Converting a loft or attic might be a great way to increase the value of your home, since it instantly allows you the chance to increase the number of rooms within your property by one. It is important to remember, however, that the manner in which the loft or attic is converted will have a big impact on just how much value is added to the building. You might also want to keep in mind that not all lofts can be converted; there are specific requirements that will allow these areas to be transferred into bedrooms.
Determining your Budget
The amount that you have to spend will have a big impact on the extent of the conversion, and ultimately, the overall value of the property once this project has come to a close. While some people have chosen to convert a loft into a simple bedroom by opting to install a roof, floor and temporary walls, others have chosen to go the whole hog by converting the space into a proper room with an en-suite bathroom. In the end, it is up to the individual to determine how much they would like to spend, as well as the end result that they would like to obtain once the conversion has been accomplished.
Can Every Loft be Converted?
Not ever loft or attic can be converted into a bedroom, and so it is best to ensure that you are aware of the limitations and challenges that you will face once you take on this project. The following facets will affect whether the space can be converted; the dimensions of the room (including the length and height of the room), the condition and dimensions of the stairwell, and the temperature within the space. If the living conditions are not healthy or comfortable, you will either have to spend more money to ensure that these challenges are overcome, or you might not be able to convert the space at all.
Designing your New Bedroom
Before the space is converted, you need to take some time to fill the room with furniture and decor; since you won’t be able to place these items within the space before the project has come to a close, you need to accomplish all of this by measuring the allotted space and using a scaled down drawing to determine whether you have enough room to furnish another bedroom. If an issue arises with regards to the furnishings that can be fitted into the space, you will be able to make another plan early on.
Increasing the Appeal of the Property
Once the investment has been made into converting the property, you will be able to benefit from the fact that homes with a higher number of rooms tend to be more appealing than smaller ones, and these types of houses are able to sell for a higher price. It is important that you consider the costs of converting the new room and weigh these cons with the advantages of owning a property with an extra bedroom; if the costs outweigh the advantages, it might not be worth taking on this project. On the other hand, if the benefits outweigh the disadvantages, this could be a very exciting new project to undertake, as well as one that will benefit the homeowners in the long run.
Fleur is a DIY enthusiast and regularly writes for the website WhatNewHomes, an online property resource for UK based consumers.