Improve Dont Move

Improve Dont Move!

One of my customers remarked recently that they were going to do exactly what their home was designed for – and that was to live in it and enjoy it! When you’re happy with the area you live in, the thought of having to move in order to get a bigger bathroom or an extra bedroom can be daunting and costly. A reasonable estimate of the cost is about 10% of the price of the property you’re selling. That means if you live in a three-bedroom house worth £300,000 and decide to move into the identical three-bedroom house next door, you’ll pay around £30,000 on fees, stamp duty, legal costs, removers and the rest. 

People underestimate moving costs because they pay them a bit at a time and don’t necessarily add them up. It often pays to improve rather than move – especially as house prices are high just now, buoyed up by the lack of properties for sale while owners hold back until the market is more settled. Extensions, loft and garage conversions or creating a basement will add the most value. Open plan living is now very popular and knocking down a wall to open up a space that is filled with light will always appeal to potential buyers. Replacing an outdated kitchen will increase the value of your home. If the configuration of your kitchen works well and the carcasses are sturdy then keep the layout as it is and change the doors. Fitting a new work surface and smart new tiles will bring it into the 21st century.

Here's one we prepared earlier  - Before

During........ remember to call in the professionals!

Beware of the cowboys!  Be very wary of one man bands changing career from the stock market to becoming a builder, or the curtain maker working out the back of her shed in the garden. It does pay to shop around but make sure you are comparing like for like quotes so you know what you are getting for your money.  You’ll need to bring in professionals to carry out this kind of work and also contact your local authority to find out if planning permission is required. Talk to people who’ve had similar work done to get their advice.


                                        And Happily Ever After being Honeysuckled.......

Remember book early to avoid disappointment – the really good trade’s people are always busy.  If you’re thinking about having a project completed ready to entertain at Christmas now is the time to get organised.