Kerr and Co Guide to Love it or List it

Kerr and Co’ s Guide to Love it or List it 

Over the years we have seen a selection of good and bad renovations which can cause all sorts of issues when coming to sell.  We advise our clients to make a plan and draw up a list of the key areas which need most attention -  such as do you require more space downstairs, upstairs or outside ?  Ask the professionals and set a budget. there are many renovation ideas to make your home more attractive, whether you choose move home or indeed update it, love it and stay ! 

Extension ( Side and Rear ) 
Depending your house and its layout find our what would be the best option - look at your neighbours have they extended ? What works best for your needs and is inkeeping with the property.

Basements 
There has been a trend to build down and create a basement to make a useable space. Planning permission may not be required if there is an existing basement or cellar in a house and may beneifit from permitted development rights. We would advise all our clients to instruct a basement specialist who will guide you through planning permission especially in London.

Loft conversion
A loft conversion is often a easy solution to a growing family who need an extra bedroom or study. A dormer window can add extras space and light into a loft room with extra head height.
It is important to check with your local authority as each one has different guidelines. Although you may not need planning permission, Rights of Permitted Development (PDR) may cover extending into the loft space if they haven’t been used before with any other renovations to the house. PDR are rights that allow you to make certain changes to your house without seeking planning consent although you would still need to inform the planning authority of your intentions.

Conservatory
A conservatory is often a reasonable way to add space to your home. However, insulation and a proper build is recommended so they is comfortable for the 365 days a year and will be welcome relaxing space and a wonderful link to the garden in the winter and summer months.

Energy efficiency
This is a hot potato at the moment especially with rising energy costs - Updating your home to eliminate energy waste can save money on household bills and be a selling point should you think about putting your home on the market at a later date. Switching energy supplier, replacing light bulbs with energy efficient lightbulbs, insulating walls and loft or a new boiler will be helpful in the long term and many grants are available to help you do this.

Update your kitchen
Undoubtedly the most popular house renovation which can transform a home and add a wow factor. As often the most used room in the house you can either transform it by changing the colour of the kitchen cupboards, or if the layout is not working – embark and invest in a complete renovation. A new oven, lighting, surfaces and a new sink could transform the look and feel of this multi-function room. Average Costs can range between £5 – 40 K depending on the size and extra fixtures and fittings to make the maximum usage out of the space.

Update your bathroom
A bathroom update could be a time and money worth spent, especially as trend and colours come and go. Avoid coloured bathroom suits white and neutral colours add cleanliest and chic to a home. This can be done as simple as renewing taps, tiles new flooring or even a deep clean on the grout and tiles will make it feel brand new.

Attention on the all-important outdoor space
One of the most instant and affordable ways to improve your home is to update your garden or outdoor space. Cleaning the patio, replace fencing and trellising, reseed the grass, add some lighting and some mature plants. All can make an instant impact and give the illusion of making the garden bigger and more inviting.  

Curbside appeal 
First impressions do make a difference, a new driveway or path can add instant curb appeal and make you home stand out from others in the road.  A new lick of paint on the front door, clean windows and plant pots will make your home inviting and unforgetable on viewings.

Garden rooms and garden furniture have become increasingly popular, this may be more to budget for but will definitely be worth it in the long run. Outdoor space is at a premium at the moment and adding decking or a garden studio or room will add an extra 10 % to your property adding more space and value to your home.

For more information and details please see our website for our uptodate Available properties