Hints and tips on how to save money on your extension project.
More and more homeowners are deciding to extend rather than move, but how can costs and budgets be controlled to make the most of your project. These house extension simple hints and tips that could save you hundreds if not thousands on your project.
Labour costs/Finding the right builder
Most people will want to rush the start of a project as soon as the planning permission is granted but you need to be careful and take your time choosing the right builder. There are so many ways to find the right builder such as recommendations, from friends or family or by using online review sites. We can also provide you with recommended builders we have worked with.
Sometimes all that is needed is word of mouth, asking neighbours, friends and family could result in you finding your perfect match.
You should aim for between 3-5 quotations from separate builders. The average between these is likely to be the correct sum to pay and high or low quotes should be avoided.
Planning (the organisation kind!)
It’s all in the planning! Careful planning will make all the difference, so think ahead through every stage of your project from the budget, down to the time of year you plan to build. We recommend starting to plan for your project at least 6 months before works start, this way you can make informed decisions rather than rushing through the options.
When starting to think of your project, avoid changing plans midway through a project, this is where a lot of people find the cost can increase. Work closely with your residential designer and ask questions throughout so you’re always in the clear. Looking at the small details thoroughly will avoid potential changes during the build.
Simple Design
Do you really want those curved walls? Sometimes a simpler design is preferable as this will keep those costs down and simple designs means cheaper labour and materials. It’s often the case that one large skylight is cheaper than two!
If it’s your dream and the budgets there, then go for it! But try not to follow trends where you could change your mind in a few years and be stuck with the feature you really thought you wanted.
Speak to your neighbours
Keeping your neighbours in the loop at the start of your project could save you hundreds. By consulting with them early on in the design phase may mean that your planning application is more likely to be consented. They may also be happier to agree to Party Wall Agreements without engaging with expensive surveyors, at your cost!
Recycle, re use, repair
This may not seem like the most obvious thing to do when looking at kitchens for example: but if you shop around for your fixtures and fittings, you can buy reclaimed items, second-hand kitchens, and even ex display.
Looking on places like Facebook Marketplace, local Facebook groups Ebay, etc is a great place to start, you will be surprised what you may find! And you’re saving the planet, so its win win!
Budget
Allocate budgets for all areas from the beginning. Set aside amounts for all parts of your project even down to the fixtures and fittings. Always plan into your budget for repairs that you may need or unforeseen costs that could occur during the build.
Take time to plan your budget and you cant go wrong. Speak to people who have completed similar works and see if you have missed anything off. Try and keep as close to your budget as possible.
Don’t over extend (consider the structure)
Really think to yourself ‘do you need that extra 1ft out the back? The larger the project the higher the cost.
Seems obvious but it isn’t always what you think of when planning your project. Ask your architect or designer if you really need that extra space by working out the layout of the room and how you will use the space.
Would keeping that extra bit of garden make all the difference on those summer days?
Windows and Doors
Yes this may seem obvious that the cost will be high in this area but really think about your life style and if you would miss it if you never had it. Bifold doors aren’t always the answer and they can be very expensive. Research which style you would like to go for that will suit your project/lifestyle and maybe look at an alternative. Even adapting what you have could bring the price right down.
Stick to the agreed design
Making changes throughout your project will inevitably increase labour, design and finish costs. Taking the time in the very beginning stages to ensure you are happy with the design will avoid this. Working closely with your Designer will help you so much in the long term, so there should be no need for changes further down the line.
Discounts
When you have your planning permission is in place and are waiting for your project to start this is your time to search for as many deals possible to allow you to cut costs on as much of your materials. Checking price comparison sites is also a good way to check when things are discounted. Remember big or small, it doesn’t matter as long as your saving something then it’s a saving for you!
Signing up for a cash back site might seem like a silly idea but you could make something on that new kitchen or bathroom just by spending. You could then use your cash back to spend on things like paint or even that door handle you really wanted but thought abit of a luxury.
We hope you find these hints and tips helpful with saving some money on your project.
Contact us at Detailed Planning to get a competitive quote for your project today.
