A
quick internet search will soon show you the popularity of holiday cottages
nowadays. Many people convert disused barns, stables and outbuildings on their
land into cottages that can be rented out to holiday makers, and if you manage
your self-catering accommodation well, it can produce a good income.
But
what about if you could add some more accommodation to your cottage? Holiday
homes can really benefit from the addition of a Loft
Conversion. Essex holiday cottages are hot property right now,
particularly those that are located at the gateway to Suffolk and Norfolk too,
so why not make the most of yours with an attic conversion?
Extra Bedrooms
The
most obvious benefit of adding a loft conversion to a holiday cottage are the
extra bedrooms that you can create with it. Obviously it depends on the size of
the cottage, but if your holiday accommodation was originally old stables, or a
coach house, then you’ll probably be able to fit at least one bedroom under the
eaves.
If
you opt to add another bedroom, it’s a good idea to furnish it with a different
type of bed to that which is in the existing bedroom or bedrooms.
For
example, if your cottage was originally a one bedroom cottage with a double
bedroom, create the extra bedroom as a twin bedded room. This way the loft
bedroom becomes ideal for children, or friends, to share. Better still, invest
in ‘zip and lock’ mattresses which will give you the option of creating either
twin beds or a double with the slide of a zip!
Additional Bathrooms
If
you have the space within your cottage, it’s wise to add bathrooms to any attic
bedrooms that you create. If you can, add en suite bathrooms within the new
loft bedrooms so that each of your guests have their own bathroom space.
If
this isn’t practical, even adding another shared bathroom or a cloakroom toilet
to your cottage will make it more attractive to holiday makers.
A Whole New Apartment?
Now
this idea really does require the luxury of space, but if you can pull it off,
you could double your rental income. Is it possible that you could add a whole
self-contained apartment with its own access to your holiday property as part
of a loft conversion project? If so, this could really increase how much you can
earn from your property.
If
you are able to create this type of space, why not market it to two families
that wish to holiday together but like their own space? Or maybe to groups of
friends that are attending a function? You’ll be surprised by how many people
require large-scale accommodation.
Remember
that if you’re increasing your accommodation in any way, you may need to notify
your local authority with regards to licensing requirements and planning
permission, as well as comply with health and safety and fire regulations.
Loft
conversions come in all shapes and sizes, so you’re bound to find something to
suit the needs of your holiday home. If you’re not sure how a loft conversion
could work for you, speak to Bespoke Lofts. We’ll happily show you how your
holiday property can grow.