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Custom home extensions provide families with spaces tailored to their needs and lifestyles. Aside from these, customised additions can also increase the property value of your home simply by adding more floor space.
When it comes to these projects, proper planning and working with the right builders is essential for a successful and stress-free extension. To learn more about how to navigate this process, read the article below!
The Six-Step Planning Process
When it comes to the home build extension process, you need to take all six steps into consideration.This approach helps homeowners to effectively manage their projects while also finding the best builder for the job.
Define Your Goals and Vision
The first step is to determine your overall plan and vision for the home extension. Identifying your main purpose for the project allows you to prioritise your needs and wants to align with overall function and aesthetics. A few of the common reasons for these additions include adding bedrooms, creating a home office, or expanding living areas.
This allows you to visualise the outcome so you can effectively communicate it to builders. During this initial stage, you can use sketches, inspiration, mood boards, or even 3D renderings.
Set a Budget
While building a custom home extension without a budget sounds tempting, we recommend setting a limit, even if that's already in the six figures. This allows you to request initial project quotes, estimates on design fees, materials and labour from potential builders.
Once you’ve received a quote, you should include a contingency plan. Set aside an additional 10-15% of the total expenses for unexpected costs during the project. Fortunately, many builders offer free quotes with no obligations.
Understand Local Regulations and Permits
Before formally beginning your extension project, you should ensure that it complies with local regulations and permits. Researching local regulations ensures a smooth construction process without permit hurdles.
Once you’ve done your research on zoning and permits, you can now obtain the necessary paperwork for the project. There are different types of permits with different application processes, and they can easily be found on your local council's official website.
When it comes to these projects, it’s important to work with experienced home extension builders because of their regulations and permit knowledge. Aside from constructing your new addition, these professionals also ensure that your addition complies with local regulations.
Also, if relevant, you should also check with your strata manager if there are any regulations you must adhere to.
A few of these regulations may include the following:
- Home appearance and maintenance
- Views blockage
- Design changes
- Decorations
- Exterior storage spaces
Collaborate With the Right Professionals
Working with the right professionals is essential when it comes to custom home extensions. It’s paramount to work with experts who understand your needs and preferences and ensure all your needs are met effectively.
When finding reliable builders, it’s important to vet them for quality and dependability. Because these are significant investments, finding the right partner to meet your needs and expectations is vital. Aside from finances, they’re also building a new room for your family, which should be safe and can withstand the Aussie weather and climate.
When finding these experts, you can communicate your expectations with them. A few of the things to expect in home extension include:
- Commitment to Quality
- 360º Project Management
- Competitive Pricing
Design Considerations for a Seamless Extension
Another essential factor to consider in custom home extensions is how to integrate them into your home seamlessly. Matching existing architecture emphasises cohesiveness in the residence and makes sure that all designs complement each other.
On the other hand, you should priortise its layout and functionality. Since these extensions were built with a purpose, it’s critical that you maximise the space by optimising the layout. Depending on the intention, flow and natural light are non-negotiables for you to be able to use the space efficiently.
Another point to remember, especially when you have a growing family, is future-proofing. One way to do this is to make extensions multi-use for easier adaptability when needed. This can make them more convenient to convert, with the original design intended to be easily transformed into prospective space needs.
Plan for the Construction Phase
The last step in the process is the final construction plan. Once you’ve found a builder and a concrete idea of the space, you can communicate its timeline and other factors. That said, it’s important to ask your builder about your expectations for its duration.
This ensures that both you and the builder are on the same page regarding the extension’s construction period. In this part, it’s also vital to maintain realistic expectations, as these projects could take time.
During the construction phase, working with your builder on how to minimise disruption is a must. Also, you should regularly check in with the project manager to ensure milestones are met. This monitoring also allows you to communicate any possible changes you need or prefer to make.
Build Your Homes Extensions with Mista Reno Today
Custom home extensions give families more space without relocating their entire household. They can meet other needs, such as the recreational space for the kids. Though it’s a tedious process, the end result makes it worth it.
With these projects, it’s important to work with trusted home extension builders like Mista Reno. We have been in the business for over twenty years and have worked on homes across Australia. So achieve your dream home project with us. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re looking into home extensions or other residential construction projects, here are a few commonly asked questions you might have.
What extensions add the most value to homes?
With your home’s resale value in mind, bedrooms and bathrooms have the most impact when it comes to extensions. Since added living rooms or home offices can still be transformed into sleeping areas, bedrooms and bathrooms have the highest financial returns.
How to build a home extension?
There are many approaches to making your own home extension. While some can DIY it, it’s always beneficial to work with a professional. This ensures that the materials suit your needs and your home, along with the necessary permits. Additionally, these experts can streamline the process and maintain high standards.