Most financial advisors would tell you that financial planning is really the first step in achieving your goals for a home extension. Many people buy a home that is on the small side because it is cheaper. They plan to add an extension as they need it and can afford it. But sometimes that time never comes because they don’t plan their finances to include it. With help from a financial planner such as Andep, you can rearrange your finances to get that extension you so desperately need, rather than staying squashed up in a home that is too small.

Don’t be disheartened if your finances seem to all be taken up with paying off other things. There is nearly always a way to squeeze some more out by rearranging other payments, taking a part time job for a few months or better still, having a financial expert go through your finances with you and point out ways to save or get more.

When you do this, you’ll soon have enough to cover the extension you’ve dreamed of even if it takes a year of two more to save up. At least your goal now has a good plan that will see it come into fruition in the near future. And it is certainly worth waiting for.

Other steps in the process are important too.

• You need to get a builder in to estimate the cost of that additional room, deck or veranda, whichever it is you want.
• You also need to apply for council permission and make sure what you plan is allowed by the council rules and regulations. The builder will usually do this and give you valuable advice about the best way to get what you want.
• If you are going to DIY, make sure you have the time and skills to do it properly, otherwise it could end up costing you more.
• Remember you still have to use professionals for things such as electric wiring and plumbing if that is needed in your extension.

There are many ways you can save on the costs of a home extension.

• You can source recycled materials from many places that can save you a great deal, whether it is timber for the framework or such things as windows, doors and flooring.
• You may be able to work with the builder to save time, or
• Do certain non-skilled labour instead of paying to have it done. For instance, many people find internal painting is a skill that is easy to develop.

You may even be able to offer your skills for free in another area in order to cut costs. For instance, if you are an accountant, you could offer to do the builders tax returns for free if he reduces the cost of his labour.