Tips for Successful Home Upsizing
22nd August 2024
Upsizing your home is an exciting project, offering a chance to create a living space that truly fits your growing needs.
Whether it's for a growing family, more room for hobbies, or added comfort, upsizing allows you to tailor your living environment to fit your lifestyle. With thoughtful planning, you can find the perfect home that enhances your everyday life. In this blog, we’ll explore the objectives of upsizing and provide some tips if you are considering either upsizing your current home or moving to a new one.
Objective of upsizing
Upsizing is different for everyone. A great way to start is by writing down what you hope to achieve from the project. Consider these three categories:
- Inside:
More space inside your home can make a significant difference. You might need additional bedrooms for a growing family or frequent guests, a larger kitchen for entertaining, or a dedicated workspace for productivity. Creating specific areas for relaxation, like a wellness space or cinema room, can also enhance your living experience. - Outside:
Outdoor space is a crucial factor in upsizing. A garden or balcony offers a private retreat and a safe area for children or pets to play. Having a place to park one or more cars adds convenience and security, making your daily routine smoother. - Lifestyle:
Lifestyle changes often drive the decision to upsize. Moving to a better neighbourhood can offer quieter streets, top-rated schools, and faster transport links. Proximity to shops and amenities, along with an improved view, can significantly enhance your quality of life.
Consider Upsizing Current Home
If you love your current location but need more space, consider these home improvement ideas:
Loft Conversion
A loft conversion can transform an under-utilised attic into a primary bedroom or additional children's bedrooms. This not only increases your living space but could also add significant value to your home.
Garage Conversion
Converting your garage can provide you with a new living area, an annexe for elderly relatives, or extra bedrooms and bathrooms. It's a fantastic way to make use of existing space without extending your home's footprint.
Kitchen Extension
Expanding your kitchen can create a central family hub that opens out to the garden.
Garden Cabin
Adding a self-contained cabin in the garden can serve as a dedicated workspace, wellness area, or guest suite. This option allows you to expand your living space creatively while enjoying the benefits of outdoor surroundings.
Considerations Before Starting Home Improvements
Before you start any home improvement project, keep these important factors in mind:
Building Regulations and Planning Permissions
Before starting any major home improvements, it's essential to check what extensions are allowed in your area and secure the necessary approvals from your local council. This ensures your project complies with local laws and building codes, helping you avoid potential legal issues.
Costs and Time
Accurate budgeting is crucial, as initial estimates often exclude additional costs. Make sure to include these in your budget. Additionally, it is always best to confirm the project timeline to avoid delays and plan accordingly. If you are looking for an option
Interruptions
Building work can often take longer than expected, causing more disruption. It’s a good idea to budget for temporary accommodation in case your home becomes un-liveable.
Upsizing to new home
Considering Location
When upsizing, it's always a good idea to consider whether you're paying extra for features you won't fully utilise. For example, living near top-rated schools can increase house prices by an average of £38,600 according to Yopa, a Leicestershire-based real estate agency. If you don't have school-aged children, this premium might not be worth it. Similarly, if you always drive to the supermarket, it may not matter if they're a bit further away. It is best to assess your needs honestly to find a location that fits your lifestyle without unnecessary costs.
Considering Finances
Getting caught out by unexpected costs can disrupt your plans significantly. When planning to upsize, make sure to budget for all the additional expenses. These include stamp duty, mortgage arrangement fees, estate agent fees for selling or renting your current home, conveyancing services, and a removals firm. Also, consider the ongoing costs of running a larger home, such as higher heating bills, council tax, and mortgage repayments.
Don't forget about new furniture and any immediate improvements you want to make.
Shopping Around for Estate Agents
Not all estate agents charge the same fees, so shopping around can save you a significant amount of money. Start by inviting several agents to value your home and discuss their services. This not only gives you a range of valuations but also helps you understand what each agent offers. It's a good idea to get at least three valuations to get a clear picture of your home's market value.
Once you have a few valuations, don't be afraid to negotiate the fees. Even a small reduction in the agent's commission can save you money.
Additionally, take the time to read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family. A reputable agent with a good track record can make the selling process smoother and potentially quicker. The goal is to find an agent who offers the best service at a reasonable price, helping you maximise the proceeds from your current home to put towards your upsized dream home.
Conclusion
Upsizing your home is an exciting journey that offers the promise of more space and new opportunities. While the process can seem daunting, a little planning and consideration can make all the difference. By carefully assessing your needs, budgeting for all potential costs, and choosing the right professionals to help you, you can make the transition smoothly and confidently. The goal is to create a living space that truly fits your lifestyle and brings you joy. With thoughtful preparation, your dream of a larger, more comfortable home is well within reach.