Convert or Sell: Turn Your House into Your New Home

Thinking of moving house? Think again.

Thanks to soaring house prices, the top of the housing ladder is well out of reach for many people. In fact, just getting your foot on the next rung can be a struggle. And even if you can afford to, we all know how much hassle moving can be.

So, what’s the alternative?

Most people move primarily to gain extra space, but this can also be achieved by upgrading your existing house; for example, with a loft conversion.

A loft conversion offers a fantastic way to add space and value to your home — without moving anywhere!

If you have a little one on the way, it could become an extra bedroom. If your lounge is cramped, consider turning it into a den for children or teenagers. If you work from home, why not turn it into a study?

We look at three key reasons why converting your loft is preferable to moving to a new house…

 

Stress

Firstly, moving is stressful. The excitement of having an offer accepted quickly turns flat when you then have to deal with solicitors, estate agents and removal companies. Moving can also mean more than just a new house: it could mean a new area, school or neighbours. Which won’t necessarily be a good thing.

In comparison, a loft conversion allows you to stay where you are with little disruption to your life.

Although many people are understandably wary of having builders in their home, they needn’t be with a loft conversion. A good company will recognise how building works can unbalance your home and make it a top priority to ensure your experience is as pain-free and un-intrusive as possible.

With a loft conversion, the bulk of the work can also be done by going through the roof — so you won’t have builders traipsing through your house.

 

Time 

Moving to a new house takes a minimum of six weeks from the date of an offer being accepted — although, in reality, this is subject to change and can go on for much longer.

Converting a loft is more predictable. If your loft conversion specialist says it will be a six-week project, you can be reasonably certain that’s how long it will take.

What’s more, unlike a typical extension, many loft conversions can be carried out without planning permission as long as they have a minimal external impact. Meaning you can avoid the lengthy application process altogether.

 

Cost

 There are a number of substantial costs involved when moving house. From valuation, and conveyancing to estate agency fees and stamp duty.

It doesn’t stop there either. You also have to contend with wasted money if a sale falls through and could potentially end up paying two mortgages at the same time. Then there is the cost of physically moving your belongings and doing up or decorating the new property.

While loft conversions do attract a premium, they are regularly cited as one of the best and most cost-effective ways to add value to your home. Plus, you’ll get to reap the tangible benefits rather than handing your money over to an estate agent and never seeing it again.

So, why not stay put, save on moving costs and spend the money on improving what you have instead?

 

If you’re keen to upgrade your house with a loft conversion, please get in touch with our specialists today to arrange a free consultation.