Property valuer Ab van Eden carries out around 400 to 500 valuations each year. In his 16 years at Taxatheek The Hague, he has seen property prices shift, rise and reshape. And he’s noticed more and more people choosing to:
“I receive a clear overview of what will be renovated and which materials will be used,” Ab explains. “I also look at the home itself and its current condition. Based on that, I can estimate what the renovation will mean for the property value.”
A professional valuation matters if you want to finance your renovation through your (increased) mortgage.
And curious not only about the extra comfort but also what it does for your home’s value? Then take a look at Ab’s three practical tips.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Tip 1: Add more square metres","richBody":{"value":"“A dormer, an extension or an extra floor are the most reliable ways to boost both comfort and value,” Ab says. “If a couple is expecting a baby, a dark spare room can become a bright nursery simply by adding a dormer. And with permission for an extra floor, you instantly add dozens of square metres.”
“Most of the time, what you invest in extra space will come back in property value. But I also see cases where someone spends €30,000 and the home value increases by €40,000 based on the local price per square metre.”
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Tip 2: Upgrade what’s outdated","richBody":{"value":"“If the kitchen or bathroom is really dated, or if there are old gas heaters, upgrading to modern standards will usually increase the property value. Often by roughly the same amount you invest.”
Ab does give a small warning about taste. “Go for timeless, mainstream choices. Choose a neutral colour for bathroom fixtures, for example. If you pick something very bold or unusual, it can even reduce the value. If there is already a good, modern white kitchen and you replace it with a black one because you prefer it, that won’t add value. The home already had a quality kitchen.”
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","title":"Tip 3: Add something around the house","richBody":{"value":"“A carport or a covered terrace will increase your home’s value,” Ab explains. “But you won’t always get the full amount back.”
And the garden? Ab smiles. “Greenery is difficult to value. Taste plays a big role. Some love tiles with a few plants, others want a full flower garden. If your garden is already tidy and you invest €10,000, the value increase may be only €2,500. But if it’s currently a wild and overgrown space, the increase will be higher.”
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Good to know"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Ab van Eden is a property valuer at Taxatheek The Hague. His tips come from his experience in that region. Planning a renovation? Feel free to discuss your ideas with us in a free first mortgage consultation. No obligations. And always rely on a qualified valuer.
"}}]}}}