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The economic turmoil of the country has meant that many homeowners have been reluctant to move, and instead are opting to renovate their own properties. Far more than just a simple facelift, there are lots of ways to provide more space and increase the value of your own home.
Increasing the Value of Your Property
Whether you are still planning to move in the future, or simply want to make the most of where you are now, there are many options to consider. Here are a few of the most effective ways you can increase the value of your property.
Loft Conversion
If you’re short of a bedroom or just need an extra room, extending upwards with a loft conversion is a popular option. When done well, this has the potential to add around 15% to the value of your property.
Not all lofts can be converted but many can, although some will be easier than others. A builder or architect will be able to let you know the type of conversion you’ll need and the likely cost. Expect to pay around £500-600/m² and you should be more or less on budget.
Some loft conversions can be carried out legally without the need for planning permission which makes it quicker and easier. Others need to be cleared with your local planning department first, but your architect can help you with this process.
Converting a loft may also mean some changes to your existing upstairs rooms too as you’ll need a place to situate the staircase plus fire doors too.
Extensions
The most surefire way to add value to your property is by increasing the size. This is most easily achieved by building an extension, either single or double storey.
Enlarging a kitchen is one of the most common reasons to build an extension but you may want to create an additional living space, or if you’re building on two storeys, perhaps you need an additional bedroom. Extending your home to add an extra bedroom could boost your property value by around 10% so it’s a good way to increase its worth.
Making the Most of Your Space
If you have a shed, workshop or garage, are you making the most of the space you have available? Or, like many others, have you used the areas as a general dumping ground for junk and storage that you never get round to sorting?
Using your garage as an extra area for your home is something that is often overlooked, but it can be a great asset. Installing automated roller garage doors can make entrance convenient and easy, and secure too.
Whether you need a workshop, a gym or just a general chill-out zone, it’s possible to upgrade a garage or other outside space to be warm, functional and comfortable to spend lots of time in.
Even if you don’t want to use your garage as an additional room, installing automated doors can increase your property value. It adds an instant touch of luxury and will be a selling point for any buyer.
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Good Maintenance
Although it won’t actually create more space, having a home that’s well maintained and looked after can make it more functional. And when it comes to selling, you’ll find it so much easier if it’s in top condition.
Central heating and double glazing are two things that buyers look for, and installing either of these may be a cost but will add lots of £££s to your property. The other benefit is that while you’re living there, your home will be warmer and protected from outside noise pollution too.
If you have a cellar or a basement conversion, maximising the amount of light and air will be a priority. Window wells covers can improve the landscaping of the overall design as well as protecting against damage and decay.
A small upgrade such as window well covers can make a surprising amount of difference to the value of a house. By the same token, having poorly fitted, old or rusty window well covers can be a real negative. Therefore paying attention to these smaller areas and upgrading them should be on your list. The advantage is that it won’t cost too much but will make a big difference to the overall appearance.
Maximising Your Value
Whether you decide to stay or move, making the most of your property’s value is a good plan. It means you’ll maximise the equity eventually and as well as having a pleasant place to live, it will be valuable too.
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