Home improvements can be costly, so those selling property want to know they can get a return on investment. In this article, InHouse Inspired Room Design shares a few concepts that tradespeople can use to ensure their labour helps boost property value.
You may have noticed more contracts to work on private homes, and an increase in home improvements for property investment and sales.
Homebuyers are more discerning about what they want, and due to their busy lifestyles they are less likely to be looking for ‘fixer uppers’ than in previous years. So, property developers and estate agents want to provide homes with the latest eye-catching features and décor in order to boost their sales.
But which improvements actually add value to a property, and how can tradespeople make sure their services positively impact house sales? To help attract more buyers and increase property value, here are six up-and-coming home improvement concepts to consider.
Multi-functional spaces
Open plan homes, particularly kitchens, diners, and living spaces, had already been rising in popularity pre-pandemic. But, as more people use their homes as offices, classrooms, gyms, and other environments, property experts want to provide buyers with homes that can be easily transformed and personalised.
Wide open spaces with compartmentalisation through décor, rather than walls and partitions, is ideal for this. Tradespeople should prepare for plenty of home improvement contracts that turn individual rooms into multi-functional spaces.
Remember, before you take on work to open up space inside a property, double, then triple check you’re not putting the structure of the building at risk. Construction on load-bearing walls should be approached with care and caution.
If the homeowner wants work carried out on a flat they have purchased, permission may be needed form the freeholder. And any work done on a house may have to be reviewed by the local authority before work can begin.
In both cases, it’s advisable to hire a surveyor to make sure the proposed work is above board, and more importantly, safe.
Storage solutions
Where spare bedrooms, lofts, and outbuildings were once predominantly used for storage, these are being turned into hobby rooms, work areas, and other functional spaces. This means huge potential for carpenters looking to enhance a homeowner’s storage solutions. Bespoke storage can be built into any room with space that’s not being used to its full potential. Cupboards, draws, wardrobes, and multi-functional furniture can maximise space and offers carpenters the chance to use their creative powers.
Bringing the inside out
Landscaping has never been more important, as many home hunters now list a garden as one of their most sought-after features when buying a property. Landscapers and gardeners will obviously benefit from this, but joiners, electricians, and even plumbers can expect requests for more garden-centric projects such as outdoor kitchens.
These incorporate features such as sinks and cookers alongside decking and garden furniture to create an outdoor space that’s perfect for socialising. Demand for summerhouses that take indoor comforts outside – even in the classic British weather – is also increasing.
Again, double-check the owner has or needs planning permission before contracts are signed. And it’s worth asking the owner if they have spoken to the neighbours about work they plan to have done. Even simple projects can cause disputes that last years.
Going green
The sustainability movement and increased public interest in greener ways of living has led to a spike in demand for eco-friendly home improvements. These can range from installing insulation, double, triple, and quadruple glazing, smart heating and water systems, and even electric vehicle charging points.
You can either add eco-friendly services like these to your repertoire, or make your current services as eco-friendly as possible. For example, working exclusively with recycled or sustainable materials, or minimising journeys to reduce your carbon footprint.
Kitchens and bathrooms
While other features like a gym, home office, or outdoor dining area have become more fashionable, kitchen and bathroom remodels are still one of the most valuable additions you can make to a home. So, while widening the scope of your projects and branching out into new areas, be careful not to neglect your core offerings and let their standards slip.
Home improvements are booming, but so is the market for homes with the latest trends. These concepts for tradespeople can help ensure that their labour improves property value and result in better sales.
Tradesman Talk
Are homeowners requesting the same kind of work on their property? Or do you have your own predictions on projects set to trend this year?
What about green investment?
With energy bills increasing, are customers looking for ways to save money and improve their EPC rating?
Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
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Until next time, make sure it’s Tradesman Saver.
