According to a new study by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), homeowners can add just under £50,000 to the value of their homes in just seven days for less than £4,000.
One of the biggest interior design trends, broken plan/open plan can be achieved for only £3,500- a huge bargain when you consider the value it can add to any home. In fact, knocking down a wall to create a broken plan or open plan kitchen will add £26,000 to the value of the average property- that amounts to a massive 643%.
Homeowners in London will be able to take advantage of increases of £48,000, while in Devon, Surrey and Dorset you’re looking at boosts of £35,000, £31,000 and £27,000 respectively. Homes in the North of England can also expect boosts of around £10,000 and in Cambridgeshire the average increase is £6,000.
Belgravia estate agent, Best Gapp said, “By making a relatively small investment, you can create a contemporary new look for your home that’s much sought after and will add huge value. If you’re looking to move, it makes perfect sense to add as much value as you possibly can. Projects like open plan kitchens can be finished in less than a week and create a modern, airy effect that house hunters love.”
With the snow finally gone for a good few months and the summer well and truly on its way, now is the perfect time to consider home improvements. “Now’s the time to invest in low cost, high return home improvements, and open plan kitchens are among the quickest and easiest to achieve” said Robert Holmes.
For any significant home improvement, especially one that involves structural changes, you’ll need to hire an experienced and reliable builder. Not only are you more likely to get a high end finish, hiring an expert will ensure the project is completed safely, on time and to budget.
Whenever you’re hiring a tradesperson it’s important to do your research. Word of mouth is always the best form of advertising, but if you’re new to the area or don’t have reliable recommendations from friends or family you can use the FMB’s free online “Find a Builder” service. All members are vetted and inspected, so you can minimise the risk element of picking a builder and have the peace of mind that you’re inviting a qualified and trustworthy professional into your home. With more unscrupulous builders targeting hard pressed homeowners and a rise in fake internet reviews, it’s important to do as much research as you possibly can.
“Going through a reputable organisation such as the FMB will give you peace of mind that you’re making the right decision and not enlisting a cowboy tradesperson who will do a shoddy job and run off with your money” says Plaza Estates.
The trend for open plan and broken plan kitchens is a hot property topic for 2018 and looks set to continue over the coming years, so even if you’re not planning an imminent move this is a great home improvement choice.