The majority of us have spent the last 12 months at home. For some of us, this along with external influences such as the reduction of Stamp Duty, has encouraged us to make a change.
Some have decided to move to a new property.
Some have decided to make changes to their current home; building extensions, creating loft conversions or making other adaptations.
Some have decided to purchase a project property, an investment, or take their turn on the re-development ladder.
Whether you fall into one of the categories above or are in the process of making your own property change, you may be wondering, “what happens next?”. If you’re in need of some professional support, our Project Management Team can help.
HCS can support you in many ways with your change
So what now? The purchase is complete and/or your visions of the development work are flowing. You may have a budget in mind, along with a Pinterest board or two.
It’s easy to see why you might also be feeling a little daunted, so much goes into any renovation project!
Your first step is to develop your visions: by drawing up plans/elevations you can put your ideas on paper and play around with them. This will help you to understand any challenges faced in the construction, or constraints with aspects such as statutory consents, permissions etc.
A high-level budget estimate can be produced to help gauge the cost of your vision, for your consideration against your budget.
You may need to consider statutory permissions in achieving your visions, for example planning permission, building control approval, or party wall matters.
The next step is to obtain prices from contractors. Works schedules along with drawings can be created in varying degrees to gain competitive prices from contractors to understand the best company with which to to move forward.
A formal agreement, or contract, is always recommended between the two parties before works start.
Then your vision begins to take form, until finally the last paint stroke is finished and furnishings are in place. This stage can be the most stressful: managing contractors and managing expectations, as well as managing programmes and finances.
But at the end of the works, the vision is complete. You stand back, take a deep breath and feel proud of what has been achieved.
How can HCS’ Project Management help your works to go smoothly?
HCS offer a wide range of project management and contract administration services to help you through this process, from the first image that catches your eye in a magazine, on a walk or on the internet, right up to the completion of the project.
With our project management and contract administration offering available in 5 levels, ranging from basic to full service. It can be tailored to suit your requirements, with a pick and choose approach. To download a PDF of the details of our various service levels, please click here.
Need help with your project management? Get in touch!
So, if you are considering making a change, to your current or a new property, and you require a professional, creative and friendly source of support, Howe Chartered Surveyors would be delighted to help.
We offer a free telephone consultation to discuss the initial aspects of your scheme and how we can assist you through our Project Management services.
Natasha Howe BSc(Hons) MRICS | Associate Director
To get in touch with Natasha or our team, send her an email or get in contact.
