Building/Construction advice

shanagarry · Post by **shanagarry** » Tue Dec 18, 2007 3:09 pm

Is it possible to get a builder or architect to give us some advice as to what we can and cannot do in respect of modernisation and enlargement of our property in Cvo.

We are planning on a permanent move in mid 2009 but for some considerable time, when asking the 'professionals' we are asked to pay a retainer or have plans drawn before we know what shape the project is going to be.

Surely there must be builders or architects who can put a basic shape diagram together and indicate a cost - is there?

tbbr · Post by **tbbr** » Tue Dec 18, 2007 6:45 pm

We had the same problem when we first started on the process.

I think that you just have to bite the bullet and budget for a design and then allow 8oo-1000euros M2 for your building costs.

shanagarry · Post by **shanagarry** » Wed Dec 19, 2007 2:23 pm

Hi tbbr

Thank you - that's progress. Does that amount cover architects fees, building and fitting out or is it purely the cost to construct it?

tbbr · Post by **tbbr** » Wed Dec 19, 2007 5:34 pm

Our " Build " from the ground up will have cost us in the region of 1000eurosM2 but does include all our extras like central heating, landscaping, solar water system, fully fitted kitchen pool etc.

The basic package was around the 800 but of course things always get changed and upgraded.

This did not include all the fees and liscences ( add another 10% ) but the architect was included in the original package.

If you want I wil PM you with details of our builder

shanagarry · Post by **shanagarry** » Mon Jan 14, 2008 1:26 pm

Hi tbbr

That would be really helpful. Did the builder find you the architect?

tbbr · Post by **tbbr** » Mon Jan 14, 2008 7:46 pm

Yes it all came as a package , it may have taken us longer than expected but we cant wait to move out later this year.

Just waiting for habitation liscence.

Please PM and I will send you details, do you already have a plot and design ??

shanagarry · Post by **shanagarry** » Sat Jan 26, 2008 6:59 pm

We have a property on a 2,480m2 plot with enviable sea views - the existing building taking up 169m2. Ideally we need 250m2 of built area and have been looking for 2 years to find a location with the same, let alone better, position - without success. Having the property offshore in Malta hasn't helped matters either.

As a result our first preference is to try to extend and modernise the current property - it is alot less expensive than moving - but could be more stressful.

I have contacted the name you gave me and he has started looking and drawing ahead of our visit in late February - without any retainer nonsense.

I like the guy's approach and is even prepared to enter into a 'swap' - if it comes to it (for one of the properties they have built) if we cannot achieve the building size we are hoping for. I managed to do that here in the UK a few years ago but never thought a Portuguese builder would be that enterprising.

I will let you know as we go but for now ... thank you for your generous input and assistance - it is much appreciated.

Building/Construction advice

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