include a contingency within your budget just in case an unexpected expense occurs. You may also need to factor in costs for alternative accommodation during construction, depending on the extent of the proposed extension work. If you’re on a tight budget, adding an extension may not be the most cost-effective solution.
2. Permits and Regulations
You may need to obtain permits and comply with local regulations before starting any construction work. There may be restrictions on your block which may affect your ability to do an extension. For example, there may be size restrictions on how big your house can be. You may not be able to build your extension if it is outside of the allocated building envelope on the property. There may be areas you cannot build due to easements or other services that may require easy access such as electrical or plumbing. A Building Designer or Architect will be able to guide you on what regulations and permits affect the extension. Alternatively, you may also wish to contact your local council.
3. Functionality
Consider the purpose of the extension, whether it’s to create more living space or add value to your home. It’s important that the extension will suit your needs and desires and what you would like to achieve. Considerations such as storage, layout, orientation, heating and cooling will need to be designed to suit your needs.
4. Architectural Design
You should consider how you would like your extension to look aesthetically, and how it will work with the style of the rest of the home. Consider the interior and exterior and if you would like the design to match seamlessly to the rest of the home or if you are looking for some contrast?
5. Timeframes
Extending your home can be a time-consuming process, so plan accordingly and make sure you have a realistic timeframe in mind. Consider the time frames for the entire process from start to finish. You may be required to obtain permits and additional reports and or drawings may be required from other consultants. In addition, there is the process of designing the extension with your Building Designer or Architect as well as the time it takes for construction. All of these will need to be factored into the process.
6. Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of your extension and whether it aligns with your sustainability goals. This is not something that everyone may feel passionate about, however, your Building Designer or Architect can speak with you more about minimising the extent to which your build impacts the surrounding environment. You may like to consider more environmentally friendly materials that align with your sustainability goals.
Resources to Help You Decide:
- Prime Design can provide you with expert advice and guidance throughout the process about what’s possible in terms of design restrictions on your property.
- Check out government websites for information on permits and regulations in your area. You can contact your local Council for more information. The LIST website and Plan Build Tasmania are also other resources that may assist you in the early stages of the process, however, this should not be substituted for professional advice.
- Speak with real estate agents or a property valuer to get a better sense of the value an extension can add to your home. The important thing to think about is the return on investment for your property if you are looking to rent out your property or sell it down the track, you don’t want to overcapitalise on your investment.
Why an Extension Might Not Be the Best Option
Sometimes extending your home may not be the best option. These are so many factors that can impact what is possible when considering an extension to your home.
At Prime Design, we can help you bring your vision to life. Contact us today by filling out the contact form to learn more about how we can make your home extension project a success.