As your family grows, what you need and want from your home will change. Most obviously, you’ll need more space to house everyone safely and comfortably, but also the type of space that suits you all is bound to shift over time, depending on work, hobbies and personal preferences.
While you could keep moving home, that can be disruptive and there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to find a property that gives you everything you need. So another option for many people when they’re starting to build a family, is to find a home that can grow and change with them.
So, if that’s what you’re looking for, here are some of the main things to think about:
Is there existing space that can be converted?
Extending a home is one way to get extra accommodation, but it can sometimes be easier and more cost-effective if you can convert space that already exists within the property. For example:
• An integral garage that could become a living room or office
• A loft that could be converted into a bedroom – making sure the landing is big enough to accommodate a staircase
• Two smaller rooms that could be knocked together to give a larger reception room or a kitchen/diner
• A conservatory that could be transformed into a more substantial extra room
Victorian and 1930s homes often have particularly good conversion potential versus newer properties, where space has usually already been maximised.
Three key points to consider:
1. How flexible is the current space – i.e. how easily could the function of rooms and layout be changed?
2. Is the loft/roof space suitable for conversion – e.g. does it meet minimum height requirements?
3. How easily could bathrooms be added?
Is there space outside for an annexe or garden room?
Separate accommodation can be ideal for teenagers, a home office, or for older parents to move in, so look at whether you might be able to build an extension or a stand-alone structure, without negatively impacting the look and feel of the garden.
What are the planning rules and restrictions?
Every local authority in England and Wales has the power to set some of its own planning rules, so it’s essential to find out what those are before you buy a property that you want to develop. Most councils will have information on their planning portal, but it can be quicker to speak to them directly or talk to an independent planning consultant who can advise and guide you.
A useful free resource is the Planning Portal. It doesn't just explain planning permission rules; it also covers Building Regulations, which many home improvements must comply with. If the correct permissions and approvals aren't in place, it can create delays and complications when you come to sell your home, so they are essential to research and confirm with your local authority.
As a rule, it’s best to avoid listed buildings and homes in conservation areas, as your options for conversion, extension and even upgrades may be very limited. It can also take a lot of time to get permission to make any changes.
Importantly, if you’re considering buying a home where the current owner has already gained planning permission, have that carefully checked out by a surveyor and legal company to make sure you understand the validity and any conditions for amending the plans.
How much would the work cost?
That will obviously depend on the construction and layout of the existing property, and how extensive or straightforward the works will be. But you can get a good idea of the average cost of various types of projects from websites like Trusted Traders and how to ensure you choose the right people from Trustmark.
But before moving ahead with a purchase, make sure you speak to a surveyor or recommended local builder about your specific plans for the property, to get a more accurate idea of what you would need to spend to get the home you need.
Will it be a good investment?
When a property is a much-loved family home that you’re not planning on selling any time soon, you might not be so focused on how much it’s growing in value. But when you’re investing your hard-earned money into extensions, conversions and refurbishment, it is always good to know whether you’re at least making that money back in capital appreciation.
So, while you’re in the planning stages – and ideally before you even buy a property to improve - it’s well worth asking an experienced local agent to give you an idea of how much the home is likely to be worth after the work is completed.
Our experts are always happy to carry out market appraisals and are here to help you find your ideal home. Just get in touch with your nearest branch and have a chat with one of the sales team.
