Loft conversion -- added house value -- St Francis estate

[Alex K]

We're in one of the little matchboxes, two-up-two-down, on the St Francis estate. No question that a loft conversion would increase habitability.

But would it increase house value, as assessed by an estate agent?

Zoopla and RightMove values, comparing converted-loft house with next-door-non-converted-loft house, don't show that the investment adds value. (Cf. 73 Abbotswood Road, not converted, with 71 AWR, converted... the former on Zoopla is actually a few hundred quid in the lead.)

I know that those website estimates are crude -- that's why I'm turning to EDF readers for the real story.

Your thoughts / experiences / opinions sought. Thanks.

[Blackcurrant]

Extra space always adds value. Estate agents will tell you it won't add more than it costs, but it's their job to discourage any works that might delay getting a property on their books. The only issue with small st Francis estate houses is the small ground floor would leave the house top-heavy so extend into the garden at the same time if you can. Look at potential increase in square footage - extending a small house can have a big impact. Also look at prices of other modern 3 bed houses with equivalent square footage. Don't use zoopla, their metric for value added by improvements doesn't work.

[indiepanda]

Definitely adds value. I've watched various neighbours properties go on the market (I am on Underhill), some with, some without loft conversions and other extensions and it makes a big difference if they've been extended. I think it's generally accepted things that add more space pay off, whereas a fancy new kitchen might not.

The point about being top heavy is fair. My house had the loft converted before I move in, and it does feel like a 2 bed house with an extra bedroom rather than a true three bed. Although my last three bed before I bought this had an integral garage on the ground floor, so I guess that had a similar imbalance between living space and sleeping / bathroom.

If you can add in an en suite I would seriously think about doing so. I use the loft conversion as my bedroom but it's a bit of a trek to the bathroom.