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Is it worthwhile extending your home right now?
Planning rules have been relaxed
In recent years the government have relaxed planning rules in regards to extensions. The changes have given homeowners more flexibility to improve and increase the value of their homes under Permitted Development. Previously, without planning permission, you could add a single-storey extension of up to 3 meters in depth for an attached property and 4m to a detached house, these distances have been doubled (subject to a prior approval application).
How much value does an extension add?
This can vary significantly depending on the type of extension, the house, the location of the property. For an extension or property refurbishment in London, for example, the cost of work will be more, but the value added will also be proportionally more too.
Here are some statistics that give a good indication of what you can expect when it comes to adding value with an house extension.
Nationwide’s research on the value of improvements to an average three bedroom house found that an extension creating a double bedroom and en-suite can add up to 23% to the value of your property. An extra bathroom could add up to 6% and an additional double bedroom can add 12%.
Zopa surveyed 1000 home-improvers and found that an average extension cost was £19,750. The average return on investment for an extension was 71% and the average amount of profit generated by an extension was £14,000.
It is important to remember that these statistics are averages and can vary considerably from project to project. For an accurate evaluation of how much value your extension could add you should consult a professional and find out the current market value of your property, as well as its potential value once the changes have been made. We’ve written another article that you might find helpful on How much does a house extension cost.
How to add the most value to your extension
One of the most important things to consider when adding value is a priority is ensuring your extension appeals to the average buyer’s taste. A good rule of thumb is to match your extension to the architectural style of the existing house. Make sure it connects well with the house and consider how it will affect the layout. The best way to ensure your extension adds the most value is to use a professional architect or designer. They have the skill set and experience to ensure your extension meets planning laws, appeals to the average buyer, connects to the current house well and most importantly get the most out of your budget.
Be strategic when planning your extension and consider who the future buyer of your house is likely to be. An improvement that may add value in one area may not necessarily add value elsewhere. For instance extra bathrooms and large kitchens are usually good investments in family-sized homes, where as in a busy urban area the creation of a garage could add more value.
Finding your extension architect
It’s important for you to have a basic understanding of whether you need permission for a side return extension, but the most critical thing is that you find the right architect to guide you through these legal requirements alongside the design decision-making process.
Here at Design for Me, we can match you with the perfect architect for your side return extension. Choose up to three interested design professionals for an initial consultation. And it’s all completely free!
- Quickly see who’s interested in your job.
- Create a shortlist.
- Invite up to three for a no-obligation consultation.
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