City AM reported that house prices in London dropped by 1.4 per cent in August, growing at a lower level than last year. London also fuelled the drop as the capital suffered the UK’s biggest annual fall and the south east house prices were 0.6 per cent.
Brexit adds further instability and uncertainty, but what does that mean for those who are thinking of moving home. It may not be financially secure decision at this time, but there are other alternatives to consider. So whether it is for pleasure or for the purpose of adding value, we have shared with you some tips for home improvements. Taking into consideration budget and as little disruption as possible. Without forgetting that some of the more expensive jobs could add more value, saving money in the long run, avoiding more expensive problems and making more economical sense.
FIXING FOUNDATIONS
Any good home and property starts with a good foundation. Making sure your property is in sound and good structural shape is always important. Although, structural work can be the most expensive, at the same time it could add the most value. Fixing roofs, taking care of subsistence, dampness, dealing with any structural cracks are some of the works you could consider. The upside of increasing your expenditure, this could save you money in the long run, avoiding structural issues becoming more problematic.
Renovations and home improvements can make your home feeling like a brand new without all the hassle of having to move property.
LOFT CONVERSION
Loft conversions could be a cheaper alternative to a house extension and can be around half the cost. Maybe, you have a new addition to your family and need an extra room, this could be a great alternative to moving. Or maybe you want the extra space for an office, games room or an additional bedroom for guests. A few points to remember, it needs to add more accommodation than it takes away, so make sure there is room for a staircase which will not take up too much of your existing space. A recent survey by sellhousefaat.uk, showed adding a loft conversion can increase the value of your home by an average of 23,754.57 GBP. Although planning permission is not required for loft conversions since you are using existing space, if you do decide to add dormer windows, planning permission could be required. Small additions like windows, roof lights will create a light and open space to your loft conversion.
RENOVATIONS
Kitchens can be the most social part of the house, if you have enough space, this can be very attractive to buyers. Extending your kitchen or removing any walls to make the space look more spacious, making use and having additional storage space. Small, modest renovations to your kitchen can also make a difference, so if a brand new kitchen is not in your budget, you can always replace doors, worktops, floors and make sure you have good lighting to improve the look and feel of your home.
For bathroom improvements, renewing your shower, check your plumbing system first and make sure you buy the correct shower for the system you have. Re-grouting the walls can be a cheaper option, making sure your bathroom looks bright and clean. Flooring should be clean and hygienic, tiled floors are always a good option. Mirrors can also make a small bathroom look more spacious, adding an extractor fan can help with ventilation also.
GARDEN SPACE
So once you have looked at the indoors of the home, there are also options and plans that can make your outdoor space more attractive. Adding a conservatory can be a good investment, again adding more value to your property than the cost. However, this will only be the case if the conservatory is integrated into the house in the correct way and styled correctly. Putting in a poorly constructed conservatory will could decrease value from your home. Most conservatories will not require planning permission, but you do need to make sure you comply with Building Regulations.
If parking is an issue in your street, this could be a question for potential buyers at some time, having any groundwork done can always be a bonus, such as adding a driveway to your property, giving neat garden look, with less work to do in the garden, not forgetting the added bonus of potentially bringing down your car insurance.
Renovations and home improvements can make your home feeling like a brand new without all the hassle of having to move property.
If you are considering having any works done, Up to Plate builders are always available to answer any questions you may have.