Planning a home purchase around the garage you want us to build

Most of our requests come from people who already own a property and want to change things, like by adding or expanding a garage. But sometimes they cannot legally build that on the property they already own. (Or, a previous owner did something without a permit and they are hoping they won't be fined and forced to tear the whole thing down.)

So, it is best to consult with specialists like ours prior to buying a home. (Occasionally, people have contacted us only a few days before their purchase of a home will be final... and, while we are open to helping on short notice IF we can, it is better to send us your request sooner rather than later.)

So, here is a recent example. Near Phoenix is retirement community (must be over 55 to live there) called Sun City. A gentleman who is planning to buy a home there wrote us this: I want to move to Sun City, but want a large garage in the back yard. How can I find out which houses or neighborhoods will permit a garage? Here is my first response: You may not have a lot of options for sale now within the city limits there. Best would be this area (just west of 111th Ave between Peoria & Olive). [The lots there are very large and have great access to the backyard.] Otherwise, the biggest issue is not permitting, but physical access. See these 2 examples below of a corner lot and an oddly-shaped lot on a Cul-de-sac. (I can also refer you to a realtor there if you'd like.)

For a backyard garage, only the first one of the 3 looks like a great set-up. #3 is pretty good though too. I am assuming a standard height garage. If you want to park something taller like an RV or boat, the first one is the only realistic option of those 3. (More comments below the photos.) Look at this nice wide access... with the driveway already poured:

Note plenty of room in the top (northern) corner: (so... the big issue for me is not "if" you can do it, but just exactly how big / where to position it)

As for the other 2 lots... For #2, that is my least favorite for the purpose you stated. Yes I would expect that you could legally do it. I doubt that I would. First, there is something just to the right of the driveway. If that is related to water or any other utility, then the permit issue might be a "solid no." Otherwise, I would expand that main driveway further to the right / property line, remove all the pavers etc on that side (the south side) and then build the garage toward the southeast corner of the lot. But... the existing set-up of the backyard would make all of that awkward (and more expensive)... even though legally sure the permit might be easy. #3: For #3, the backyard is big and open so that is good. The roof probably needs to be replaced (& I am not sure how current the photos are that I see). The obstructive features that I see across the front yard would be easy to remove. Then, you could add a driveway on the right to access the back yard. But... that access would be a bit tight. But #1 is by far the best to me of these 3 for adding a backyard garage.

planning a turnkey construction service for your new garage

So, from guiding people in regard to which lots to consider for a garage (or a new home)... to giving a rough idea of costs, we are able to help people plan not just a garage, but the purchase of a certain home that is a good fit for the garage they want to build. As for the garage itself, we also have a library of floor plans from past projects. We can help you identify your priorities efficiently, assess your budget relative to your priorities, then find a lot and/or design that best suits your needs.

Realistically, most people in Phoenix who are looking for a new garage mainly just want a certain size within their budget (plus to have the appearance fit the rest of the home and property, plus any rules like from the HOA). But we also can offer a variety of features, like upgraded electrical power and outlets, plumbing (or even a full bathroom), and cooling / climate control (such as a mini-split AC). Not only can we help you determine what is legal and what is practical, but what is the best value for your needs.

Are you looking forward to working with us? We are too!

Our garage builders in Phoenix AZ are also general contractors

Last, what if you need other home improvements besides the construction of your new garage (such as a new roof, landscaping, or just some interior renovations)? We will help you!

When you contact us today, you can either request to have a quote on each aspect of the project independently or one quote to include everything. (To contact us now, click here: Request a garage construction estimate in Phoenix.)