Browse Forums Renovation + Home Improvement 1 Nov 22, 2017 8:18 pm Hi, We are starting to outgrow the family home and are looking at either extending or doing a knock down rebuild. Been talking to a few project home places so fairly comfortable with KDR prices. Where I am struggling is on the extension side. I am looking for some advice on how to accurately determine the best approach for an extension and build estimates. Is there any independent services in the market where I can get somebody from the building trade to inspect our existing house, understanding our wants then make some suggestions on cost effective approaches and provide estimates? I am not looking for someone to draw up plans I just want really good independent advice so I can make an informed decision on which way to go (extension vs knock down rebuild) Thanks Re: extension vs Knock Down Rebuild 2Nov 25, 2017 8:28 am Hi lay69u welcome to the forum Most Designers & Builders offer a free one hour consultation unfortunately I think designers often lack engineering, build costs & practical construction knowledge, eg they use 3D software that models up great looking projects and thats where it finishes often it can't be built or is way too costly,etc,etc Alternatively, go to a builder who uses the same software who will not release copyright for you to get independent advice &/or 3 other builders quotes BTW the software and services come at a cost... nothing is free Either way Designer or Builder....If you wish to make informed decisions, insist on data , costs & proofs accompany drawings/models eg. Getting the best Info Data and use from a site/project Designer,Engineer (Civil,Const & Envir),Builder,Concrete & Masonry Contract.Struct Repairs I'm on that journey. I had to demolish a single story brick veneer on concrete raft slab about 220 sq meters for about $19k. They took forever to get a permit and I… 2 2607 5 7185 if the original house is in good condition most of what you listed could be added in stages without the need for KDR and costs and disruption of having to live elsewhere… 1 14331 |