A second home on your doorstep
You may want to buy a new property for many different reasons. Whether you want to upgrade, downsize, invest, or relocate, buying your first or even second home can have many logistical issues that prevent you from doing so.
But, there is a way! Your dream second home may not be out of reach; in fact, it’s only a short walk from your current home. Garden housing offers a great alternative to navigating an unpredictable housing market.
What’s the difference between a garden room and an annexe?
You may be thinking, “Isn’t a garden house and a garden room the same?” But they’re actually very different.
Annexes are designed to comply with building regulations so they can provide permanent garden housing accommodation for families or tenants. Garden rooms may be designed within your permitted development rights. However, they aren’t suitable for ‘living in’ and are better off used for office spaces, gyms and other leisurely activities.
1 Increase property value
A tried-and-true way of increasing the value of your home has always been to extend it in some way, whether that be a conservatory, loft conversion or garden housing!
Creating more liveable space in your home drastically increases its value as you add a second property onto your existing one with an annexe.
It’s a versatile option that allows homeowners to enjoy making the most of their original investment by developing on their land to increase their home’s appeal and overall market value.
2. First time buyer solution
For first-time buyers, buying a home has never been more difficult. Paul Broadhead, head of mortgage and housing policy at the BSA, states, “Becoming a first-time buyer is possibly the most expensive it has been over at least the last 70 years.” highlighting how challenging it has become for young people to step onto the property ladder, pushing many to consider alternatives like renting or shared ownership.
One innovative option is living in an annexe, as this can offer a more affordable route to homeownership, significantly reducing costs compared to traditional property options. For instance, purchasing a studio flat in London might set you back around £160,000 if you’re fortunate. In contrast, garden annexes start at £81,745—almost half the cost of a London studio.
Rather than rushing to move out, investing in enhancing the family home could be more practical, creating a more cost-effective housing solution.
3. Granny Annexe
The term ‘granny annexe’ has become widely recognised for its use in housing elderly relatives, allowing them to live with family while maintaining the independence that care homes often lack.
In the long run, garden housing offers a more cost-effective alternative to assisted living facilities. Care homes can cost as much as £1,500 per week, often separating individuals from their loved ones. In contrast, a granny annexe is a valuable investment, providing a more affordable long-term solution while keeping family members nearby.
What’s included in an annexe?
1. Heating
As part of the standard package, your our garden housing has energy-efficient wall-mounted heaters, with at least one heater per room. Larger rooms may include additional heaters, determined during the electrical planning stage. If preferred, you can upgrade to air conditioning units or underfloor heating.
2. Painting & Plastering
Your annexe will come in a clean, modern matte white finish. Would you prefer a pop of colour? No problem! Choose your paint from brands like Dulux, Crown, Laura Ashley, or Farrow & Ball; our team will handle the rest.
3. Kitchen
We offer two stylish kitchen layouts: a sleek straight unit or a more spacious L-shaped design. Both come fully equipped with a 70/30 fridge-freezer, induction hob, sink with draining board, slide-and-hide single oven, and extractor hood. Need more storage? You can easily add top cupboards to your layout.
4. Plumbing
Garden housing comes equipped with up to 10 meters of cold-water piping, ensuring seamless water access. We include up to 10 meters of foul piping for wastewater and a soakaway system for efficient drainage.
5. Electrics & Connections
Convenience is key. Each annexe includes five double-recessed plug sockets thoughtfully placed for easy access. Interior and exterior lighting options are also included, enhancing comfort and function.
6. Planning
We make the planning process stress-free by providing a dedicated consultant to guide you. Plus, planning permission is included in the price of our garden annexes!
7. Foundations & Building Control
Your annexe is built on a solid concrete pad foundation, installed by our expert team and signed off by building control for peace of mind.
8. Installation
Our experienced installation teams ensure the garden housing buildings are assembled to the high standards you expect from Green Retreats from start to finish.
9. Internal & External Lighting
Choose from various tailored lighting solutions for both inside and outside your annexe. A 2-way consumer unit (fuse box) ensures your electrical system is safe and efficient.
10. 2.3m French Doors or Sliding Doors
Enjoy our garden housing natural lighting and easy access with our premium 2.3m French doors or sliding doors, adding a stylish touch to your annexe.
GARDEN HOUSE ENQUIRY
Let us know your question about garden housing below and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible to help you further.
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