As hybrid working patterns evolve and more companies call staff back to the office, homeowners are beginning to reconsider how best to use the spaces once converted into home offices during the pandemic.
New analysis by estate agency Yopa suggests that reimagining these rooms could unlock thousands in additional property value – particularly when repurposed as dressing rooms or reading spaces.
During lockdown, the home office became a must-have feature, with estimates suggesting such a space could add up to 7.5% to a property’s value – equivalent to £20,141 based on the current average UK house price of £268,548.
However, Yopa’s research indicates that converting a now-underused office into a dressing room or walk-in wardrobe could add 14.5% to the value of a home, or £38,939 – representing an uplift of nearly £19,000 beyond the value already added by an office.
REFINED UPGRADE
A home library or reading room is also a strong contender for those seeking a refined upgrade, with an estimated value boost of 12% or £32,226. Even after accounting for the existing office value, this could translate to an additional £12,085 in potential gains.
For homeowners looking for more recreational options, a games room conversion could add £6,714 in value, while a home gym is thought to raise a property’s worth by 7.4%. Although slightly below the estimated impact of a home office, such a change may offer greater personal utility while retaining much of the added value.
Not all conversions, however, deliver strong returns. Utility rooms, laundry spaces, and cinema rooms are considered less desirable by potential buyers and could limit the overall uplift in value. For those planning to sell in the near future, keeping the home office intact may prove the most prudent course.
WORTH AN UPGRADE
Verona Frankish, Chief Executive of Yopa, says: “The dark days of pandemic lockdown restrictions and the requirement to work from home are thankfully a distant memory now, but for many, our homes still hold a reminder in the form of the workspace used at the time.
“With flexible working remaining a prominent feature today, the chances are that these spaces aren’t completely under utilised and, for potential buyers, a dedicated workspace can hold strong appeal adding an estimated £20,000 to the value of a home.
“However, there are a number of features that could add even more value should you choose to transform your pandemic workspace and so for those who have left their desks gathering dust, it could well be worth an upgrade, especially if you’re considering putting your house up for sale anytime soon.”
