A step-by-step guide to adding value to your house ¦ Property Guides on Times Online

- Check with the planners: A lot of home improvements can be done without planning permission these days. But it is worth checking before the work starts. If you do have to apply for planning permission, allow for the costs involved and the extra time you'll need for permission to be granted. Check the planning portal for details on the procedure to follow and costs.

- Find a builder: Builders are often found through personal recommendations although this may not always be the best route as projects differ widely. Local councils often provide lists of local tradesmen or you can contact the Federation of Master Builders on www.findabuilder.co.uk. The trade organisation has 13,000 members which are vetted and required to adhere to a code of practice.

- Get a quote: It is essential that you know exactly what you want from the project even before you ask for a quote. So make a detailed list of what work needs doing and keep in mind your budget - remember, spend too much and your will erode the value adding potential of your project. A detailed quote will help the builder to give you a more accurate price for the job. Once you have a quote, be clear about what is included in the price. For example, flooring, painting and decorating is rarely including in a quote for an extension. Be clear about who is going to provide the materials. It is worth getting at least three quotes as prices can vary widely. Check whether the builder is registered for VAT and allow for this cost in your budget calculations.

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- Use a contract: Draw up a written contract, with an agreed timetable that both you and the builder are happy with. Put everything in writing. Don’t agree to extra bits of work as you go along without additional written estimates - costs can very easily spiral out of control.

- Pay promptly : Set out a timetable for how and when payment will take place throughout the project, so that you can plan ahead. When you get to each stage, check you are happy with the work and pay promptly. The final instalment is usually paid once all works are completed to your satisfaction.

- What adds value to your home?

An extra bedroom +6 per cent

An extra bathroom +5 per cent

Loft conversion +21 per cent

No central heating -7 per cent

Parking +6 per cent

New kitchen +4 per cent

Conservatory +4 to 5 per cent

Source: Nationwide building society and RICS