Wrong improvements can devalue a house
Builders - 08/09/2006 13:49:26
Homeowners have been warned that calling in the builders may not add value to their property.
According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), some improvements could actually decrease the value of a property and put off potential buyers.
Building additional bedrooms, renovating old fireplaces and laying cheap flooring have all been shown to have a negative impact on the sale potential of houses.
RICS spokesman, Jeremy Leaf, says: "What appeals to some people may not appeal to others.
"Costly disappointments can be avoided with a little prior planning."
An estate agent who took part in the RICS survey claims that the notion that spending money on a property will significantly increase its value is "absurd".
The RICS has advised homeowners to remember the "ceiling value" of their property and to consider adding loft conversions, off-road parking or central heating to increase their home's value.
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