3
Sep
The benefits of a beautiful view
When people go to view potential new homes, the first thing some
discerning buyers do is head straight for the windows and take in
the view.
Shabby or distasteful decor can be redesigned and even the
structure of rooms can be rethought given enough time and a
substantial budget. However, no amount of effort or money can
replace a dismal view of a boring street or someone else's house
with a picture perfect lake or hill top, meaning it is important
people buying luxury homes opt for a view they know they will be
happy gazing out at for years to come.
Adding value with a view
But having a home with a great view is about more than simply
having something nice to look at, it also contributes significantly
to a property's value.
People are willing to pay a premium for an amazing view and it is
likely that it will help a property retain its value as it gives it
a unique selling point.
A recent study by the Post Office found that Brits would pay around
£20,000 more to have a property with a sea view, while people
would be willing to splash an extra £16,340 for a house with a
view of some green space.
"Our new Homebuyers Report shows that when it comes to location
homeowners are certainly prepared to shell out for an ocean view.
The right location is particularly important to over 35s looking to
put down long-term roots and bring up families," said Marco Hughes,
Post Office director of personal lending.
Figures from Savills back up the idea that Brits will spend much
more on a luxury property if it boasts a stunning view,
highlighting that house prices in areas such as Dartmouth are up by
as much as 362 per cent over the past ten years.
What types of view do people prefer?
A recent poll by Chevrolet aimed to find out what people's
favourite views are, with lakes featuring prominently in the top
ten.
The picturesque Lake Buttermere in Cumbria, which is surrounded by
rolling hills and dairy pasture proved particularly popular, as did
Derwentwater, which is also located in Cumbria.
Also making the list were the Seven Sisters white cliffs in East
Sussex, the scenic fishing port of St Ives and the peaceful Holkham
Beach in Norfolk.
The sparkling streams and lush meadows of Swaledale propelled the
Yorkshire region into the top ten, while Wastwater lake in Cumbria,
Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland and the dramatic landscape of
Loch Coruisk completed the list.
While few people are lucky enough to have a property overlooking
one of the above views, there are many hidden gems in the British
countryside and it is worth hunting around until you find the right
one.
And, for people who prefer a more urban dwelling, it is also
possible to get a stunning view in the middle of the city.
Cityscape views or windows which overlook rivers or park areas are
highly desirable.
How to make the most of your view
While there is little homeowners can do to dramatically alter the
view from their home, there are a number of measures that can be
taken to accentuate it.
More expensive, time consuming options could include installing a
bay window or a conservatory that people can sit in and admire the
view or fitting some outside lights so that it is still clearly
visible in the evening.
Many people opt to 'bring the view inside' by designing their decor
to complement the outdoor space, for example someone with a sea
view may opt for blue and green shades, while someone with a
hillside view may choose rustic browns and greens.
However, people choose to accentuate their views, they can rest
assured that they won't go out of style any time soon.
