Interior Design & Decor

Although we are constantly being told that the green shoots of economic recovery are slowly emerging it is still a difficult marketplace for anyone seeking to sell their home. Indeed, the first and most dramatic casualty of the current economic crisis was the lending market. As a result selling houses is now highly competitive and properties are not selling the instant they come onto the market regardless of their condition, as they did during the boom years. So, anything that can add value to your home and elevate it above similar properties on the market is a definite bonus. There is a long list of home improvements that are considerably costly, but which add very little overall value to your property. In addition, undertaking improvements to your home could even devalue the property, especially if the work done is not undertaken by professionals or left unfinished. Home improvements that have been shown to add no value to your property include the installation of a swimming pool, changing the use of a room from a bedroom to a gym or nursery, and assorted garden improvements such as the installation of decking. Not only are those features expensive to install but they could actually make your property less attractive to buyers. However, one area that has been shown to definitely add value to a residential property at very little cost is to install a number of energy saving features. Making a home more energy efficient is attractive to potential buyers, especially in times of fluctuating power supply prices. That can be done in a number of ways, starting with loft insulation and ensuring that it is installed to the current recommended depth. Also, the installation of cavity wall insulation and renewal of double glazing can also produce considerable energy savings, preventing heat from escaping through the property walls and roof. When it comes to internal changes, those considering the installation of a brand new kitchen are also presented with a range of energy saving opportunities. For example, new kitchen appliances all come with energy rating labelling clearly displayed on the appliance itself and on its packaging. When deciding which appliances to buy opt for the most efficient energy rated appliances, which are A-rated. New ranges of energy-efficient boilers can also save a considerable sum on an annual energy bill, and anyone considering buying a property will favourably look upon one that has a new or recently improved energy-efficient boiler. If you are considering splashing out on home improvements, keep an eye on any possible energy saving features that you can incorporate. It will be worth it in the long run.