Thinking About Buying a Home? Here’s Why You Should, Probably, Speak to an Architect First

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Why You Should Speak to An Architect

I often come across articles and posts online that completely misunderstand/ misrepresent planning policy. It’s one of the biggest pitfalls for homebuyers. Homebuyers end up relying on oversimplified advice, social media “tips,” or generic articles, then base major purchase decisions on assumptions that simply aren’t accurate.

Planning policy is complex and varies by local authority, context, and even the history of a specific property. When buyers try to guess what they might be able to extend, convert, or build, it can quickly lead to costly mistakes later on.

This is exactly why it’s worth speaking to an architect during the buying process. A short pre-purchase consultation can save you significant time, money, and uncertainty.

Over the years, I’ve helped many homeowners at the pre-purchase stage, offering a grounded, professional second opinion on the properties they’re viewing. It’s a very cost-effective way to understand a home’s true potential in line with planning regulations.

Why a Pre-Purchase Consultation Helps

A pre-purchase consultation gives you clarity on:

• What you can realistically extend or modify

• Whether your ideas fall under Permitted Development

• What will require planning permission

• Any planning risks or constraints to be aware of

• Whether the layout is workable long-term

• The broad cost implications of any future changes

It essentially de-risks your decision. You know what’s realistic, what isn’t, and where the value truly lies.

How Our Consultation Works

Before the call, I’ll review:

• The estate agent listing

• Floor plans and photographs

• Any site constraints

• Anything else you want to send over in advance

We then go through everything in a 60-minute Google Meet. I’ll talk you through what’s possible, what may be challenging, and what to keep in mind long-term. The advice is honest, straightforward, and based on years of experience dealing with planning policy, design, and construction across the region.

Architects Fee

The fixed fee for the Pre-Purchase Consultation is: £187

This includes:

• A full desktop review before the call

• The 60-minute video consultation

• A follow-up email summarising the key points

If you’d like an additional call later on, that can be arranged at £110 per hour.

Speak with Peter

• Know what you can actually extend or change — based on real planning policy, not online guesses.
• Understand the planning risks early so you don’t buy a home with hidden constraints.
• Check whether your ideas fall under Permitted Development or require full planning permission.
• Get a professional view on layout and long-term usability before committing.
• Sense-check future costs so the purchase still makes financial sense.
• Spot opportunities and red flags with an architect’s trained eye.
• Make a confident, informed decision with a clear written summary after the call.

Or, if you’d prefer, feel free to email me directly with any questions:
peter@markosdesignworkshop.com