The List’s property experts discuss factors to remember when considering investing in your property…
By Vanessa Folkes
Investing in property is a daunting process that is both meticulous and time-consuming. From exterior to interior and everything in between, all of the changes and intricate details of your house contribute to the big jar of property value. However, with these eight factors from eight of The List by House & Garden‘s specialists, the advice given here is a helping hand in preventing alterations that can have a negative effect. Whether you are considering a renovation or looking at a new property entirely, this article has something for everyone.
Room Layout
“Does the orientation make the most of the natural light and garden/landscape views? Is there a large Living Kitchen with a connection to the gardens?” Moulding advertises making it a priority to ask these questions prior to investing in property. “Historic houses were originally designed with kitchens on the dark, service side of the house from where the staff prepared food. The principal rooms for dining and withdrawing were on the side with the best light and views. Nowadays, we live in our kitchens with good family space and breakout snugs. An unaltered historic house will need this potential to be unlocked. Similarly, with the modern demand for master suites to include interconnecting dressing rooms, bathrooms and bedrooms. Guest accommodation will need to be separate with interconnecting ensuite bathrooms.”
Kerb Appeal
“First impressions always count, this is why the front door to your home (and front garden or driveway) can say a lot about the rest of the house to potential viewers,” says the team at Domus Holmes. “If you cannot afford to replace the door, make sure it looks new by giving it a deep clean or fresh coat of paint. Even a new doorknob, house number or name plaque can make the difference. The facade sets the style and character of the home therefore, a neat and tidy presented façade along well-maintained front gardens and borders will add to the overall kerb appeal.”
Proximity To A Tube Station
For those who are based in London or looking to make the move, Middleton Advisors believes that the “proximity to a tube station can significantly impact property value. If a property is too far from a tube station, it affects commutability. Conversely, being too close to a tube station, with the associated noise and visibility, can devalue a home by up to ten to fifteen per cent.”
Home Offices
“Since the pandemic each one of our renovation projects has included at least one home office – more often than not we’ll be asked to create space for two and in some cases three if parents want their children to study outside of their bedrooms.” Edo Mapelli Mozzi, Founder and CEO of Banda goes on to say, “where possible we bring in as much natural light as possible to create a sense of calm. Using sustainable and natural materials throughout such as walnut or oak desks and soft, handwoven rugs sets the tone for creativity and handmade inspiration. If a client comes to sell, having dedicated workspaces can really help elevate a home for modern-day living.”
