In part 1 of Moolr’s guide to home improvements, we had a look at some of the ways of improving a home, either for yourself or if looking to raise the value before selling. There are plenty of other areas we couldn’t cover in the article however. Thus, here’s further tips as part of our guide to home improvements.
A Guide To Home Improvements – Bedrooms & Bathrooms
Sprucing up specific rooms can of course add value to your house and make living there more comfortable and enjoyable. Let’s start with the bathroom. There are plenty of options available to you. Here are some suggestions. Change the colour scheme to something more modern. White or cream is usually recommended as suitable colours. Brighten things up with towels, plants and pictures. Perhaps consider also the chance to go eco. Low water toilets and showers may help you reduce your fuel bills. Think about replacing lino or carpets with tiles
In the bedroom, perhaps create a master suite. Think about a seating area if you have space. Freshen up via small changes, such as new curtains, duvets and pillows. Such items can give the room a whole new look. Consider adding an en suite.
A Guide To Home Improvements – Create More Space
A good starting point if the budget allows it is to consider an extension. Start by speaking to a building professional, such as a chartered surveyor, an architect or a building design service. Always consider how large it will be, its position, and thus the planning permission allowable for such a structure. An extension is always a consideration in a guide to improving your home.
An additional option is to convert or extend your garage. If it is not being widely used for its original function, consider what else you could do with this space. This is especially relevant if you have somewhere else to park your vehicle(s). Another option is the attic, but again always consult a building professional before proceeding.
Be Energy Efficient
Find out how much energy your home is using Get an energy monitor. They are free from some energy suppliers, or around £20 on the high street. Think about your Energy Performance Certificate.
Just like appliances, all homes available to buy or rent in the UK require an EPC. This rates your home from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient), and tells you how much it will cost to run your home each year. Even if you are not thinking of moving in the near future, making energy efficiency improvements will up your EPC rating. You can of course save money too by being energy efficient. Any costs can be clawed back over time. See it as an investment as well as the other benefits.
Use the Energy Saving Trust’s Home Energy Calculator to work out what you could save by making energy efficiency improvements. A guide to home improvements should always look at the issue of energy efficiency in the current financial and actual climate.
