Weigh the Options: Factors to Ponder Before Expanding Your Residence or Relocating
14 Jul 2023 | Expanding Living Space: Moving or Extending?
Facing dwindling space in a home as families grow or elderly relatives move in, homeowners often find themselves weighing the options of moving to a larger property or extending the existing one. Both choices offer their unique benefits and drawbacks.
Adding a Mansard Loft Conversion: The Benefits
Opting for a Mansard loft conversion offers several advantages. This type of attic conversion typically provides the greatest headroom and living space among available options, effectively creating an additional storey in the house[1][2][5]. Moreover, Mansard styles often seamlessly integrate with existing properties, giving the impression of a naturally evolved structure[2][5].
By investing in a Mansard conversion, homeowners can significantly boost their property's value[1][2]. Additionally, unlike moving, there's no need to endure the stress and expense of selling, buying, and relocating[1][4]. Mind you, Mansard conversions may come with a hefty price tag, commencing from £60,000, and potentially surpassing that for double Mansards or in high-demand regions[1][2].
Adding a Mansard Loft Conversion: Limitations
However, Mansard conversions are not without their compromises. They typically require planning permission, which can be a time-consuming process, taking at least eight weeks to secure[1][2]. The construction period usually lasts 8–12 weeks, resulting in a disruptive atmosphere rife with noise, dust, and general upheaval in daily life[1]. Furthermore, these projects must adhere to stringent building regulations, such as fire safety and structural integrity standards[2][3].
Moving to a Larger Home: The Benefits
In contrast to extending, moving to a larger abode offers immediate access to additional living areas and possibly a desirable location. The selling and purchasing process may also provide the opportunity to forgo renovations, thereby eliminating construction-related complications altogether[1][2][3].
Moving to a Larger Home: Drawbacks
Moving often implies considerable financial burden, considering factors like stamp duty, legal fees, and removal costs[1][2]. The unpredictable housing market can add stress and uncertainty to the process[1]. Moreover, relocating can be an emotionally taxing experience, especially when attached to the home or neighbourhood in question[3].
The Choice: A Matter of Priorities
Striking a balance between the advantages and disadvantages of either approach is crucial. A Mansard loft conversion provides immediate financial returns and personal satisfaction through increased living space. In contrast, moving to a larger home offers instant access to space and potential lifestyle improvements, such as modern amenities, outdoor space, and different neighbourhoods[1][2][3].
In the end, the decision between adding an extension or moving comes down to individual priorities, budget, and overall housing goals.
Note: This post is contributed by a content partner aiming to inspire readers to embrace a slower, simpler, soulful, and sustainable lifestyle. The content includes affiliate links to relevant purchases and experiences as a way to support the platform.
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- Embracing a slower, simpler, soulful, and sustainable lifestyle, homeowners seeking more space might consider incorporating home-improvement projects like a Mansard loft conversion, ideal for small businesses or home-and-garden initiatives, as it offers increased living space and boosts property value without the stress and expense of moving.
- On the other hand, moving to a larger home can provide instant access to modern amenities, various neighborhoods, and outdoor spaces, though it carries a significant financial burden, including stamp duty, legal fees, and removal costs, as well as potential emotional stress associated with relocation.
