Getting good value extending/renovating a house.

[7610 super q]

Will the price of building materials come down again though ? I doubt it. Not like farming where prices go up and down. I suspect the hike will be here to stay.

 

[Clive]

Are there any tips for getting best bang for bucks.
Basically a 2 bed cottage that needs doubled in size to give a good sized kitchen, dining, living area.
I don't intend project managing it myself as I would be working full time.
Is an architect a must.
Best value for heating systems, solar, air source etc.
We want a lot of glass so how does that compare cost and efficiency wise with block etc.
Is a degree of pre fab ok, such as SIPS (forgot what that stands for) something insulated system.
Any and all suggestions encouraged.

3 words

fixed price contract !

 

[Secret Agronomist]

Don’t go for an extension. Go for new build. A new build will give you a better house built upto date with good insulation. You can claim the vat back on new builds but not extensions! This is the voice of experience. I really wish I had done this with mine!

I know this but the original bit is basically a sound sandstone cottage, will need insulating and updating but we want to keep it for character. it's the closest thing we've found that we like (which includes all the plots we've looked at). If it had been considerably cheaper I wouldn't hesitate to demo it.