building an extension in front of the house

[Waterlily9]

DH and I have liked a property. But we are bit on the fence, as in the longer run, we might need one more room. The simple solution is to convert the living room into a bedroom and build a small extension - like a conservatory in front of the house which could serve as an area to entertain. There is sufficient space in front of the house so I don't think we would face much issue that way. But is there a rule that homes have to look alike in the front? If that's the case, we might have to opt out of this house. Any suggestions? :)

Why would you want a conservatory at the front of your house?? Why not just build it at the back? They're basically goldfish bowls
There's no rule that all houses have to look alike, of course not. Plans can be refused on the basis of "out of keeping with the surrounding area" if the proposal is radically different, though.

As a general rule our local planning department insist on the building line being maintained, but if the houses either side don’t conform to a line it may be possible.

Contact the local planning office they are usually very helpful.

The building line usually prohibits or precludes this in a lot of Circumstances.

And that’s a lot to do with underground utilities, local authorities services, emergency services and not just aesthetics/sight lines/light to main rooms etc.

We are extending to the front and so did my parents. My front projection isn’t that big though. There are definitely more restrictions.

A upvc conservatory isn't suitable for a year round living room. Too hot in summer, too cold in winter. If the house seems to small before you've even bought it, is it really the one for you?

If the houses are quite uniform in design you might struggle to get planning permission but if they're all different then it'll be easier.
Does your local council offer pre-application advice? You could ask them and maybe make a conditional offer on the house while you wait.

Yes it would be an issue here, front extensions, so the building is closer to the highway, aren't often allowed.

If there's some similar done already you can ask and mention "like no.23 and no45 " as they may have set a presidence . If no one has what you want, chances are decreased.

Why to the front? You will need planning permission and it will be more difficult. To be honest a front conservatory would devalue and house, even if it got through planning.

I extended my house on the front. We have a large front garden. It’s all about the building line, the basic rules will be on your local borough council website.

Just no. Buy a bigger house.

Talk to your local planning department. They'll be able to tell you if that would be acceptable in your area.

Again, I doubt planning would be permitted. If the EA told you otherwise then you really shouldn't believe them if their lips are moving...

Why would you not just do a loft conversion if you need an extra bedroom? Sticking a conservatory on the front of your house because you're a bedroom short is such a bizarre idea.

It really depends on the street set up. If all the houses are similar, with an established building line it is unlikely to gain PP. If perhaps it is a more diverse area - a mix of property types, well separated from each other, with random positions within their plots and in relation to the frontage, you may have a chance. Don't forget there may be more of an impact on neighbours, visibility lines etc.