Home improvements that could add value to your home

Investing in your home, whether to get it ready to sell or to help add value long term, can be a wise move.  There are plenty of ways to help improve the value of your home, but if you are thinking of making improvements to sell it is important to seek advice from a local estate agent before committing to any changes.  An estate agent will be able to advise you about the house prices in your area and what type of property sells well.  Every home has a ceiling price so if you are improving your home to sell you need to check that your money is spent in the best way possible.  Some ways you can add value are;

Add a loft conversion

A loft conversion is often seen as the most cost effective and least disruptive way to gain extra living space.  Costs can vary depending on whether you add an ensuite bathroom or increase the loft space by adding a dormer window.  You will have to check with the planning department, but this type of development does not always need planning permission.  However, any renovation must meet building and fire regulations.

Add an extension

Adding an extension can create more living space.  Side return extensions are popular, using empty space to the side of a property can make a real difference.  Just getting the planning permission to extend, without undertaking the work itself, can increase the value of your property.   For a potential buyer this could give them the freedom to extend as they wish and shows the possibilities to improve the property.

Add a new kitchen

An attractive kitchen can help entice buyers and add value.  A good amount of storage and a practical layout are key.  According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors a good kitchen can add up to 4% to the value of your property. 

Add a new bathroom or second bathroom

A good, fresh and light bathroom will be attractive to buyers.  Adding an ensuite or extra bathroom can increase the value of your property by up to 5%, according to Nationwide Building Society. 

Create off street parking

Parking can often be important, especially in built up urban areas.  Consider sacrificing some of your front garden to create a parking space.  For many people a driveway is more appealing than a front garden, that may be rarely used. 

Remodel the layout of your home

You could consider changing the layout of your home to make it more practical.  Sometimes having fewer rooms but a larger space can improve the appeal of a property.  Kitchen/diners are often seen as being a good use of space and more practical for families.

If you are thinking of making changes to your home there are a number of tradespeople on Trust Local who can help you transform your property.