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As a landlord, you’re undoubtedly always looking for ways to improve your rental property so as to attract the right tenants. Some of the surest ways to make your property more appealing are investing in the latest energy efficient technologies or improving the aesthetics of the apartment or house you’re renting.
But what if there was a way to seamlessly combine form and functionality? Well, luckily for you, if you’re on the market for an efficient and visually appealing property upgrade, you have a great option available to you – a conservatory. Keep reading to find out what a conservatory can add to your property!
What are conservatories?
Conservatories are extensions to a property, typically made of multiple glass panes. Because they’re primarily made of glass, they open and brighten up the space, seamlessly blending the indoors and outdoors.
Conservatories have a rich history in the UK. The first ones were installed in the 17th century and they were used primarily as greenhouses until the 20th century. Around that time, improvements were made to window glazing, making them more suitable for residential purposes.
Nowadays, conservatories have several advantages. For tenants, they provide more indoor square footage and increased energy efficiency when fitted with double or triple glazing. For you, installing a conservatory can primarily mean attracting the right tenants to your property.
How much do conservatories cost?
Adding a conservatory to your rental property can cost anywhere from £9,000 and up to £50,000. Exactly how much you’ll spend depends on the size of the conservatory, the type of installation you opt for, as well as on the kind of glazing and frame materials you want to add.
Each of these factors will have a significant impact on making your total costs lower or higher. When it comes to glazing, for instance, double glazed windows prices will be lower than triple glazing. In terms of materials, uPVC and aluminium frames are cheaper than wooden frames.
While cost is definitely something you’ll need to consider, make sure to weigh the prices against the kind of look you want to achieve with your investment. This way, you can make sure that you don’t compromise either on your budget or on the functionality and aesthetic of your conservatory.
What kind of value can a conservatory add to your property?
Installing a conservatory adds value to your rental property in two ways: visual appeal and functionality.
A conservatory can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your property, as its big windows create a light and airy feel. At the same time, they can make the entire property seem more spacious, blurring the lines between the indoors and the outdoors. This can be a major selling point for potential tenants, especially those who enjoy spending time outside.
In terms of functionality, conservatories provide additional living space that can be used for a variety of purposes. Some popular uses for this space include turning it into a dining room, a home office, or a sunroom. As a result, this extra space can be a major perk for tenants with families, or for those who are looking for a larger space.
At the same time, by fitting your conservatory with double or triple glazed windows, you ensure your property’s energy efficiency – another attractive feature for prospective tenants. A conservatory adds aesthetic appeal without leading to energy loss and the heightened costs that come with it, a point you can emphasise to attract tenants.
What advantages does a conservatory bring?
If you’re thinking of adding a conservatory to your rental property, here are some benefits you can expect from your investment:
- Increased rental income: A property with a conservatory is likely to involve a higher rent than a similar property without one. The extra square footage and unique features of a conservatory can make your property stand out and some tenants may be willing to pay a higher price for this extraordinary feature.
- Attract the right tenants: Conservatories tend to attract tenants who appreciate a modern and versatile living space. Professionals working from home might find the conservatory ideal for a bright and airy home office, while families can utilise it as a playroom or extra dining area. As a result, you’ll be able to easily choose the kind of tenants you’d want for your property.
- Low maintenance: Conservatories are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning. Modern conservatories are built with durable materials and require minimal upkeep from you as a landlord. This translates to less hassle for you and ensures that the conservatory remains a valuable asset for your property for years to come.
- Enhanced energy efficiency: Many conservatories are designed with energy-efficient features like double glazing and insulated roofing. This can help tenants lower their utility bills, making your property even more attractive to them. Additionally, the natural light provided by the conservatory can further reduce reliance on artificial lighting, further saving on energy costs.
What do I need to consider before installing a conservatory?
Before adding a conservatory to your rental property, there are a few things to consider. These include:
- Planning permission: You will need to check whether you need planning permission from your local authorities before you can build your conservatory.
- Building regulations: Conservatories must comply with building regulations, so it’s important to consult and work with a reputable builder.
- Tenant agreement: You’ll need to make sure that your tenancy agreement covers the use and maintenance of the conservatory.
Overall, adding a conservatory to your rental property can be a great way to improve its aesthetic and functional appeal, attract high-quality tenants, and potentially increase your rental income. So, give it some thought and consider how you can brighten up your property with a conservatory to reap all its benefits.
