Property Value – if you would like to make the most out of your property so you can sell it or rent it out, maybe you would like to make the most out of your available space and turn your property into your dream home. Whatever your plan is read on to find out our top 10 tips to increase your property value.
Turn your property into flats
Converting your property into flats is popular these days. In places such as London, where units are in such high demand it can often make the property easier to rent out. Converting your house could be an excellent way to maximise your potential revenue both short and long-term.
Before you start, make sure you have researched your area and checked what demand is like for flats. Investigate what price they are renting for, what works in one area may not give you the same ROI somewhere else.
Convert your garage into an extra room
If you are not planning on using the garage for your car and the area doesn’t have any parking restrictions. Converting the garage is a significant step.
You will first need to make sure the garage is suitable. Often, converting a garage is classed as permitted development. Meaning you will not need planning permission, but always check first with your planning authority.
A garage conversion is going to be subject to building regulations. Ensure it is well-built and structurally sound. You can use an independent service to check or consult your local council’s building control service. They will visit the premises and check for things such as electrical, plumbing, roof, and walls. And they will make sure the whole structure complies with regulations.
Converting your cellar
If you are fortunate enough to have a property with a cellar, you can look at converting this area. The basement has some distinct advantages such as naturally keeping cooler in the summer, thus making a cellar an excellent room for keeping those ageing bottles of wine or using it as a playroom. This conversion can be one of the least difficult to start with as it qualifies as a change of use for planning purposes. Meaning you don’t need to apply for planning permission. However, if you make structural changes, you must consult your local planning officer.
If you don’t have a cellar, you could consider digging down and building one from scratch. But please be aware this type of building work is a very specialist job, so please consult a structural engineer before doing any work.
Extending your kitchen both on the side and back
The term side return refers to the narrow alley that runs adjacent to the kitchen and is typical in terraced or semi-detached houses. Extending the kitchen out sideways gives you the extra space needed to house items such as dishwashers and dryers, leaving more room in the main kitchen area.
A single-storey side-return extension will typically be permitted. Providing the extension doesn’t exceed specific criteria such as being over four meters high or half the width of the original property.
You must follow all building regulations and inform your local authorities who will make regular visits during the development and afterwards. Once completed and you have met all the rules you will then be provided with a completion certificate.
Tip: When converting sideways, you will probably lose light coming in from a side window that was previously there, making the kitchen area darker. But you can save this problem with single-storey development by installing a ceiling light such as a roof window.
Adding a conservatory
A conservatory is a light open space that gives you the feeling of being outdoors but without the effects of the wind and rain. They can be a very tranquil addition to your property or an excellent area for the kids to play.
The most important thing to consider with a conservatory is the glass you use. Explore your options carefully, or you could end up unintentionally adding a greenhouse when it is sunny or a noisy room when it rains. There is a whole host of glazing options on the market, including solar control glass and self-cleaning glass. But, think about which will best suit your property when adding value to your prospective buyers or what most suits your lifestyle.
When it comes to the frame, you can choose between materials such as uPVC, timber, or aluminium. All these materials have their qualities so ask an expert for advice before deciding.
A conservatory is considered a permitted development provided you meet the various conditions. Most of the time a conservatory is exempt but things such as how you will be accessing it, for example, will you need to remove a door or wall? Also, consider the effect the conservatory may have on the energy rating of your property before you begin.
Converting your loft
Converting your loft can be a great way to add an extra bedroom to the property. If space is big enough, it is worth considering including an en-suite as this also adds to the number of bathrooms you have.
Once you have decided you go ahead, then you need to determine the type of conversion you would like to do. The options range from a straightforward light conversion to a more complex mansard conversion.
A mansard can also be referred to as a French roof is a four-sided gambrel-style hip roof. A mansard has two slopes on each side at different angles a lower and steeper slope. This roof type can contain a dormer window.
Mansard conversions will need planning permission. But most loft conversions are considered as permitted development. However, please check with your local planning authority before starting.
Adding an extra bathroom
An additional bathroom will increase your property’s value and will also be a handy addition to your home.
If you have the space available, it could be as small as a toilet under the staircase or a full bath and shower unit. Also, tiled walls can help keep the room clean and easy to maintain.
Landscaping the garden
Gardens are now becoming more limited, especially in cities such as London, so if you have an outdoor space, make the most of it. Even if you are not a garden person are well-landscaped garden can add value to your property and help attract higher offers.
Adding flowers can make a big deal when it comes to first impressions. Also, a patio or decking area can transform your garden into an additional space for entertaining guests or having a summer barbecue.
Applying for planning permission to build an extension
Planning permission can be a straightforward way of adding extra value to your property. Merely being granted planning permission can entice more buyers. As they will know that they can extend the property after they purchase.
Creating an open-plan living room
Creating an open-plan living room can make the property look and feel more spacious. But, please consult with an expert before knocking down any walls or doing any significant structural changes. Sometimes the wall in question is classed as a load-bearing wall so you will need to support the structure if it’s removed. If you do the work without fully understanding the consequences, the results could prove to be disastrous.
This guide should give you a few ideas on how you can improve your property. These ideas are not only for financial gain, but you will also enhance your living conditions if you decide to stay.
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DISCLAIMER: These articles are for information only and should not be construed as advice. You should always seek advice prior to taking any action.
