Buying then converting loft - what do I need to know?

[TremoloGreen]

We are trying to buy a house in an area of town that has lots of smaller properties, especially little 2 bed (period) cottages. The 3-beds we can afford are all depressing, the third bedroom is little more than a cupboard so not going to work in future if we have two teenagers. I'm starting to think it would be better to buy a two-bed with two decent size bedrooms (most have a similar amount of living space and garden anyway) and convert the loft. It would be easily affordable as the two bedroom properties are up to £100k cheaper.

The thing is, we are pretty clueless about this sort of thing. What do we need to know about the property/loft space before we buy? Would it be best to go around with an architect and get them to say what would be possible… do they even do this?! I know the highest point of the roof has to be a certain measurement etc but what about adjoining properties? Also, I think we would aim to put in a permanent staircase, which might make it a bigger job. Is it too much of a gamble to do this? I really don't want to move AGAIN after we buy somewhere!

There are pretty strict building regulations about loft conversions so yes, you will need a certain amount of head height to make it possible (which you won't necessarily find in a small period cottage) and you will definitely need a fixed staircase, which will take up space on the first floor, possibly cutting into the bedrooms. There can also be issues with listed buildings and conservation areas.

The easiest way to see if it is feasible is to check whether any similar neighbouring properties have loft conversions. Otherwise, try and find a local builder specialising in loft conversions and pay them to come and view a property with you. But yes, it is a risk, because you may need planning permission, which you won't necessarily get.