Five ways to add value to your period property

Ben Fielding is a writer working on behalf of Prestige Floors

If you’re a homeowner, you are no doubt aware of how volatile the housing market can be. House prices can fluctuate, and if you’re looking to sell it can make your life much more challenging.

More and more homeowners are renovating their properties as a way to add value to them. A recent survey revealed 73% of homeowners, including over 9,500 landlords, have carried out a renovation project on their property to increase its value, with a whopping £41bn invested over the last five years.

Today’s homeowners, on average, set a budget of £16,100 for a renovation project. This might sound steep to you and me, but according to Zopa, home renovation can increase your property’s value by up to £30,000.

Sounds simple, right?

But what if you have a Victorian, Georgian or an Edwardian home? A house with history and character and requirements beyond the norm? A period property has features that may be harder to replace without compromising the heritage of the home. These factors will add to cost of the renovation work, making it a less viable option for many.

Here are five features of a period property you can easily restore or renovate, giving your without breaking the bank:

1. Timber Windows

If you have timber windows, try repairing them before you replace them. This is more cost effective, and helps retain the quality of the building without the disruption of any major work. It’s important to remember insulation, so consider investing in double-glazing.

They can also be painted in a variety of colours without detracting from the look of the property. There’s no need to invest in plastic of PVC windows. These wouldn’t match the aesthetics, and have a much shorter life span than timber frames.

2. Cast Iron Radiators & Fireplaces

A period fireplace is a popular and attractive feature that can add more value to your property. If you have an original fireplace, repair it – even if you don’t use it!

A cast iron radiator has the same appeal, and is more commonly found in Victorian-era properties. They are more expensive to buy or repair, but they can easily be turned into the main feature of a room, adding both charm and value to your property.

If it’s not an investment you want to make, a coat of heat-resistant paint to your existing radiator can replicate the look and feel of a cast iron radiator without the cost of buying one.

3. Vintage Wooden Flooring

A high-quality wooden floor gives any property a vintage atmosphere. Oak, for example, was very popular in Victorian times, and offers a rustic vibe to any room. If your period property has modern flooring, it may have antique flooring beneath. A little digging can confirm this, and may be worth considering refurbishment work on the original floor, or replacing it with rustic wooden parquet, blocks or blanks.

Keep the floor bare, with minimum covering to accentuate the cosy and warm appeal. A simple polish can help maintain the quality and the aesthetic. The wealthier homeowners of days gone by would also have intricately designed borders where the floor met the wall. A floral or geometric pattern is a beautiful finishing touch, and can be replicated for little additional cost to add value to your period house.

4. Traditional Front Door

A grandiose wooden front door with antique period features, such as a large knocking handle, really adds to the appeal and charm of your dream home. Always look to repair instead of replace if possible. Ensure the door is draught-proof, securely locks and is freshly painted, treated or polished.

5. Old World Paints

There’s an old saying: “A change is as good as a rest”. A fresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a period building, making it feel like a completely different home! For example, consider using lime mortar on the exterior walls, as cement can damage the brickwork.

Thinking about the interior design, going for darker hues such as red and maroon, like the more traditional historic palettes, can give your property a classic atmosphere. Alternatively, look for pastel shades of ivory or soft yellow to add a warmer feel to your period home.