Buying a property that needs work

Antman27

Hello,

We really liked a property because of its location, space etc. Ticks all the boxes except that the kitchen is tiny and there's no cloakroom on the ground floor. So I'm keen to understand the time and cost it could take to:

1. Take down an inner wall (assuming it's load bearing) and build a kitchen island.
2. Build a small bathroom on the ground floor.

I know there are a LOT of variables at play but I'm just looking for some ballpark estimates. From my desktop research, it looks like £30k for the kitchen + £8k for the bathroom (hopefully this is nearer the higher end!).

The house as such is immaculate and there'll be buyers who could just walk in and start living. One option is for us to do that and defer the above projects till we are settled in and have a bit more financial cushion. But I've got two kids and have to consider the disruption/dust etc., so wondering if it'd be better to do it before we move in.

Thanks.

kasqueak

If having those things is a ‘must’ for you then it probably would be better to do it before moving in as then you wouldn’t have the disruption of having work done whilst living there. If you have the luxury of course of being able to buy it and not move in straight away. 

If they’re not a ‘must have’ then maybe it’s best to move in and see what it’s like to live there. Maybe those things won’t seem as important to you. 

All a personal choice really. 

Installing a downstairs bathroom would be more expensive than just a WC and sink. Location also makes a difference. So it’s easier and cheaper for this to be installed either below an existing bathroom or next to the kitchen where you’ll already have water. 

Most builders will give you a free estimate. So I’d get some round to have a look. The cost can vary in what area you live in. What spec you want etc.