In recent years there has been an increase in popularity of granny flats in Newcastle and the Central Coast granny flats, stemming from strong housing price growth and the need for affordable housing.
Whether you are looking to increase the value of your property or need a separate living space for family, a granny flat has a lot of value.
There is some misinformation about granny flats in the marketplace and we decided we would tackle some of the top myths about granny flats we often get asked.
1. It takes a long time to get granny flat approval
In 2009 the NSW Government introduced the Affordable Housing SEPP to increase the supply and availability of affordable rental housing. Provided you meet the minimum criteria for a granny flat, it is actually possible to get a granny flat approved via a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) in as little as 10 days from submission to a private certifier. Find out about the Backyard Grannys process here.
2. The size of the granny flat doesn’t matter
In NSW a granny flat can be built under a Complying Development to a maximum of 60m2, however some local councils allow you to build a bigger floorspace under a Development Application. You are also able to add on carports and patios and these are not included in the 60m2. Most councils in the Newcastle and Central Coast region also allow an attached garage! But we recommend checking with your local council first.
3. You have to subdivide your property to build a granny flat
A granny flat is considered to be a secondary dwelling and needs to have a primary dwelling on the same block. If you subdivide your property you would need to build a primary dwelling prior to building a secondary dwelling (granny flat).
4. You can’t use a granny flat as an additional rental property
In New South Wales you are legally allowed to rent out your granny flat, however, in some states such as Victoria and South Australia it is illegal to rent out your granny flat. Building a granny flat for investment purposes is an excellent way to maximise your property and earn an income. There are many more benefits to using a granny flat as an investment asset, find out more here.
5. A granny flat is just a cheap, low quality kit home
In the past, a granny flat has been perceived as a basic shed out the back and whilst there are multiple cheap kit style granny flats on the market, that is not your only option. You can build an architecturally designed granny flat that is not only stylish but also built on site just like a small home. At Backyard Grannys we have multiple designs to suit every block. Click here to view our full range of designs.
Now that we have exposed 5 granny flat myths, we hope this information is helpful for you to determine if a granny flat is the right choice for you.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 4947 2800 or fill in the form below. As Newcastle and Central Coasts granny flat experts, we have the right knowledge to help you on this journey.
