Sarah Beeny gives advice on selling your home fast
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Making changes to a property is great, whether selling or not. However, it is important to think about whether or not they will add value to your home, and how much. According to an expert, some improvements may be best avoided and could actually decrease a home’s value.
1. Niche room
Thomas Goodman, property expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, explained: “Creating a niche room such as a home cinema or gym won’t necessarily boost your home’s value.
“The have a limited appeal to buyers and take up space that’s better used for a utility room or an extra bedroom.”
This is also the same as changing a bedroom into a dressing room, which will always be overlooked by buyers as they would prefer an extra bedroom.
2. Some extensions
While some extensions can definitely add value, and lots of it to a home, the expert said “poorly thought out” ones may not.
He explained: “Poorly thought out extensions that are simply tacked on and don’t join up with the rest of the home are impractical and use up valuable garden space.
“They can end up having a negative impact on your home’s overall value.”
All areas also have a ceiling price, which is the maximum amount a person would pay to live in a specific area, regardless of what work has been done to it.
Extensions can often go into the thousands, if not more, so it is important to check the ceiling price of your area before starting any work. This will ensure no money is wasted, a good estate agent should be able to advise on this topic.
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3. Loft conversion
The property pro said: “Loft conversions which don’t meet building regs can’t be classed as a bedroom when you sell.
“This means you could have spent money on something which doesn’t add any real value.”
The experts at Checkatrade explained: “A loft conversion is considered illegal if it was built without building regulations or planning permission.
“This may mean the conversion isn’t safe for use or fit for habitation and unless it’s rectified, the loft will be a potential risk to anyone living in the house.”
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Purchasing a home with an illegal loft can be very risky, especially if a mortgage lender finds out so make sure you go through all the needed precautions when doing a loft conversion.
4. Removing a bath
Thomas continued: “Removing a bath to fit in a large walk-in shower may suit some young couples and older buyers.
“However, a bath is a must-have for most people, particularly families. So, removing your bath can have negative consequences, especially if there’s only one bathroom in the house.”
The ideal bathroom would have a shower over the bath, or the two separate, and then homeowners have the best of both worlds.
Something which adds real value to a home is a garden, especially if it is well maintained with freshly cut lawns and flowers all around.
The property pro said: “Most people prefer to have a garden. Since the pandemic, outside space has become more valued than ever before.
“For those living in urban areas, it’s a prized feature. But those living in the countryside also value having their own slice of the outdoors.
“It’s somewhere for children to play and for families and young couples to socialise. So, a garden is important and is one thing that always adds value.”
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