Easy ways to add value to your property Posted On 07 August 2019
Whether you are carrying out a home renovation project, remodelling or simply giving your home a bit of a makeover, our top tips will have you covered for boosting the value of your home
Even if you are not thinking of selling your house right now, it’s good to know how to add value to your property. Certain projects are guaranteed to not only boost its kerb appeal but also its value.
Converting a Garage
If your property benefits from the use of a garage and you are not using it to store the car, you could consider converting it into a living space. Your first step should be to check if the conversion requires planning permission.
You could even consider converting the garage into a studio, gym or games room to give your property a unique feature.
Extensions
Whether it is by means of a conservatory, or a formal extension, extending the living space can add a significant boost to your home’s value. A conservatory will bring you closer to the outside and would typically cost less than a formal extension. Usually, they don’t require planning permission; however, your main dilemma would be choosing which glass to opt for as you will want your conservatory to be as efficient as possible.
There are a range of different styles of conservatories too, from traditional to modern, so it’s best to find one which suits your house and lifestyle. If you already have a conservatory, add a tiled roof to improve insulation and increase your home’s value.
Extra kitchen and utility space can also add valuable space to your property and considerably improve the layout too. Kitchens can sell a home, so offering more units and worktop space may mean you can aim for a higher asking price.
Kerb & Garden Appeal
Garden space can be limited, so if you’ve got it, make sure you’re making the most of it!
A deck or patio can transform a garden into an entertaining space, and when designed as an additional room, a summer house can also add value to your property.
First impressions are essential, with most buyers deciding if they like a property before they even get out of the car; it can be hard to shake off negative first impressions created by a poor or unattractive exterior. So if you’re selling, give your home some kerb appeal with a lick of paint, a new door and repointing brickwork. Tidy up the garden by mowing the lawn and sweeping up leaves.
Solve Structural Problems
Structural issues such as subsidence can, in some cases, be likely to be amongst the most expensive work required in a renovation project but, in terms of adding value, they are absolutely essential. If you are unsure about confusing structural defects with purely cosmetic faults, then consult a builder, surveyor or structural engineer.
Keep Leases Up to Date and Apply for Planning Permission
Properties with diminishing leases decrease in value once they have less than 60 years remaining and it can be hard to get a mortgage on a property with a short lease; so ensure the lease is kept topped up.
Applying for planning permission, and having it granted, is also a great incentive for someone to buy and the scope for potential could add thousands to your asking price, even without you carrying any work out!
Decorating
Decorating may seem like only a small job that wouldn’t directly affect the value of your property: however, dated decor and superficial defects could deter potential buyers and effect you receiving your asking price.
Typical defects such as mouldy sealants in the bathroom, peeling paint, loose tiles and damaged windows will put many buyers off – but are easily resolved by any competent DIYer.
Loft Conversion
A loft conversion does seem like a costly investment, but would give you more space and huge potential. In terms of adding value, it is likely to be a very good investment providing it adds more accommodation than it takes away (remember you need to make room for a staircase in the existing space).
According to a recent survey by sellhousefast.uk, on average a loft conversion adds £23,754.57 to a property’s value. Natural light can be brought in either via dormer windows or roof lights.
A loft conversion does not normally require planning consent, as it uses existing volume; however it is always worth checking with the planners.
Remodel to Add Value
One of the best ways to add value to a home? Change the existing layout before you consider extending!
Maximum value will be added by improving the main living spaces, such as the kitchen, dining and living area and the way in which they work together. Think about removing dividing walls to create open plan spaces. Fewer but larger rooms with clear sight lines will make a house seem larger, especially if the flooring and wall finishes continue throughout.
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