June 08, 2016

Don't Sell Up! Instead Add Space!

 
Whether you moved into your home ten months ago or ten years ago, if it lacks space, this can be a real issue….But don’t sell up! Instead add space!

The number one reason people choose to move house is because of a lack of space. It’s no fun living in cramped conditions where you and your family are falling over each other all the time. The problem is that moving house can be a real nightmare, especially if you love your home and it’s location. Finding somewhere new to live can be expensive, time-consuming and stressful. That’s why, if you can, it’s always best to attempt to add more space to your current home, rather than selling up and moving on.

What do you want the extra space for?

Start off by thinking about what you need the extra space for. Is it a case that there’s just not enough living space? Perhaps your living room gets seriously overcrowded and uncomfortable? Are you lacking enough bedrooms? Maybe your kids have outgrown room sharing and each need a space of their own? Is having just one bathroom a real nightmare? Think about what the problem is and what you need to do to make it go away. This is important as the type of space you need will have an impact on what area of your home you choose to transform.

Consider your options

Once you’ve worked out what type of extra space you need, start thinking about what your options are. A great option for adding extra space both upstairs and downstairs is an extension. However, you will need a large garden and a big budget for this. For adding extra bedrooms or bathrooms, an attic or basement conversion is a good option. To boost your living space quickly and affordably, adding a conservatory to your home is worth considering. There are plenty of options for adding extra space; it’s just a case of working out which one is best for you.

Think about each option:

You’ve got plenty of options; the question is which one is most suitable for what you want? As well as most suitable for your space and budget. It’s also worth thinking about the ins and outs of each of these options and all the work that comes with each one.

Loft conversion

If you’ve got a sizeable attic, a conversion can be a great option. However, it can be costly depending on the setup that you have. If for example, there aren’t already windows up there, you’ll need to put some in. You may also need planning permission, depending on whether you’re going to make the ceilings higher. Extra insulation may also need to be added, to make the area easier to keep warm or cool.

Extension

The most expensive of all the options, an extension, can be a fantastic option. It will add a whole extra section to your property. This means the value of it will rise significantly. However, you will need to invest a large amount to create a good extension and will also require planning permission. If you need to add space upstairs and downstairs, an extension is the best option. It’s just important to realise that it will take a lot of time and money, that’s all.

Basement conversion

When it comes to adding extra space to their homes, a lot of people aren’t keen on using their basements. This is because most basements are cold and damp, and don’t exactly scream homey. However, they can make great extra living or sleeping rooms; it’s just a case of getting the  transformation right. To create a basement area that’s dry, warm and inviting, you’ll need to invest in basement waterproofing. As well as treatment for any damp or mould Do this and you can turn your basement into a fantastic extra living space. It may be a little pricey but the space and value it will add, makes it worth it.

Conservatory

The easiest and most affordable option, adding a conservatory is a great way to add some extra living space. It will, of course, take up some of your garden, but as long as you have a sizeable yard, that shouldn’t really matter. The great thing about conservatories is that they’re quick and easy to build and can be up within a few days. They don’t tend to require planning permission and are affordable. The only downside is that they only add extra space downstairs, not upstairs.

If you’re in need of extra space in your home, before you decide to move, think about your options for making your current home bigger. If you love your property and the area it’s in, moving really isn’t worth the time, money or hassle.