Midland Garage Conversions

garage conversion costs

Getting a Quote for a Garage Conversion: What You Need to Know

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If you’re considering converting your garage into a functional living space, one of the first steps is to obtain an accurate quote. A detailed quote will help you understand the costs involved and ensure that your project stays within budget. Here’s how to go about getting a quote for your garage conversion.

1. Define Your Vision

Before reaching out to contractors, have a clear idea of what you want from the conversion. Whether you’re turning the garage into an extra bedroom, home office, or other purpose, your vision will impact the overall cost. Think about the features you want, such as windows, patio doors, a bathroom or utility space. The more detailed your idea, the more accurate your quote will be.

2. Research Local Experts

Look for contractors who specialise in garage conversions. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and check credentials to ensure they have the experience and expertise needed for your project. A good contractor will also invite you to look at previous examples of their work.

3. Schedule a Site Visit

Once you’ve identified potential contractors, schedule a site visit. A site visit allows the contractor to assess the current condition of your garage, discuss your vision, and identify any potential challenges. This step is crucial for getting a realistic and accurate quote. Be prepared to discuss your specific requirements during this visit.

4. Review the Detailed Quote

After the site visit, the contractor should provide a detailed quote. This quote should include a clear and comprehensive breakdown of everything that will be included to the final detail. The key to comparing quotations like for like is making sure they all cover the exact same contract inclusion fees such as building control certification, electrical and gas certification (where applicable) and VAT. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification before moving forward.

5. Consider the Timeline and Payment Terms

In addition to the cost, discuss the timeline and payment terms with your contractor. Understanding how long the project will take and when payments are due can help you plan accordingly. Some contractors may offer payment plans and you will usually pay a deposit upfront.

6. Choose the Right Contractor

Once you have your quotes in hand, take the time to read them carefully. Don’t just go for the lowest price; consider the contractor’s experience, reputation, and your comfort level with their approach. The right contractor will not only provide a fair quote but also deliver quality work that meets your expectations.

Getting a quote for a garage conversion involves careful planning and research. By defining your vision, choosing the right contractor, and thoroughly reviewing the quote, you can ensure your garage conversion is a successful and cost-effective project.

Is a Garage Conversion Cost Effective?

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Throughout our lives we will outgrow our home on more than one occasion. For most people the logical next step is to start the process of looking for another home. The costs involved in moving house can be eye-watering. Solicitors fees, estate agent fees, stamp duty, remortgage fees, removal companies, post redirection and other costs can all add up to five figures. This is dead money; there is nothing material to show from this, it’s just the cost of choosing to move. This is a source of real frustration for many homebuyers.

On top of the financial burden a house move creates, there are months of stress and upheaval. A house can easily take more than six months to sell, especially when there is a chain involved. An independent survey by Index Digital showed moving house is the most stressful life event according to the British public, ranking higher than a divorce or having a child.

Having a garage conversion to increase the usable space in your home can be a fantastic alternative to all this stress and financial outlay. The average cost of moving home in the UK is £10,255 in 2024 according to Homeowners Alliance. Comparably, a single garage conversion (which can be used as a bedroom/bathroom, an open plan kitchen, an office, a studio etc) will cost around £15,000 and add value of around £20,000 to your home. So for the initial outlay, the average person can make £5,000 profit from converting a garage compared to losing £10,255 on moving home. That’s is a difference of over £15,000.

Equally, the average single garage conversion takes Midland Garage Conversions just two weeks. We take care of all certification including building control and project manage everything for you. There’s no paperwork (other than our agreement) to contend with, no solicitors, estate agents or tax calculations. There is very little disruption to your main living area because we’re tucked away working in the garage. Apart from the odd cup of tea, you’ll barely know we’re there! By comparison, a house move will take anywhere between six months to a year of stress, uncertainty and disruption.

Finally the number one reason people choose to move home in the UK is they want more space. Often the emotional wrench of leaving friends, family, schools and neighbours behind is tough. Again, a garage conversion lets you expand into your own home, surrounded by the people and things you love.

If you find yourself needing more space then consider a garage conversion as an alternative to moving home. Low stress, quick and efficient and the added bonus of adding value to your home.