Are house extensions worth the hype?

Lockdown saw a rise in home improvement projects, including the ever-popular home extension. With the promise of a fresh new space, and an increase in your house’s value, it’s easy to see how so many Brits are tempted.

With house prices soaring, the idea of building on what you already have instead of moving elsewhere is very appealing, especially if you think you’ll be able to sell your house at a higher price when you do decide to relocate.

However, one question remains to be answered: are home extensions worth the investment of time, and do they actually have any financial benefit?

Will an extension increase the value of my house?

The location of your home will factor into whether your house will increase in value after adding an extension. Be sure to do your research first to avoid disappointment later.

Every area has a “ceiling price” which is the maximum amount a buyer would be willing to pay for a property. A good estate agent will be able to advise your estimated ceiling price.

Another factor to consider is the quality of the work. If your builder does a poor job, the value of your home is unlikely to increase and may even fall significantly. To prevent this, ensure you choose a reputable construction company and the materials used for the renovation are high-quality.

Crucially, you must make sure the extension is built safely. Ensure your builder considers the British elements, by using roofing sheets to reduce the chance of damage from poor weather.

Making structural changes to your home is a big decision that requires careful consideration. However, while there are some risks, there are many benefits to building on your existing home.

Room for additional living space

Many people buy a home as a young couple but begin to outgrow the space once they have collected more furniture, belongings or started a family.

An extension will allow a little more room for storage or living space, preventing you from feeling cramped and allowing you to streamline your home, making it easier to keep it tidy and free of clutter.

An alternative to moving house

Moving house can be a real drag, especially if you have children who accumulate a lot of things. Adding an extension to your home is an ideal solution if you’re in need of a little more space or you fancy a bit of a change.

Create a fresh, new space, like a study, a conservatory or a playroom for the kids. The best bit is, you won’t have to get to know a new neighbourhood, find new friends or face the dreaded hunt for a new hairdresser.

You may not need planning permission Planning permission is not always required for home extensions, if the building plans meet certain standards.

Getting planning permission can be a stressful and arduous process, so preparing for extension work may require less paperwork and less time.

If you’re unsure whether you need to apply for planning permission, speak to your builder who will be able to advise you.

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