In the second part of our series, we reveal ways in which you can add value to your home with the help of a green oak frame built by English Oak Buildings. Whether you want to increase the market price of your property for the future, or are looking for a specific investment opportunity, we’re giving the low-down on ways oak architecture can be financially beneficial to your self-build.

In the first part of the series, we looked at the advantages of oak extensions – whether for improving your kitchen, adding an extra bedroom, creating a home office, or introducing a garden room. In this blog post, we’re looking at

Garden Features

And by garden features we don’t just mean a rockery or a tilted shed at the end of the lawn! Having an impressive and attractive piece of oak garden architecture could really increase the value of your property – and a well-designed outdoor space can make all the difference when trying to sell a property.

We’ve worked on some stunning pieces of garden architecture in the past – from oak bridges, to pergolas, to belvederes. Not only do they create a beautiful feature, but they help to add a feeling of privacy. For example, pergolas can be up to 4m without needing planning permission even if they are right up to the boundary, and this can add a sense of seclusion which will be very appealing to some home-owners.

Ornamental bridges add an exotic charm and can help to conjure the feeling of a zen-like Japanese garden, as well as helping to create distinctive areas within your outside space. They also add a grandeur which will increase the perception of value – much in the way a belvedere is an unforgettable talking-point and statement piece for your home and garden. Memorable features that have a real aesthetic impact help set it apart from others – these ‘wow-factors’ will only be enhanced as you climb up the property ladder, and will add value and a notable premium to the sale price.

Porches

Never underestimate the importance of an impressive porch. This is often the first thing you see when approaching a home, and for this reason you can add value by making this factor stand out.

For one thing, having a structurally sound property is imperative. So if your porch can relay a sense of stability and strength this works in your favour and helps put buyers mind’s at rest. It’s also a great chance to enhance elements of the building’s character, or get rid of an inappropriate or old-fashioned/unpleasant looking porch! Remember, this sets the scene for the rest of the house. And, from a financial point of view, adding a porch helps reduce the chill in winter and therefore saves money.

Make the most of your land

You’ve got a small plot of land that’s not being used, and it’s such a shame because it’s too insignificant to really do anything with, or you’re concerned about planning permission… well, think again! You could be sitting on a goldmine. With a self-build, you’d be surprised what kind of magic can be created with a bespoke oak frame from English Oak Buildings. Through careful planning, we can design a structure that adheres to guidelines, doesn’t require special permission, yet still embraces the beauty of a bespoke oak frame (see our example for Will Trickett, here). This could be an extension, off-street parking, a small guest-house or cabin, or stable for those looking to keep a horse. All of these factors will massively increase the value of your property.

Keep your eyes peeled for our next blog in the series, where we’ll discuss the benefits of garages, swimming pools, and getting over the problem of awkward access.