Will you ‘love it or list it’ was the question asked by Kirstie and Phil in a recent TV home makeover series, a spin-off of the long running Location Location Location. When you’re not sure whether to stay put and renovate the family home, or add value before putting it on the market, here are 5 building projects that can make all the difference.
- Going up
An additional bedroom will add up to around 15% to the value of your property. If your roof space is suitable, and most are, why not convert your attic to an ensuite bathroom? The majority of loft conversion designs don’t even need planning permission as they fall within ‘permitted development’.
If you’re not sure whether your loft can be converted, your first port of call should be a loft conversion expert to get professional advice. Experienced building companies will also be able to recommend the best type of design for your home, from straightforward Velux loft conversions to adding dormer windows for extra floor space or raising the ridge height.
“If your property has insufficient standing room in the existing loft space, a loft extension that includes a ‘roof lift’ may be able to provide the extra head height. Literally ‘raising the roof’ will require planning permission as the existing roof is removed to enable ridgeline and pitch adjustments to be made. This type of loft conversion is recommended for detached houses and where maximising property values is the main objective.” ASpec Surrey Loft Conversion specialists.
Also check with your local planning authority to see whether your plans exceed permitted development rights; the rules can be complex.
- Digging down
If your loft is unsuitable or has already been converted, how about going down into the ground? Basement conversions have gained in popularity in recent years and are a particularly desirable option for terraced houses with limited development space.
Transforming an existing cellar into habitable space can add up to a third to the property value as long as the build cost per square foot is less than the land value. This type of project may in fact be on of the least complex improvements you can make, and planning permission shouldn’t be required unless it’s a listed building.
Properties that don’t have a cellar are at a disadvantage in terms of the complexity of the build and the costs involved. But if you are happy to deal with excavation, structural engineering and waterproofing experts, to mention just a few contractors, you can add valuable square footage to the building.
- Down the side
Ask any estate agent and they will tell you that it’s kitchens that sell houses. Terraced and semi-detached houses have the opportunity to extend the kitchen into the adjacent narrow alley side return and make the property worth up to 15% more in the process.
A clever single storey extension should be filled with light – via a skylight from above if necessary – and generously proportioned so that the kitchen can properly fulfil its function as the heart of the home. Here are a few fantastic examples of how this could work in your house. Why not tap into the current trend for open plan kitchen/diners and open up the space to include a breakfast area or dining table?
- Into the garage
Assuming you have an integral garage as well as a private drive for parking your car and you don’t mind your car being kept outside, it might make sense to convert the garage space into an additional reception area, home study or guest bedroom.
As long as the structure is sound and the build complies with building regulation specifications, a successful garage conversion can yield a 15% uplift in property value. What’s more, in many cases this type of conversion falls under permitted development rights, meaning you probably don’t need to obtain planning permission. Check with your local planning department just to be sure.
- Bringing the outside in
Are you making the most of your garden? Properties with outdoor space should ensure they maximise this amenity. Installing a conservatory is a great solution that will help you bring the outside in and getting a greater sense of connection with Mother Nature. What’s more, it can increase your property value by 10%.
Choose a fully glazed conservatory with elements that meet building regulations and are energy efficient too. The material of the frame – timber, aluminium, UPVC – will directly affect thermal performance and you can even get self-cleaning and solar controlled glazing options that are worth considering.
