New build: single or two story

[Nectar]

Hi all

We are looking at a 533m2 section that based on site coverage allows us to build on approximately a 210m2 footprint. We are now debating the pros and cons about whether we should actually use the full 210m2 for a single level 4brm home with 2 living areas, or achieve a similar size home (say 230m2) two story with around a 150m2 footprint. The additional floor area on the two story property is taking into account the need to have 12m2 of stair case and around 8m2 for an additional bathroom and/or voids to get a similar usable home as the single story.

Has anyone been through a similar thought process to us?

I'm assuming that a singe level home will be cheaper to build but the downside is we will have a lesser size garden/section.

Cheers,
N

[PTILoveYou]

If this is Auckland, no brainer build two storeys.

Also is this a development to be sold for profit? If yes then work with a good local agent and see the demand.

[Beano]

Yes it is 15pc
and Yes you lose space to the stairway
But in Auckland in go for 2 in fact try for three for extra space for garaging (I had the same situation one or two managed to get 3 on a 100m2 footprint. Paid the extra ...never regretted it!)

[Nectar]

If this is Auckland, no brainer build two storeys.

Also is this a development to be sold for profit? If yes then work with a good local agent and see the demand.

Thanks Gary. Not Auckland but Wellington.

Why do you think it is a no-brainer? I was thinking with the aging population that single level might be more desirable in the longer term.

The plan is to build for long term hold.

[PTILoveYou]

Thanks Gary. Not Auckland but Wellington.

Why do you think it is a no-brainer? I was thinking with the aging population that single level might be more desirable in the longer term.

The plan is to build for long term hold.

In Auckland every is trying build as much m2 on limited land as possible. With the abundance of Chinese and recent immigrant home buyers, big houses tend to get top dollar too.

As for Wellington, then definitely see what the market appetite is. Since it's long term hold, just work out the best arrangement for maximising rent.

I think single level in your case for buy and hold is better, no need for big scaffolding when you are doing maintenance on the roof.

[elguapo]

Has anyone been through a similar thought process to us?

Everyone is building the biggest possible house on the smallest possible section. That should tell you what the economics are....

[artemis]

These days a garden is not necessarily a selling point for tenants. Depends on your target market I guess, but overall maintaining gardens in a rental is probably either a hassle or expensive.

4 bedrooms is more likely targeted at families though.

[Jamus]

If Inner city suburbs I would be doing two (I'm Having plans done at the moment to do this on a small section in Mt Cook Welly)