What's better, Move house or Extend?

FAQs

Why should I extend my home?

As your family grows, your home may need to do the same. Instead of undertaking the cumbersome process of moving house, simply make the one you’ve come to love even better.

It’s not easy to replace the home you love, and it’s even harder to find another neighbourhood, school or community you feel at ease in. Money spent on an extension with XL Built is an investment for the future, not something lost on real estate agent fees, conveyancing, stamp duty and removal costs.

If you love your neighbours, garden, the distance from work and your loved ones, save yourself the stress of moving house and opt for making your home the perfect one through improvements.

What is included in the fixed-price contract?

At XL Built there are no surprises. We are open, upfront and are confident in the quality and professionalism of our work.

The following is included in our fixed-price contract:

Consultation, design and plans.
Building Permit.
Council and engineer’s fees.
Quality materials.
Warranty insurance.
3 months maintenance back up service.
Guaranteed Completion Date.
10 year Structural Guarantee.

Should I use a Builder or an Architect to design my extension?

Homeowners seeking to design a home extension would benefit from engaging a builder rather than solely relying on an architect for several compelling reasons. Builders possess practical expertise in construction, allowing them to consider structural feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and efficient use of materials right from the design stage. They bring a hands-on perspective to the project, ensuring that the envisioned extension aligns with the homeowner’s needs while adhering to local building regulations and codes.

By involving a builder, homeowners can enjoy a streamlined process that integrates design and construction seamlessly, minimizing communication gaps and potential delays. This collaborative approach fosters a holistic understanding of the project, leading to a more efficient and satisfactory outcome for the homeowner.

Why should I choose XL Built?

When you choose XL Built, you choose certainty. We have been in business for over a decade with a specialist team dedicated to creating custom design and build packages to suit all lifestyles.

We employ highly qualified contractors and our designers are second to none in the industry. Each job is met with a series of approvals, stringent testing and meticulous supervision.

How does the process work?

Our flexible and friendly service begins from the moment you pick up the phone. Following a no obligation discussion, one of our professional design consultants will meet you in the comfort of your own home to discuss your vision.

In this initial step, our consultant will discuss your home’s functionality, take some photos and provide professional suggestions on improving liveability within the space. We work with you on establishing your budget and the realities achievable.

Soon after your home visit, you will receive a custom-made floor plan of your new extension and a detailed price estimate full of high quality specifications.

Following approval of your personalised layout, we work together in selecting the quality finishes you’d like applied to your home. These designs and specifications are passed on to our contractors and building will commence. From this stage, your site supervisor will be on hand to assist you with any queries or concerns. Soon enough, the keys to your perfect home will be back in your hands.

At XL Built we are passionate about the comfort of you and your family. We have worked with countless Melbourne families in creating the perfect home through stunning and seamless new extensions. Contact us now to find out what we can do for you.

When can you start?

Our team at XL Built can commence your project as soon as you engage us to begin your design. However, please note that we have a maximum limit of handling four projects in the construction stage simultaneously. This cap ensures that we can dedicate the necessary attention to maintain our high-quality standards. While this approach has the drawback of operating on a “first in, first served” basis, initiating the design process with us at the earliest opportunity will enable us to schedule your construction sooner.

How long will it take?

In general, the duration of the design process, including obtaining the building permit, can range from 3 to 12 months. However, this timeframe may vary depending on whether your design requires Town Planning approval from the council.

Regarding the construction process, for a standard-sized ground floor extension or second-story addition, it typically takes approximately 3 to 6 months from the commencement of digging to the point where you receive the keys to your completed home.

How much will it cost?

Estimating the cost of a home extension can be challenging without professional guidance. The recommended initial approach is to reach out to an experienced home extension builder and discuss your project concepts with them. By collaborating with an expert, you can receive valuable assistance in creating a suitable budget tailored to your family’s requirements.

Should I extend or should I move?

When deciding whether to extend your home or move, there are several factors to consider. Extending your home allows you to stay in a familiar location, customize your living space, and potentially increase its value. However, moving offers a fresh start, the opportunity to find a property that meets your current needs, and the excitement of a new environment. It’s important to evaluate your long-term goals, financial situation, emotional attachment to your current home, and the availability of suitable properties. Consulting with professionals can provide valuable insights. Ultimately, the decision should align with your priorities and provide a comfortable living situation

Can I live in the home during construction?

While in some circumstances it is possible to live in your home during an extension project, it is generally not recommended.

Constructing a home extension effectively transforms your living space into a construction site, which comes with certain drawbacks. Throughout the day, various tradespeople will generate noise, and despite efforts to seal off the existing home, dust inevitably finds its way in.

It can be challenging to keep pets securely confined while work is in progress, and the presence of young children poses additional concerns. Privacy is compromised as construction activities take place, and extra cleaning measures are necessary to maintain a safe site, leading to increased costs.