Can’t find the home you’re looking for? Think ‘outside the box’...

It will come as little surprise to those looking to move home that there are presently the lowest number of properties on the market since July 2007 (according to According to the National Association of Estate Agents). The distinct lack of ‘for sale’ boards across the country putting pressure on house prices, combined with ongoing uncertainty as to what the next twelve months hold for the property market, has seen more people than ever before ‘think outside the box’ and add the space they need to their home through a garage or loft conversion.

This growing trend has been well documented over the past eighteen months by Cannock-based Buckley Loft Conversions - 2009 proved the busiest year in the firm’s nineteen year history and things showing no sign of slowing down in 2010 – all helped by the fact that most garage or loft conversions no longer require planning permission. MD John Davies explains how many are already making the smart choice in a recession by making a long term investment in their home - and gaining the extra space they need, to boot.

“It’s not an easy market for those looking to move home at present – and with continued uncertainty, it’s well worth considering how a garage or loft conversion could provide the solution to your needs without the hassle – or expense – of moving house.

“While most people are aware of the space and value that loft conversions can add in the form of an extra bedroom or office, fewer consider garage conversions – but they can be a great way of gaining the extra ground floor space you need, whether you want a bigger kitchen, to add a separate dining room or extend your existing lounge. Thanks to relaxed planning regulations most garage or loft conversions now don’t even require planning permission; so could completed be far quicker than you thought. And when you consider that the investment can add serious value to your home in the long term, it’s a sound alternative to moving in an uncertain market.”

For further advice on how a garage on loft conversion could provide the extra space you need visit www.loft-conversions.com or call 0800 136 152.