Lots of people love where they live, but find that their home is just not quite big enough for, not only their young family, but for the elders in the family too.
There seems to be a new and growing trend for extended families to sell their properties and join the younger ones!
At DOMVS, we are find we are often asked for properties that have an annex, or at the least, a way to convert a space into an annex.
Many people are now faced with the decision to move or improve, but what is the best thing for your family and your finances?
What can you improve on in your home, to add value to your property, and add value to your family’s lifestyle?
Add a new bathroom?
An extra bathroom could be a strong selling point for your property. Is it possible for you to add another bathroom, or a small en-suite? We are finding that home buyers have an expectation of the Master bedroom, having an en-suite.
You can also make small changes to your bathroom to upgrade it, without spending a lot. Swap a shower curtain for glass, add new taps or upgrade an old radiator to a heated towel rail. This will add to the saleability of your home.
Do up your kitchen?
Home buyers looking at kitchen’s now, are expecting to see lifestyle aspiration – could you put a small island workspace in? Could you make it a social area – putting an easy chair or sofa in? What about a wine – fridge? At the least, modern living is now demanding a space for a utility room, and this will add ease to your family life (hiding the working machinations of the family home) and value and appeal to home buyers.
Extend out
A 30 square metre extension can add £14,000 to the value of your home, according to some mortgage companies. When extending your home, opt for a good-sized room that suits the existing style of your home or is bold enough to be a major selling point. An annex seems to be the most asked for, currently!
Extend up (or down)
A loft conversion can add significant value to your home especially if you’re creating an extra bedroom – add an ensuite to the layout, and section off a small dressing room area, and you have a winning combination.
Update the layout
Removing or moving internal walls can make a big difference to the value of your property and may not cost as much as heavy-duty improvements such as extensions. However, moving load-bearing walls may prove more costly. Get a builder in to have a chat about it. Modern home buyers are looking for light, spacious, open planned living areas. Great for family living, and will add to the saleability of your home.
Improve the outside space
Spruce up the garden
Building an extension that drastically reduces your garden space isn’t always the best option. Homebuyers are looking for decking areas, places to entertain, and places to relax in he garden. Make sure theses areas are obvious and well looked after. A well – manicured lawn is still at the top of the homebuyers list.
Convert the garage
If you don’t use your garage for parking your car, you could add value to your home by converting it into a living space. A home office, games room, kids’ room or home gym are all good options.
If you have questions or would like more information on what people are looking for in our area, please pop in for a coffee or give us a call.
