Sharing A Multi-Generational Home with your Kids or Parents

With major disruptions and job losses as a result of the current COVID pandemic, many younger and older people struggled to keep up with the rent. As a result, it has largely fallen on the shoulders of working age people to house their adult children and their parents. With the phenomenon of multi-generational living here to stay, it is now more popular than ever for the extended family to live on one site or in one home. Sometimes family members are staying in the spare bedroom and other times a renovation is being undertaken. However, living together in close quarters, especially with family, has pros and cons and can result in relationships becoming strained if space isn’t properly managed. With the old tactic of simply adding an extra bedroom with an ensuite not really suitable to the current housing situation, homeowners are facing a number of challenges to make multi-generational living work for the whole family.

Challenge #1:

My ageing parents require accommodation, but we need our own space and don’t want to feel out of place in our own home?
Whether housing your older or younger family members and relatives, there are some guiding principles which should be followed. As older family members will most likely be spending a large amount of their time at home, it makes sense to provide them with their own private lounge or even a courtyard where they can get some sun and you can get some privacy. It’s important to note that when considering a renovation or home upgrade for an older family member, their mobility or other special needs should be taken into account. For example, do your parents require shower rails or handrails on stairs and a wider entrance for wheelchair access? With the health concerns that inevitably beset us as we age, thought should also be given to making sure you’re not too far away from older residents so you can keep an eye on them as well.
There are another lot of considerations for younger family members or your kids who have returned home or not yet left. Oftentimes, they will be living at home for an extended period to save money for a deposit on their own place. While this is a great idea and can really help them off to a great start in life, the arrangement has to work for you as well. To help keep everyone happy, it may be a good idea to make sure their bedroom is large enough for their needs with an ensuite and walk-in robe. Additionally, building an extra study, media room or gaming room can provide a space for your kids to learn, unwind or use for entertainment. This ensures a smooth flow within your home and gives everyone their own private space to go about their usual activities as required.

Challenge #2:

I’m not sure whether to go down the path of renovating and extending my home or building a granny flat.
This age-old question has been faced by families for many years and has only become more pertinent recently with the rise in multi-generational living and the current property market. Whilst each option has its own advantages and drawbacks, it’s largely a matter of personal preference. If you do choose to renovate or build an extension onto your home, we would definitely recommend having a separate entrance. This is especially important when young people are living at home who may come home early in the morning or late at night. Without adequate acoustic insulation, such as Gyprock SoundChek plasterboard or something similar, noise transference through the home could disturb other residents and become an issue. With proper planning however, accommodating everyone under the one roof can work and provides easy access to common amenities such as the kitchen and living room for the whole family.
Whilst some people do like to have their family close by in the same dwelling, many people nowadays are opting to build a standalone granny flat or even base their site on pavilion-style designs. Granny flats also offer many benefits such as increased privacy and less noise problems which are important considerations for most families. Also, a separate building on your property may also be able to be rented out in future and bring in extra income. Whichever solution you choose, it’s important to work with a quality builder such as Optam to ensure everything is planned perfectly and constructed with the highest quality workmanship.

Challenge #3:

I don’t understand Council building regulations.
You’re not alone in feeling lost when trying to decipher the local Council building regulations. In our experience a granny flat and extension or renovation may be viewed in a similar way, either as a CDC (Complying Development) or DA (Development Application). However, it can get a little tricky with Council when the building’s purpose or intended use is not completely clear. Although that may be the case, working with a professional builder with over 3 decades’ experience like Optam goes a long to smoothly navigating the regulatory minefield.

Challenge #4:

The Nitty Gritty
Whist it’s all good and well to design and build the perfect space for your children or parents, it’s also imperative to have some serious discussions if it looks like the arrangement may be a long term one. Discussions around paying for utilities and food as well as who’ll complete chores are best had early on to establish personal boundaries and ensure your family continues to grow and love each other more and more each day.

Build With Optam

If you’re in a position where you’re thinking about building a granny flat or undertaking a major renovation, please contact Optam Building Group on (07) 5443 3780 or email admin@optam.com.au for your complimentary discovery consultation. With over 30 years in the building game and a team of expert trades, your next project will be in great hands with us.

Special Promo Offer

Should I Renovate My Own Place?

If you’ve been in your home a while and it’s no longer meeting your needs, a renovation might be exactly what you need to freshen up your living spaces. A home renovation is appealing for two main reasons—It increases your property’s resale value and drastically improves living conditions.

As the real estate market grows more competitive, more homeowners are deciding to stay put while investing more in their home. A survey conducted by Houzz found that more than half (51%) of homeowners planned to renovate their homes. But make no mistake: Renovations are a massive undertaking. They require a great deal of planning and a significant budget to cover the costs

Ask yourself the following question before embarking on an extensive remodel and be honest with your responses.

Do You Rent or Own Your Property?

Any renovations you do will ultimately come out of your pocket. The decision to renovate then will depend a great deal on whether you rent or own your place.

If you rent you’ll need to get permission from your landlord first. Most will be happy to accommodate and some may even reimburse you as larger renovations mean a higher home valuation. If you plan on staying for an extended period, speak with your landlord about any projects you have in mind. That way you’re not at risk of losing your security deposit.

Even if you own your property, it’s still important to think about your long-term plans. It doesn’t make much sense to pour thousands of dollars into renovations if you plan on moving within the next year or two.

Can You Afford a Home Renovation?

Remodelling isn’t exactly cheap.

Just the cost of renovating a bathroom can cost over $10,000. Kitchen renovations tend to cost even more if you plan on replacing cabinets, countertops, and appliances. There are countless examples of homeowners having to stop a project halfway through due to poor financial planning. Spiralling costs and issues with contractors scope are among the most common causes of overruns in costs.

Establish a clear budget right from the start. Research finishes and speak with multiple contractors to estimate how much your project will cost. It’s also a good idea to maintain a contingency fund of 10 to 15 per cent to plan for any unforeseen costs. One sensible option is to meet with a financial planner to determine whether you can afford a renovation based on your financial health and how much you can set aside.

As workers start to knock things down, your home can become more vulnerable to pests such as termites and mice. Renovations are a good time to have a full pest control inspection done. Any exterminator can work around your contractors’ schedule to treat an infestation before any construction starts.

Is It Worth Renovating Your Property?

Even if you can afford a renovation, you may still want to think twice before proceeding. Underlying problems such as structural issues could mean it’s more worthwhile to rebuild than renovate. See my previous blog Renovate or Detonate.

Another reason to be cautious is the risk of over-capitalising your home—Putting more money into the property than you’ll get back from it. There’s a misconception that renovations add a dollar-for-dollar increase in a home valuation but isn’t always true. Some renovations can even be a burden if you decide to sell. Swimming pools are one example as the new owners will have to factor in maintenance and insurance costs.

Think about whether you should remodel in the first place and prioritise projects with the most benefits. Check to see what kind of permits you need or if your design requires approval by any committees. Taking these steps will save a lot of frustration later on.

For additional info visit the Optam website area on Knockdown Rebuilds or Houzz for Inspiration and to start saving Ideabooks with content for the perfect Lifestyle Home.

Author’s Bio

Alex Morrison has been a SEO Expert for over 10 years. In this time he has worked with a range of businesses giving him an in depth understanding of many different industries including home improvement, business support and health care. He has used his knowledge and experience to work for clients as diverse as Glenbrea Signs, Cosh Living and Me Bank to help them reach their business goals.

House & Land Package

How Long Does It Take To Build A House From Start To Finish

You have bought your perfect piece of land, found your dream home layout and met with your builder. You are eager to book the removal truck, but how long should you expect to wait?

In Australia, the average time from purchase of land to moving day is anywhere up to 12 months. Quality builders are very good at predicting a timeframe to assist in planning your transition, however it is best to stay as flexible as you can and keep communication open. You may be able to carry a loved one over the threshold in as little as six months, but this depends on several key factors.

Factors Affecting Build Time

1. The Building Plan

Sometimes, you can jag the ideal building plan and be ready to roll with it, but most of the time there are amendments that need to be made. Take the time to sit with your builder or architect and thoroughly inspect the plan for anything that may not work for you. They can adjust a multitude of things to ensure you get the house that suits you and your family.

In terms of the actual build, it also goes without saying that more complex, larger dwellings will take longer to construct. If you have multiple storeys, above-average number of rooms or extras such as a super-sized alfresco area, allow additional time.

2. The Land

Another major factor in delaying the building process is the condition of the land you are building on. Flat, barren land doesn’t generally take too much in the way of earthworks. In this case, you can expect your pad down in just a couple of weeks from signing on the dotted line. However, if you have steep slopes, drainage issues or large trees to contend with, you could be up for a bit more of a wait (and cost).

3. The Season

As much as builders try to work no matter the weather, there are safety concerns that come with the job and sometimes they need to delay the build for a day or two. For example, roofers must be selective in the work they do when it is raining, as the risk of slipping and falling is greatly increased. Similarly, scorching hot days can pose a health risk for any outdoor worker, with not only sunburn, but potentially deadly heatstroke a real possibility. Safe working conditions are regulated by law, so be respectful if your building team needs to take off for a few days to keep themselves safe.

4. The Type of Build

Common methods of building, such as brick, have a relatively standard timeframe for completion. Notwithstanding supply error, builder mistake or other extenuating circumstance, the bones of your house can be up in as little as a few months. Prefab concrete is gaining popularity and is quick to install, as are some newer cladding options now on the market. If you choose something a little out of the box, such as stonework, timber or mud, you may need to hire a builder skilled in this particular application and be prepared to give them time to complete it perfectly.

Average timeframe for each stage of the build

Now that you know the four key factors for determining how long it takes to build a house from start to finish, what are the rough timeframes you should expect?

Building is completed in several stages. Each stage is listed below, with an approximate time taken.

1. Site testing and earthworks to prepare the area for building.
   Approximately one week.
2. Laying of the concrete slab.
   Two weeks (weather permitting for the pour and set).
3. Construction begins, starting with the frame. The walls and roof framework are put in and electrical chasing is installed

Four to eight weeks.

1. Lockup stage – the details go in. This includes pipework, plasterboard on the walls, roof and ceiling finishings, rendering, doors and window panes.
   Four to eight weeks
2. Finishing it all off – where your house becomes a home. In goes the cabinetry, cornicing and skirting, shelving and built-in furniture, airconditioning and tiling.
   Six to eight weeks.
3. Practical completion – your house is now livable, but there are the finishing touches to put in that really bring it all together. This includes the landscaping and irrigation, painting, floor coverings, letter box, clothesline and all the little bits and pieces that make the place fully functional.

Up to eight weeks.

As you can see, the building process can be quite varied, with many potential delays along the way. Holdups with planning or earthworks, inclement weather, complex building requirements or even the occasional builder scheduling or supply issue can all set moving day back a little – but it will be worth it in the end. Talk to your builder about their proposed timeframe before you start, so you can better manage your interim living arrangements and finances accordingly.

Take the first step – Optam have an 8 stage Design & Construct Process

Author’s Bio

Managing Director and Owner: Gerry Hoggard bought Sperway in 1984, Gerry has been in the Building Industry for over 37 years with the following qualifications; B.App.Sci. Post grad T. & R.P. (Melb. Uni.) L.S., Registered Building Practitioner (VIC), Licenced Contractor (NSW). He commenced the Extension Factory Group of companies over 35 years ago, and today employs approximately 75 staff in Melbourne & Sydney. The group of companies has a turnover exceeding $50 million.

What are the Steps to Building a House?

The thought of building a brand new house can be both exciting and a bit scary for some people but a new home can give you the freedom to enjoy a property designed especially to suit your particular lifestyle. The one main thing to get right from the very start is the property management. A large build such as a house needs careful management every step of the way. The following information will give you an understanding of the process from go to whoa to help you better enjoy your venture.

1. Choosing a Design For Your Home

The very first step on this road should be knowing what kind of house you want and need. There are so many choices out there for home builds, from architectural designs, project homes, house and land packages, custom-built properties or Do-It-Yourself kit homes. They all have their advantages and disadvantages, benefits and costs and so you need to sort out what kind of house you want, where you want it, what you need, and importantly, what you can afford.

2. Choose a Block of Land For Your Build

The reason you need to take time with the design of your new home is that, whether you’re doing a knockdown and rebuild, or building on a block you’ve already bought, your building design has to be compatible with the block. If you don’t check all of this out first, it can be a big problem when it comes to building costs. So, make sure you employ an expert who can inspect the building site before you commit to ordering the design, or buying the land. Location and orientation are also big factors in the long term liveability of your new home.

3. Choosing the Builder To Construct Your Home

Don’t just hire any old builder, or the first one you make enquiries with, but shop around. It’s really important to do your research so you find the right builder for your particular project. Ask people whose homes you admire what their process was like; were they happy with the builder, the price and the end product? Ask various licenced builders if they are interested in providing a quote on your new house, they’re availability to work within your timeframe and contact details for previous clients. Preliminary design stage is a good time to request ballpark costings for each aspect of your build before working drawings and engineering is completed. With any contracts you are given, make sure it covers absolutely everything and there’s an agreed timeline for completion. You also need to get the home indemnity insurance, preparation of plans agreement, contract variations agreement and the building specification and inclusions before signing any contracts

4. Applying For Your Home Loan

Before you begin the building process, you need to be aware that one of the crucial factors in a successful project is keeping your finances in order, and also, after you know what it will cost, have your home loan approved and ready to go. If you’re .lucky enough to have savings in a term deposit account make sure you can withdraw the amount you need for your home loan deposit.  Get your lawyer or conveyancer to check the building contract and find out how progress payments will be decided. For instance, you might be able to spell out that inspections will be necessary to make sure the building is progressing to the standard needed before any payments are to be made. You can always ask for monthly progress claims rather than set progress payments but you will need to ask for that in a quote. Make sure you take on board the fact that there will be Stamp Duty costs and legal fees to pay on your loan application.

5. Signing the Building Contract

You’ll need to review the contract carefully with your lawyer or conveyancer once you’ve agreed to the price. Stories abound in the industry about the many pitfalls that occur due to contract errors. Ensure that you are feeling confident enough to sign the documents because it can be costly to make changes down the line. Also, check the local council laws and regulations in the area of your build, to make sure your contract complies with their standards and requirements. Make sure also that your builder is the one responsible for obtaining permits and building licenses from the various and relevant authorities. Insurance is something to think about as well before the building work begins, to protect the new property, your land, and the safety of anyone visiting the building site.

6. Monitor the Building of Your New House

A pre-start meeting with your builder is usually held before the beginning of construction so you can decide on the final materials and fittings for your house. You should remain involved in every further stage of the build so you can decide on elements of the design and to ensure everything is done on budget and on time. You could keep a diary to jot down important details of the build; things like any discussions you have with the builder, the weather that might halt work, progress updates, copies of notices and mail relating to the build and backed up with photographs of every stage. You can hire an independent building manager or consultant to monitor the construction for you if you don’t have the time or don’t feel confident.

7. Handing Over the Keys

You should be able to collect the keys to your new home about a week after the completion of the construction and then you can make any final payments and move in. But do ensure that you have a copy of all the relevant certificates and warranties outlined in your contract and that you have been given the builder’s written authority that the house finished and it’s safe to move in.

8. Take the first step – Optam have an 8 stage Design & Construct Process

References:

1. http://www.mbansw.asn.au/

Author’s Bio

Alex Morrison has been an avid digital marketer for over 10 years. In this time he has worked with a range of businesses giving him an in depth understanding of many different industries including home improvement, financial support and health care. As the owner of Integral Media he is now utilising his knowledge and experience with his rapidly increasing client portfolio to help them achieve their business goals.

Our Latest Display Home is Now Open to View at 79 Skybolt Rd Valdora Proudly Designed and Built for Endeavour Foundation Lotteries

Whyte slab flyover

Property Development is a Community Service

Recently I bought a second hand mower from a retired widower and upon entering his garage I could not help but notice 15 – 20 bicycles of varied styles and states of repair neatly lined up.

The sprightly pensioner explained that, to fill his days he collects discarded bicycles and restores them to offer back to the public for the price of parts as a service to the community.

This event helped me appreciate that developing property is also a community service, regardless of the detractors and ‘NIMBY’ objectors by way of offering the public a recycled and improved product.

When it is done well, in the correct location and for all the right reasons such as gentrification, well designed developments can add character, a sense of place and often immense value to a community.

Property development draws a negative reaction from some minority parties but inevitably a good development must correlate to market demand otherwise the end product will not sell and sometimes the old ways do not complement our ever-changing world.

As towns and cities grow and evolve, changes are required to help adapt and make better use of particular areas to better suit the residents on a broader scale, in line with a bigger picture and future demand. Infill housing and small lot developments allow higher density living in town centres and growth areas identified in draft town planning schemes. These plans are put in place after extensive community consultation and if innovative minds capitalise on opportunities created by changes in town planning requirements or zoning laws they should be applauded. New member for Fairfax Clive Palmer used property development on the Gold Coast to create 40 million before he moved into mining ventures and now that he is expounding an interest in the Sunshine Coasts burgeoning economy we can assume Clive now appreciates a sustainable approach.

Modern sustainable construction has changed significantly from the extreme environmentalist use of recycled tyres, thatching and composting toilets to enable the building of designer homes and units worthy of our finest suburbs.

Due to passive design techniques and innovative new building materials, modern eco-homes blend street appeal with the impressive ability to be classed as net-zero energy super homes or what I call “bullet proof investments”.

Many business owners choose property investment and development as a wealth creation vehicle for retirement, allowing them to reduce time at work and enjoy life sooner.

The more successful take it up full time as they enjoy the hunt for a bargain along with the risk and reward benefits of being masters of their own destiny.

Opportunity abounds for those who are prepared and a major part of the prep will be to gather a team of trusted professional partners with the skills and experience to complement your own because with proper research the rewards are satisfying in more ways than one.

Never be so busy making a living that you forget to make a life, then together, we can make this world a better place.

Dual Occupancy Offers Solutions, When the only Constant in Life is Change

Some optional extras that seemed like a good idea at the time are never fully utilised, like a fold up cup holder on a ride-on mower but a trend toward dual-key apartments that cater for any unforeseen shift in living conditions arising from the inevitable reality that change is the one constant in life, now that’s gold. The versatility and adaptability of your living space and income potential give you more control and immediate solutions when dealing with the uncertainty of life and its changes.

Dual occupancy can describe many different dwelling types from student accommodation with shared living area and key locked bedrooms to larger homes sectioned off to allow subleasing of separate portions including private access, then the more recognised suburban duplex including various legal and under the radar versions rented to family members and understanding tenants. Dual occupancy and dual key options are increasingly being offered to investors in apartment buildings and holiday accommodation homes as they offer increased investment and lifestyle advantages.

Developers are pursuing this niche with a growing percentage of new apartment buildings like Sydneys cutting edge Central Park offering 33% of units as dual key apartments. Investment in student accommodation is also on the rise with projected returns of 7.5% being advertised by marketers.

Prudent developers understand the importance of market research in regards to product and location. Careful consideration should be given to market demand as this is not a case of “build it and they will come”. Design of the actual dwelling requires careful consideration to address access, privacy and most importantly safety and liveability to ensure residents needs are not only well catered for but enhanced to create maximum market demand from both tenants and investors. A creative development design team must take into account all of these ingredients while working with the site attributes and constraints, best use of land under current zoning, market demand and feasibility to deliver with healthy profit margins. Then think outside the box to meet a higher market demand and improve feasibility if possible taking into account the chances of development approvals increased time and holding costs.

If you get it right, They will come….. and reward you handsomely for your efforts

Opportunity abounds for those who are prepared and a major part of the prep will be to gather a team of trusted professional partners with the skills and experience to complement your own because with proper research the rewards are satisfying in more ways than one.

Never be so busy making a living that you forget to make a life, then together, we can make this world a better place.