Have you or your family been contemplating adding a granny flat to your property? If so, there’s no better time to move forward than right now. Recent changes in Western Australia’s regulations have made it significantly easier and more attractive to build a granny flat, offering homeowners a range of benefits from streamlined approvals to potential income generation.
New Regulations: A Game Changer
Earlier this year, the WA government introduced new regulations that have simplified the process of building granny flats. These changes, implemented in April, have removed many of the barriers that previously made such projects cumbersome. The most significant of these changes is the ability to construct granny flats up to 70 square meters without needing planning approval. This shift means that homeowners no longer have to navigate the often lengthy and complex council processes that used to delay projects for months.
Streamlined Approval Process
Under the new regulations, the requirement for planning approvals has been eliminated, regardless of your property’s size. This is a significant shift that opens up opportunities for many homeowners who might have been hesitant to start a granny flat project due to the red tape involved. While you still need to obtain a building permit to ensure safety and compliance with building standards, the approval process for these permits has been greatly accelerated. Building permits are now processed within a maximum of 10 business days, allowing you to start construction more quickly than ever before.
When compared to larger-scale renovations or home extensions, building a granny flat is not only faster but also less disruptive. The process can be completed with minimal inconvenience while still delivering substantial benefits to your property.
A Smart Housing Solution
In today’s tight housing market, granny flats provide a versatile and cost-effective solution to various housing needs. Whether you’re looking to create an independent living space for older children who are ready for more autonomy, or you want to provide a comfortable home for elderly family members, a granny flat strikes the perfect balance between privacy and proximity to loved ones.
But the benefits don’t stop there. One of the most compelling reasons to build a granny flat now is the potential for rental income. The flexibility offered by the new regulations allows you to easily create a space that meets your family’s needs or serves as a lucrative rental property. With Perth’s competitive rental market, a well-designed granny flat can generate consistent passive income. Whether you opt for short-term rentals like Airbnb or long-term tenants, the financial benefits can be substantial.
Adding Value to Your Home
Beyond the immediate advantages of extra space and rental income, building a granny flat can significantly enhance your property’s value. It’s estimated that a well-constructed granny flat can boost your property value by up to 30 per cent. This makes it an excellent investment, especially if you plan to sell your home in the future. The added appeal of a self-contained dwelling can attract a broader range of potential buyers, increasing your chances of a successful sale.
Granny flats not only provide rental income while you still own the property, but they also make your home more attractive in the market, giving you the potential to earn more when you decide to sell.
Final Thoughts
With the WA government’s new rules making the construction of granny flats easier and faster, there’s truly never been a better time to explore this option. Whether you’re considering a granny flat for family use or as a rental opportunity, it could be the smart, practical solution you’ve been looking for.
If you’re ready to take the next step or if you’re even considering selling your current property to move into a home with a granny flat, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Contact Tim Gossage at 0411 284 074 or Daniel-Paul Filippi at 0412 991 361 today. They can help you navigate the process and provide valuable insights into the potential value of your property. Now is the perfect time to make the most of these new opportunities.
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