Extensions can be a great way to make your home feel like new. They’re ideal for making space for your new home office, an extra bedroom or a bigger living area. However, did you know that they can also be a great way to add value when you’re looking to sell?
Keep reading to find out how extensions can increase your property value, and which types of extension add the most value.
How extensions will impact your property value
According to a report by Nationwide, home improvements that add additional floor area, such as extensions and loft conversions, can add up to 25% to your property’s value. This is taken from the example of adding an extension or loft conversion that adds a large double bedroom and bathroom to a three-bedroom, one-bathroom house.
It also takes into account the adding of 28 metres squared of extra floor area.
Creating an extra bathroom can add around 6% value, with an extra bedroom adding around 14%. This is assuming that the additional bedroom has a floor area of 13 metres squared.
Ultimately, it seems that since their initial study in 2016, prospective buyers appear to associate more space with a higher quality of accommodation. This means they’re happy to pay a bit extra for it.
Value added by property type
Examples of value added by an extra bedroom to different property types include:
| Type of Property | 2 bed to 3 bed value added | 3 bed to 4 bed value added |
| Terraced | 13% | 10% |
| Detached | 13% | 12% |
| Semi-Detached | 17% | 11% |
Is an extension necessary? – Factors to consider
There are a number of things to be aware of before you consider building an extension, from legislation to preference. We’ve compiled the main ones below:
Appeal to different kinds of buyer
With the shift towards working from home, extensions are a great way to pull in potential buyers who are looking for a designated office space. Also, an extra bedroom is a great way to make your property appealing to families, or those looking to start one.
Additional storage space can also be a great way to pull in a variety of individuals, whether it’s people who like to stay organised, families, or those who run a small business from home.
Consider cost & planning permissions
It’s important to weigh up the costs associated with the project against the potential value they could add, as well as your personal finances. The price of an extension varies depending on factors such as the materials, the size and the design. It’s also vital to consider planning permission required, or any restrictions associated with your home.
You can learn more about whether a loft conversion or an extension is the best choice for you, as well as the associated costs, in our guide.
The extension should also match the design of your existing home, so as to not discourage potential buyers.
Understand the local market
Before undertaking a major home renovation, you should seek the advice of an estate agent. They will be able to provide you with a more accurate figure surrounding the value added by an extension. They will also be able to advise whether they feel it will be beneficial in the first place.
It’s important to note that the analysis above does not take into account factors like garden landscaping or the type of kitchen you have, which will make the home’s value subjective from buyer to buyer.
You can also look to add additional value to your home through additions such as fresh paint (this can also be subjective, so think carefully about your colour choices). It’s also worth paying attention to the outside of your home, such as the front door, garden and roofing. This will make sure potential buyers get a strong first impression when they come to view your home.
Ways your extension can add to your home
As mentioned above, when looking to add value and make your home appealing to prospective buyers, it’s important to look to fill a need. Example reasons for an extension include:
- Adding another bedroom or bathroom
- Enabling you to enjoy views of the area surrounding the home – this could be done using an orangery or conservatory, or a rooflight loft conversion, for example
- Adding storage space
- Creating a home office
- Increasing natural light
- Reducing heat loss in your home, for greater energy efficiency
- Extending or brightening your kitchen, with a project like a kitchen skylight extension
When it comes to the extension itself, you can add further value and make your space look bigger with ceiling decorations such as windows.
A well-positioned window can help brighten up a space, and give you a new appreciation for the area surrounding your property.
Toughened Glass Systems offers a range of high quality, durable rooflights, skylights, and roof windows to help add value to your home and open up your space. These include:
We also sell stunning bi-fold doors and sliding doors, perfect for maximising natural light.
Shop the range or get in touch to find out the right windows for your space.
You can learn more about different ways to add value to your home in our detailed guide.
More related articles
- Discover The Best Place to Position Your Skylights to Maximise Performance
- Find Your Loft Conversion Windows
- 9 Surprising Benefits Of Skylights
- Extension Or Loft Conversion: Which Is Best For You?
FAQs
Do extensions increase house value?
Extensions can increase the value of your home by up to 25%. The value added depends on factors such as the design and size of your current home, the amount of space added and the type of room added. It also depends on the local market, so you should be sure to ask an estate agent before committing to a large change to your home.
What raises property value the most?
Loft conversions and extensions have the most potential to boost property value. This is providing they are done in a way that suits your home, and according to estate agent recommendations surrounding the local market. Kitchen and bathroom renovations and storage solutions can also be a great way to add value and appeal to prospective buyers.
Is an extension a good investment?
An extension can be a great way to give you extra space and add property value. However, whether it’s a worthwhile investment depends on a number of factors, including:
- Personal finances
- Costs associated with labour, design and materials
- Planning permission and building restrictions
- The style of your home
- The space available to you