Why you could be better off improving, rather than moving

For various reasons, including economic uncertainty and relatively high mortgage rates, the UK’s housing market is currently pretty challenging for anyone seeking to move. Some properties are taking longer to sell while, in some parts of the country, price growth has slowed or remained stagnant.

Against this backdrop, more of us are mulling over the benefits of improving our homes rather than upping sticks. After all, it’s cheaper, you don’t have to go through the emotional upheaval of moving, plus you maximise the value of your property for when the time does come to sell up.

At the same time, you’ll still have a sense of a fresh start, just as you would when moving house.

Not sure how to upgrade? Here are some ideas:

1.) Invest in garden furniture

Furniture designed for open-air use adds value to a property by enhancing exterior spaces’ functionality and aesthetic appeal. This can be very desirable to prospective purchasers. A smart outside area makes your home stand out, sparks interest and makes it more attractive generally.

And if you go for high-quality pieces, they’ll hold their value for longer. Equally, timeless items which are stylish rather than fashionable will mean your furnishings retain their appeal over time.

Teak dining chairs and tables are classic example of this. Make the investment and look forward to outstanding durability, along with resistance to rot, water and insects thanks to teak’s dense grain and naturally high oil content. This means you can leave items out in the garden all year round, with almost nothing is needed in the way of upkeep. And because this wood regulates its own temperature, it’s comfortable to the touch, whatever the weather.

With a lifespan typically measured in decades rather than years, this timber is highly sustainable. Finally, apart from anything else, people love teak because of its inherent beauty, tight grain pattern and natural golden colour.

2.) Extend upwards

Particularly if you need more living space but don’t want to leave a home you love, converting your loft could be the answer. Whether you go for a versatile loft conversion Guildford or anywhere else, you’ll enjoy multiple advantages including having extra room for whatever purpose you choose. Equally, you are making the most of an otherwise unused part of your home.

If you fit roof windows or dormers in your conversion, you also increase natural light, and make the new area bright and inviting.

Often, you don’t need planning permission, plus this form of home improvement is cheaper than other types of extension and, again, you add significant value to your home, often worth up to 20%.

3.) Consider a Purbeck stone wall

A Purbeck stone wall is made from natural limestone quarried on Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck. These structures are renowned for their exceptional durability and traditional, rustic appearance. You can construct one with or without mortar, and have it as a garden boundary or retaining wall to hold back soil and stop erosion. (People also use them in dry-stone walling.)

The stone incorporates a blend of soft grey and cream in different shapes and sizes, giving the completed item a uniquely textured aesthetic. Quick and easy to install, Purbeck stone walls weather gracefully over time, require minimal maintenance and can add significantly to a place’s potential asking price.

Any or all of the above options add value and aesthetic appeal and value to your home, as well as being highly functional and practical ideas.