Investment & Why Convert

Most home improvements if done properly, tastefully and appropriate to the property - will add value.

Extra rooms, en-suites, garages etc add some value. Press links below show that loft conversions always top the "investing in your home" league.

Most experts agree that Loft conversion can add 20% to the value of your home-see press links below.

The cost of moving from a 3 bed to a 4 bed can be up to 100k. There is an abundance of 3 bed bedroom property in the UK compared to 4 bedrooms, so there is a big difference in price between 3 and 4 bedroom houses.

Consider the costs of moving

Estate agent fees
Removal costs
Solicitor fees
Surveyor’s fees
Mortgage fees
Council tax
Homebuyers pack fees
Mail re-direction
Stamp duty
New home improvements

Apart from the financial costs, there is the major upheaval and stress of moving.

The possibility of new schools for your children for an average home in England the cost of moving exceeds 15k but can easily be a multiple of this figure in the south of England or with larger or more desirable locations.

Building a loft conversion with a bedroom and a bathroom can add 20% to the average home's value, say experts.

Be a convert

Check your attic is suitable Not every attic is worth converting. If it is too low in the middle or the pitch too steep, you will be unable to create a decent-sized room without lowering the ceilings of the rooms below - which will cost a lot. Building regulations stipulate minimum headroom of 2.3 metres under the apex and 2 metres over the stairs.

Here you will find loft conversion related articles from newspapers, websites, and magazines.

Decide if you want to convert the existing space or extend. You can convert existing space of up to 50 cubic metres for a detached or semi or 40 for a terraced property, but if you alter the roof line or change the external appearance of your home (by adding a mansard or dormer window, for example), you need planning permission. Building control will also be involved.

Talk to your neighbours. Work affecting any wall, floor or ceiling of an adjoining property will require a party-wall agreement.

Calculate the costs. A basic fit-out, including a bedroom and shower room, should cost £30,000-£40,000. Set aside about 15% more to cover unforeseen expenditure.

Find the right people for the job. Touchstone lofts are an experienced and professional specialist loft conversion company and are affiliated to the biggest government recognised body “THE FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS” and we are “MASTERBOND” affiliated. Contact us

Think about going green. Converting your loft is the perfect opportunity to add solar panels and improve your insulation.

Don’t try a covert conversion. Nosy neighbours are sure to notice - and you’ll need a completion certificate for the work from a building-control officer when you sell the house.

Who else do you need to tell? Keep your mortgage lender and insurer informed, as a conversion could affect your premium.