Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Adding Value to Your Property - Part 2

Maintenance

Maintenance of a property may seem a bit of a bind, but without continuous attention, the value of a property will deteriorate along with its condition. Regular maintenance is the best investment that can be made in a property.

Water can cause major problems so keeping it out is very important. Start by checking the roof. Replacing broken tiles or repairing the lead flashing may not be a major job, but left unattended, could lead to problems. It's a good idea to check the guttering when it's raining. Blockages and leaks can often be spotted when viewed from across the road.

It's always worth casting an eye over the drains too. A drain cleared before a blockage occurs is easier on the nose and the wallet.

A regular lick of paint will keep a property looking good and keep deterioration at bay. A newly painted front door with shiny brass fittings always creates a good impression. When selling, a surveyor will be more impressed with ongoing maintenance than quick fixes aimed at making the property more appealing.



Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com

Adding Value to Your Property - Part 1

Extensions

Rising property prices and the premium being placed on space, makes extensions a wise investment. However, extending a property is a major project and shouldn't be undertaken lightly. Call in professionals to get the job done properly as there are important planning restrictions and regulations, which need to be followed. Ask friends to recommend reputable builders and an architect. If an extension is botched, it could end up devaluing a property rather than adding value.

An extension should match the architectural style of the existing house. Extra bathrooms and large kitchens are usually good investments in family-sized homes and a garage in a busy, urban area will also add value. A good extension could add thousands to the price of a property.

The room that usually benefits the most from enlarging is the kitchen. Adding a kitchen diner creates the farmhouse kitchen most people want and gives extra space. The old dining room can become an office, playroom, or somewhere to set out a model railway. Better still, build above the kitchen extension to add an extra bedroom at the same time.

Victorian or 1930s houses are ideal for loft conversions because of their high roof pitches. Prices will vary depending on how many bedrooms are added and whether an en-suite is required. A loft room will require less planning and building requirements than a bedroom. So do the research and speak to chartered surveyors and architects!

If there isn't a reason to expand, why not get a further advance on a mortgage and give the house a dream makeover. A new kitchen, bathroom and carpets will revive the passion in the property and increase its value at the same time.



Joseph Talbot, ASA
Sales Representative
Remax Clearview Inc. brokerage
705-733-5821

Check out more at
josephtalbot.ca

This article was provided by www.worldreferrals.com