DOORS, WINDOWS & FITTINGS
HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY
ADD VALUE TO A HOME
However, significant results can also be achieved through
room renovations. Most real estate experts agree that if
you are going to renovate one room, make it the kitchen.
According to the National Association of Estate Agents
(NAEA), 65 per cent of homeowners renovate their kitchen
before selling.
With kitchens becoming increasingly used as a social area
rather than purely just for cooking, creating an ergonomic
space with an inviting atmosphere is a must. Renovating a
kitchen can increase the value of a home by around five to
ten per cent.
Windows and doors
HOME IMPROVEMENT UPDATES THAT
PROVIDE A RETURN ON INVESTMENT
In the UK, first time buyers typically save for eight years
for a deposit to buy a home. While most buyers choose a
home that accommodates their current lifestyle, considering
its potential resale value is also important. However, with
complete home renovation being a costly project, which
home improvements will provide a significant return on
investment? Here, Nick Cowley, managing director at leading
window and door manufacturer Euramax, explains how to
add value to a property.
People who are interested in renovating a property often fit
into one of two categories: homeowners who have already
lived in the home for a long time with resulting wear and
tear, or buyers purchasing a neglected home for a cheaper
price. In either of these circumstances, it’s important to
weigh up which home improvements will yield the most
transformative result and resale value.
Extensions, conversions and renovations
Adding an extension is likely the most expensive home
improvement project, but could also yield the most profit. In
fact, a survey conducted by Zopa, of 1,550 UK homeowners
who had recently taken out a home improvement loan,
found that extensions generated the most profit, generating
an average of £17,090. The extensions that add the most
value are those that add an extra bedroom or bathroom to
the home, raising its occupancy potential.
If outdoor space is limited, or the homeowner desires a
simpler project, loft conversions can have a similar effect. In
fact, Nationwide found that, whether through an extension
or loft conversion, adding a double bedroom and bathroom
can add 20 per cent to the value of a three-bedroom, onebathroom
house.
Updating the interior of a home is important, but it must
be emphasised that the face of the building determines the
buyer’s first impression. According to research conducted by
Strutt & Parker, 76 per cent of property purchasers surveyed
agreed that first impressions are everything when they visit a
property.
The best way to improve the exterior appearance of a house
is to update windows and doors. Not only is this a quick
way to get a substantial transformation, but there are lots of
different design options available, from the frame material
and its colour, to the style of glass.
The improved appearance will add value to the home,
and this will be enhanced by the functional benefits.
With many buyers looking for environmentally friendly
features, upgrading to efficient, double glazed windows
will add further value to the home. In fact, Zopa’s home
improvement survey found upgrading windows and doors
provided a 23 per cent return on investment.
With over 65 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry,
Euramax is the UK leading supplier of PVCu windows, doors
and composite doors. All frames are available in white,
Chartwell green, golden oak and grey, with Georgian bar and
frosted glass styles also offered. Furthermore, all products
are quick and easy to install, rated A for efficiency and come
with a ten-year guarantee. If standard sizes aren’t suitable,
Euramax offers a bespoke service at trade prices to ensure a
perfect fit.
Buying a home is the largest investment many of us will
make in our lives. This is why it’s especially important
that we invest in a way that delivers the most value and
ensures that our time and money is well spent. Adding
extra rooms, renovating the kitchen and upgrading windows
and doors can significantly increase the value of a house —
transforming a fixer-upper into hot property.
www.euramaxuk.com
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