This is the second blog in a two part series. Please click here to read the first blog.

As discussed in the first blog, it is important to know the money being spent on your home from the roog to the garden is ultimately going to add value to the property price.

Consider a loft extension

As you will note, particularly in major towns and cities many people have chosen a loft extension that creates more living space and contributes hugely to adding value to your home.

A typical loft conversion costs around £500-600/m² compared to around twice this for an extension. A loft conversion is likely to be a very good investment providing it adds more accommodation than it takes away (remember you need to make room for a full staircase, and this will take up existing space).

One important tip is to consider natural light via dormer windows or rooflights. A loft conversion often does not normally require planning consent, as it uses existing volume however, creating dormer windows may need planning permission if they face a highway (typically the front of a property) and so it is always worth checking with the local planners.

Re-decoration

It is a basic obvious suggestion, but decorating is perhaps the most noticeable task when thinking about how to add value to your home. Presentation of your home is key; making the house looked cared for!

Whilst minor, insignificant defects will not directly affect the value of a property, they could put off potential buyers and therefore prevent it from selling at the optimum price.

These typical defects will put many buyers off, but are easily resolved by any competent DIYer:

• Peeling paint

• Squeaking or sticking doors and windows

• Door latches that do not work

• Mouldy sealants in kitchen and bathroom

• Dripping taps

• Loose tiles

• Sewer smells

• Broken or damaged windows

• Squeaky floors and stairs

• Cracks to ceilings and plasterwork

• Lifting flooring

The garden and outdoor space if tidy and well organised is a vital part of ensuring added value is achieved. You do not have to redesign your garden, but ensure it is not only attractive and well designed, but also uncluttered of rubbish and junk, this will also help to make the property more appealing to buyers.

The following may help you:

• Privacy is vital and improving the feeling of seclusion will add value

• Consider adding fences and even mature trees

• You can raise boundary fences and walls up to 2m without needing planning permission (0.6m on the highway)

• Structures within the garden, such as pergolas, can be up to 4m without needing planning even if they are right up to the boundary

• Create distinct areas for each function, seating, eating/barbecue, storage, lawn, work area

• A well-designed decking area will extend a buyer’s perception of the amount of useable living space somewhere between the house and garden, and will add value

Even if you do not makeover your garden, make sure you carry out at least the basics:

• Clean up and tidy litter, dead plants and clear weeds

• Repair and feed the lawn

• Cut back overgrown trees and shrubs

• Create interesting shapes with beds and borders

• Add colour and interest with planting

Will a garden room, conservatory or orangery add value?

A conservatory or garden room of the right proportion usually adds appeal and good value to any property, providing it is designed, built and integrated into the layout of the house in the right way.

Conversely, a poorly conceived and inexpensive-looking conservatory can detract from the value of a property.

In most instances, a conservatory, garden room or orangery may not require planning permission but worth checking, although it will have to comply with the Building Regulations.

Get the right professional advice when considering adding a structure of this type. A brilliant addition can make such a difference and will in the medium to longer term add value to your property.

When you need help finding the perfect property, it's time to call the experts. For more information about buying your next home, please contact Premier Property Search on 01962 793100 or email enquiries@premier-propertysearch.co.uk