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Please contact McKenzie Strickland Architects for more information or to discuss a specific project.

Contact

London

London Office details coming soon.

T: 01764 910410
E: info@msa–architects.com

Perth

159 Dunkeld Road, Perth Perthshire, Scotland, PH1 5AU

T:01738 445983
E: info@msa–architects.com

Aberfeldy

23 Bank Street, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, Scotland, PH15 2BB

T: 01887 829228
E: info@msa–architects.com

10 ways to reduce your project build costs

So, you have now decided that you want to undertake that project you have been planning for a while. Nobody wants to  spend more money than they have to. So where exactly are the money saving decisions?

We have detailed below 10 ways to reduce your project build costs, without compromising on the overall quality.

Hire an architect
Plain and simple. Hiring an architect will save you money in the  long-run. We advise not undertaking projects without professional consultation.

Plan, don’t guess
We mention planning so much in our blogs, but it really is a process not to be overlooked.  Time is money! We’re meticulous in planning. Make sure to think about every wall, door and window you want/need. The more planning, the less time stalling on the project and, in turn, the less money you will spend.

Less corners on exterior walls
It is advised to try and stay clear of creating unnecessary corners in your build if budget is a big issue. The more exterior corners, the more materials and labour required. In some cases, it is good to think inside of the box.

Use local materials
Local materials can be a lot cheaper and just as reliable as others that you would have to specially order in. Other existing materials could include bricks, roof tiles and vinyl siding for example. You’ll find that local materials add character and uniqueness to  your project.

Material continuity
Namely, with flooring in all the rooms or even tiling in the bathroom. Using the same material can reduce waste and add continuity to your development. Bear in mind, waste costs can crop up if you have materials left over. So it’s better to have less of one product, than a substantial amount of a lot.

Extra trade requirements
Touching on planning, it’s best to know beforehand if your project will require any extra electrical and/or plumbing requirements. Get this sorted early on and source the best quotes from around your area.

Become best friends with your neighbour
Due to the party wall act of 1996, if you are building near the boundary of a neighbour and the project needs a settlement it will cost around £700. You need to give your neighbours eight weeks’ notice in writing  and if they don’t object you can avoid using a surveyor, and thus extra costs. So, it pays to get on well with your neighbours in some cases!

Don’t overbuild for your neighbourhood
Double check your plans. Is the project of a fair and reasonable scale? Remember that a better and bigger home than any others in your area will not be valued any higher. Your house estimate is also valued by properties that surround yours.

Avoid changing plans midway through
Changes to blueprints and materials occur often throughout redevelopment phases. However, it is best advised to stick to your original plan. These changes cost money and time. Don’t be indecisive!

Spend money on the things that matter
Purchase what you really need, not always necessarily want you want. You want your finished project to reflect you as a person and to be something you are proud of, not cripple yourself financially.

Conversely, don’t scrimp on important structural components for the safety and security of your home.

Got an idea of a project in mind?
Talk to us today about it for a free consultation.

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