We are going to stay and extend

At this point, the process is still fluid, so avoid overcommitting in terms of investment.

Paying a modest fee for a design service that includes cost estimates will provide a realistic representation of both the building and its associated costs.

Be cautious of companies that request a deposit of $15,000 to $20,000 without showing a drawing, claiming that final cost estimates will come after authority approval. If they only provide a square meter figure and costs, how can you know the sizes of bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and the overall layout in terms of design principles?

Without understanding the design, how can you determine the true costs and its suitability for your family’s needs?

Is the design the right fit for now and into the future.

Others may introduce a third party, claiming that the designer works for them. In this scenario, the client develops the plan with the designer and gains authority approval without knowing the true costs.

This can lead to revised plans and applications in pursuit of savings, as the builder typically provides a quote only after approval, not wanting to waste time on work that isn’t ready to build.

We’ve seen this happen repeatedly, with families spending between $15,000 and $45,000 without a solid estimate of project costs or a plan that clearly outlines what they are getting for their money.