You should definitely get at least a few different quotes. Construction business is really down right now, and a lot of workers are looking for side work. My brother-in-law is one of those, and he has been doing as many side jobs as he can.

You might be able to find a team of people that will do it for you within your budget. On the flip side of that though, you need to make sure that they are all licensed and insured. Because it the business is so slow right now, there are a lot of people that will do it for cheaper, but might not be fully bonded. Gotta make sure they check out.

And yah, make sure you have all your permits before you start. Or hire a general contractor to handle it all for you. You can get slapped with some pretty heavy fines if you are building a new structure where you aren't supposed to.

 

And make sure YOU see and have the permits. Electrical, plumbing, inspections etc etc. Beacuase the contractors will never be held liable, but you will.


And ElTianti, I found you a nice cheap lift http://www.directlift.ca/OH-8000.htm

That's Canadian pricing, I bet you'd have it for less!

 

You must be a mind reader, a lift is exactly what I was thinking. That's why I wanted a two story building, for a extra height garage. Th workshop would have a 2nd floor loft.

 

Awesome!!! I'm so jealous.

Please make sure you document every aspect of this build with info and pictures so we condo-living folks can live vicariously.

Man, if I were building my own garage, there are so many thing's I do. There would be aisles of shelving similar to what's behind the counter at an auto parts store, with plenty of room for multiple sections including spare parts, cleaning & detailing supplies, large power tools, etc etc etc. For a kid who was exceptionally messy as a child, I'm surprised how excited I get over organization and order.

And don't forget to prewire for surround sound.

 

[QUOTE=MikeyCB,May 19 2010, 09:44 AM] Awesome!!! I'm so jealous.

Please make sure you document every aspect of this build with info and pictures so we condo-living folks can live vicariously.

Man, if I were building my own garage, there are so many thing's I do.

 

Congrats on the purchase. I love craftman-style homes. I hope the prior owners didn't paint all of the interior moldings.

Have you considered where you'll want to live post-residency? Will it be in Rome?

A two story garage/workshop will appeal to very few buyer, in the event you want to sell in the future and move on. You may want to ensure the design supports a conversion to living quarters (electrical and rough plumbing), which would add potential value to a non-auto enthusiast.

Also, it looks like you can see the current out-building (lower picture, right side). Will a two story garage overwhelm the bungalow? You'll want to ensure design and scale are complimentary between the house and garage.

Not trying to take the edge off your excitement, but you don't want to impair a sizeable investment by poor expansion.

 

[QUOTE=RUGBY,May 19 2010, 04:33 PM]Congrats on the purchase.

 

I built something similar but in a metal building for just over $16k and that included a bedroom and full bath in it so yes, it's possible.

I don't know construction prices in GA, but lots of family there and usually when we are comparing prices things cost less there than they do in Texas.

As far as price pre sq foot on new construction I own a mortgage company and get to see all kinds of structures and around here $80 -$125 seems to be the norm for housing of a decent quality.

 

My suggestion is to design with full functionality and get multiple bids on the project. You can always eliminate if you exceed your budget.

For a multi-car garage with workshop/office, you'll want to make sure you have enough power as well as plumbing for a work sink. To put up that type of new structure, without a bathroom, would be a mistake, IMO. Are you putting in heating?

Will it be going on a slab or do you have to have a foundation? I would guess the contractor will need to bring in some type of heavy equipment. At that point, tie-ins to the plumbing would be relative easy and much cheaper than a retro-fit later.

End of day, you want to ensure the garage adds value to you, and to potential future purchasers. Plumbing, heating and electrical will do both.

 

Bump! Update!