Extending: the sky's the limit
Wednesday, 17 November 2010 2:16 PM
Extending your property can be an easy way to increase its value - but only if you get it right. Anthony Hill investigates.
Investing in your existing property can not only make it more appropriate for your own family's needs, but it could also provide a boost to its future sale potential. While revamping the kitchen or bathroom is the choice of many, some households instead look to expand their property outwards – but there is a lot to consider.
So where should you start? Aidan Mortimer, CEO of specialist builder Symm, has offered some guidance:
- First of all, seek professional advice from a local property expert. They should be able to help identify what would make your home more desirable to buyers in the long run.
- Involve architects and builders from the very beginning. Mortimer says: "A highly trained team will advise on such issues as planning permission, materials needed to match the existing building, mechanical and electrical work and access points."
- Consider the position of your extension – both internally and externally. A well-planned extension needs to fit seamlessly with how the house already looks, as well as providing a flawless internal flow between rooms.
- If extending outwards rather than upwards, it is essential that there is sufficient room in the garden to accommodate an extension – if your outdoor area is already cramped, extending into it could actually be detrimental to the value of your home.
- You should also think carefully about what the extra space will actually offer. "Many people opt for another bedroom when actually a second bathroom or an enlarged kitchen would add more value," Mortimer says.
- Perhaps most important is the design. Says Mortimer: "A well-designed space will not only work practically and aesthetically, but it should also be sympathetic to the existing building. The extension should look great and add value."
- Finally, you must remember that the processes involved with getting your extension project up and running can take time. Flexibility is also important: as the design, planning and construction works progress, you may need to make adjustments to the way you move around and relax in your home.
But if you follow Symm's expert advice, your extended home should be more attractive, more liveable and, with a bit of luck, even more valuable than before.
For more information on Symm, visit symm.co.uk.
