What do I need and where do I start?

[HouseHelpRequired]

I’m living in a small house I can’t leave for a couple of years. It needs some updates - mostly decorating - but I’m also considering layout changes (e.g. converting the garage, possibly a tiny extension).

I have a decent budget but don’t want to over-invest since this isn’t my forever home. I’d like to make changes that improve everyday living and retain resale value.

The problem is I’m totally stuck on where to start. An architect feels like overkill, but I don’t want to waste a builder’s time when I don’t have a clear plan. Storage is an issue—would an interior designer help with that, or are they more about soft furnishings and paint colours?

Really, I want someone to look at the whole house, help me make sense of my scattered ideas, and come up with a realistic plan that ties everything together (function, layout, and look) within a reasonable budget.

Does this kind of person exist? And if not, what would you do in my position?

The architect’s fee is definitely worth it. Look for someone that does interior architectural design. It will save time and money in the long run.
If you don’t want to go this route, there are several “design & build” firms who deliver a more standardised approach.

Sounds like you need a mix of architectural skills and interior designer.

Some friends paid an interior designer who advised on colour schemes, kitchen worktop, hardware and cupboard colours (they got their cabinets sprayed). The internal changes (moving walls) they planned themselves based on family
life/ how they want to live. Their house looks great.

do you know what you want your house to be overall/ final product? There are loads of things I think I want to do with my house which I think would make it better but ultimately I would still dislike the size and the location, and for the money could probably improve on one of those by moving. spending money on extending or rearranging would mean having to stay for longer because I don’t think I’d make the money back and would risk the house becoming bottom heavy.

Have you looked at what nearby houses have done to see if you like their ideas?

My partner wouldn't buy a house without a garage, is it a necessity where you are located? If you have a decent driveway then probably not an issue.

Thanks for responses.

@Elm1704 Not that far north although I used to work in the area and love it.

@OneCyanHiker That's my concern - spending money making changes and not getting the money back. I'm also not completely set on how the finished product should be. Just fed up with it as it is. But good point on looking at houses nearby.

@CommonAsMucklowe Everyone on the street has decent driveways and no-one uses their garage other than for storage.

I've called a few companies based on everyone's guidance so at least got the ball rolling and will see what they come back with.

2 years is not worth spending money on more than a lick of paint to make it liveable to your taste. The next owners will probably hate your colour scheme and replace it anyway

2x2 extension to create space to be used as what?
It would cost £ thousands you are unlikely to recover in 2 years of house inflation. Bear in mind the market is currently static and the general economic outlook on wages and jobs is questionable. Yes space adds "value", but that is not always certain of a profit.

Double check on your council website that you don't need planning permission to convert the garage. Best to know in advance.