DH and I are in the very early stages of considering buying a house that would need total renovation. Aside from wondering if we've lost our minds, we're also wondering how much such a project would realistically cost. We're first-time buyers, so this is all new to us.
The house we're looking at is a 4-bed semi-detached in north London and it would need:
- modernised heating system
- possibly extensive rewiring
- complete redecorating
- loft refurb (already converted but in poor condition)
- all new appliances
- refurb existing bathroom and add ground-floor toilet and utility room and loft shower room
- new kitchen
- new flooring/carpet throughout
- add built-in wardrobes/storage in bedrooms, shelving in lounge
- possibly take down wall between kitchen diner for more open plan
- possibly convert large existing garage, at least in part, to garden office
- possibly open main flue for woodburning stove
- redo garden
Some estimates I've seen seem very low, such as £5k for a new kitchen or £5k for a complete rewire, so I'm finding it hard to get an idea of real costs.
We would be looking to do it all up to a very good standard, but not talking smart fridges or anything like that.
Also, how long would such a project take?
I know these are quite general questions and a survey will help to determine exactly what needs doing, but if anyone has been through it and could share their experience and what it all cost, I'd appreciate it! TIA