Agents reveal how to add value

Posted: 07 Nov 2006 11:23:36 GMT

Adding a downstairs extension is the most sure-fire method to add value to your property through home improvement, estate agents have reported

Adding a downstairs extension is the most sure-fire method to add value to your property through home improvement, estate agents have reported.

Almost three quarters (70 per cent) said that this would add to property value, followed by 65 per cent who said that they would get more cash for a home with a new kitchen.

In third place was adding an additional bedroom or study, picked by 57 per cent of agents, said the Alliance & Leicester survey.

Homeowners tended to disagree strongly with the expert assessment however, claimed the poll, and would happily commit "DIY disasters" such as install obviously non-professional kitchen units, remove period features or use patterned carpets.

"Whatever we may think of them, estate agents are the experts when it comes to what helps or harms a sale," said Alliance & Leicester's Richard Al-Dabbagh.

"They conduct valuations of properties on a daily basis so they know that, while you may be proud of your carpentry attempts in the kitchen, they will deter most potential buyers."

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