Architect drawings before completion?

[Robs20]

We have finally had an offer accepted on a house we love. Saw it for the first time 18 months ago but decided against it for silly reasons. It recently came back on the market and seemed like fate..
The vendors need to find a property but haven’t been actively looking until they had an offer. Hoping to complete early Jan.
Here’s my question......the house needs renovating and we would like to do a single storey extension (under permitted development so no planning needed). Problem is, I’ve just found out I’m pregnant with twins and would really like to avoid living in a building site/ enjoy the renovation whilst on mat leave. Would it be stupid to get architect drawings done now to try and get the work started as soon as we complete? I have no idea how long a lead time we would need/ how long drawings take....and also aware that builders book up months in advance...

Well, nothing is certain until you complete so you are risking architect's fees if you don't go ahead. Also, will the current owners put up with 3 x builders coming round and measuring up to quote (supposed to get 3 quotes (plus the odd structural engineer to test foundations, walls and so on) which may leave marks)? Nice idea but it's it realistic?

We are in the process of buying a house which we would like to extend. We are also going to start ttc baby number 2. I would love to time it well but it’s impossible.
We’re going to (fingers crossed) complete on the new house, get architects and builders round and work to what they can do and should I fall pregnant, baby 2 will have to slot in. It’s not ideal and will be stressful as hell but it’s just not a situation I can plan.

Hmmm I think you’re right....and don’t want to waste money!! unless we start work straight away there is no chance it will be done in time. Might try and get an architect in as soon as we exchange and go from there.....

Good plan. You could send your chosen architect a floor plan of the house and a date to pop round very soon after you move in. In the mean time ask around for builders who have worked for friends and start keeping a file of ideas for the changes you want to make.

Unless your planning authority is very quick and you find a builder with no work, you will never complete this before your babies are born! No chance. Allow a year.

I’m hoping we won’t need planning and can do it under permitted development....but agree it is not realistic! I’m getting carried away thinking of the dream house.....