As the holiday season approaches, homeowners are not just thinking about twinkling lights and festive gatherings; they have the chance to transform their Christmas tree into a powerful asset.
New research from broker Mojo Mortgages reveals that creating an inviting space for your holiday centrepiece can add an impressive £49,487 to the value of an average-priced property.
Imagine hosting friends and family in a beautifully renovated home that not only showcases your stunning tree but also enhances your overall living experience.
From open-plan layouts that allow for panoramic views of your decorations to cosy wood burners that create a warm atmosphere, these upgrades can transform your home into a winter wonderland while boosting its market appeal.
1. Open-plan living
- Cost: £6,000
- Value increase: +6% (+£16,050)
First up is open-plan living, which can turn your Christmas tree into a showstopper from every angle. For approximately £6,000, you can create a space that allows your beautifully decorated tree to shine. This layout enhances natural light and creates a welcoming atmosphere for family gatherings.
Plus, it could boost your house value by 6%, translating to around £16,050. That’s a potential profit of £10,000—definitely a smart investment for the holidays and beyond.
2. Wood burner installation
- Cost: £3,925
- Value increase: +5% (+£13,375)
Next, consider installing a wood burner to create the ultimate cosy haven. For about £3,925, you can add a wood burner with a hearth and a real wood beam for hanging stockings. This addition not only provides warmth during the winter months but also creates an inviting environment perfect for holiday celebrations.
On top of that, the average wood burner adds 5% to your property’s value, which means an increase of around £13,375 on the average house price. Again, that’s nearly £10,000 in potential profit.
3. Hardwood flooring
- Cost: £2,800
- Value increase: +2.5% (+£6,687)
Let’s face it: cleaning up fallen needles is no one’s idea of fun. Natural wood floors are not only stylish but also practical for keeping things tidy during the festive season. Plus, they add durability and timeless elegance to your home—definitely a win-win! They’re also easier to clean than carpets, so if you go for any winter walks, you’ll find it much simpler to clean up any mud from trailed-through boots.
While the investment will cost approximately £2,800, Rightmove’s research shows that homes with wood flooring sell for an average of 2.5% more, which translates to an increase of £6,687 on the average-priced property.
4. Loft storage solutions
- Cost: £2,270
- Value increase: Not directly measurable
If storage is a concern when holiday decorations start piling up, consider making your loft more accessible and storage-friendly. Boarding out your loft and adding a light switch along with a hatch and drop-down ladder will cost around £2,270.
While this enhancement doesn’t directly increase your property value, it creates a feature that many buyers appreciate—everyone always needs extra storage space!
5. Bay window installation
- Cost: £2,000
- Value increase: Not directly measurable
If you want to turn your Christmas tree into a festive highlight for the whole street, a bay window is the perfect addition! Not only does it beautifully showcase your tree, but it also enhances the overall aesthetic of your home, making it more inviting and charming.
Whilst the investment costs approximately £2,000, this feature can significantly boost your curb appeal— in fact, studies show that two-thirds of buyers are deterred if a property lacks curb appeal.
6. Heightening your ceilings
- Cost: £1,950
- Value increase: +5% (£13,375)
High ceilings not only allow for grander trees that make a bold statement but also add a touch of luxury to your home.
Research shows that homes with ceilings 9ft or higher can sell for at least 5% more than those with standard heights—that’s an extra £13,375 on an average property. So, if you’re dreaming of a towering tree this holiday season, consider how those lofty ceilings can elevate both your festive decor and your property value
7. Smart thermostat installation
- Cost: £225
- Value increase: Not directly measurable
Finally, installing a smart thermostat can help keep your real Christmas tree alive for longer. This may be the cheapest installation at around £225, but it plays an important role in maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels to ensure your tree stays hydrated and vibrant throughout the season. No one wants to deal with a sad-looking tree halfway through December!
John Fraser-Tucker, Head of Mortgages at Mojo Mortgages, shares his insights on the impact of these festive enhancements on property value.
He said, “While none of these upgrades are essential, they can significantly boost your property’s appeal and value. Features like high ceilings that allow for a grand Christmas tree or beautiful bay windows to showcase decorations can leave lasting impressions on potential buyers. Previous studies have shown that open-plan spaces can increase house values by up to 6%, while homes with high ceilings can see a 5% increase. That’s a potential £29,425 boost on an average-priced home!
“But it’s not all about the pounds and pence. There’s a special kind of magic in creating a warm, inviting home during the holidays. A beautifully decorated Christmas tree brings joy and nostalgia, helping families create memories that last a lifetime. These emotional connections can be just as valuable as the financial benefits.
“So, as you’re decking the halls this year, think about how these enhancements could transform your home. You’re not just creating the perfect backdrop for your Christmas tree—you’re potentially adding significant value to your property. It’s a win-win that keeps giving long after the decorations come down!”
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