Side-return extension quote

andrewf75

Furts wrote: »

You are not looking at this in a commercial manner. If you buy a £60000 car you do not expect to recoup your investment. Why do you expect to do the same with an extension?

An extension is a very expensive means to add floor space. Think of the logistics, the buying of small quantities of materials, the co-ordination of trades, the incomplete days of working for everybody - the list goes on. There are no economies of scale, you are at the mercy of market forces, plus profit margins to suit each individual customer. On top of this comes 20%VAT which cannot be reclaimed.

If you are trying to recoup your investment then you are adopting the mindset of a property developer. One then picks the property, and potential extension, with care.

When all this is considered two factors emerge. First, many people buy a bigger house to gain more floor space. Second, many people undertake at least some of the work themselves. I happen to have followed the second route. With a clear strategy and commitment unbelievable savings are possible. That is why I thanked ccjane for stating the obvious!

Fair points, but even if recouping your investment isn't the sole aim, you more than likely will do - especially in London.

roses

Hi, I am also in London and looking to get a side return (joint planning permission with the neighbour who already built in 2012).

We originally got a quote in 2012 but weren't ready to do the work. Have gone back to two of the same companies but costs have gone up 30%! (from ~£30k for the basic shell which excludes costs for doors, windows, heating etc to ~£40k).

Does anyone have recommendations of companies in North West London that can build side returns?

Have costs really gone up so much since 2012? Both companies have gone up in price.