Basement or loft conversion?

[Anewname20]

Which do you think is more attractive? We have seen a property where a basement is a possibility. We could only afford to do one or the other. Which one do you think is better in terms of future saleability, wow or attractiveness?

Loft

I think the basement is more likely to more expensive in terms of upkeep and therefore the loft is better

Loft definitely. Basements are less or nil light and potential damp

Loft, definitely. More light, and also a lot cheaper and easier than having a basement dug out.

Thank you. Mumsnet has been really helpful in me making sense of things. I really appreciate the various perspectives. I thought most of you would have said basement but the clear advice is loft. 🙂

Loft is far more saleable and much much cheaper to do...

Defo loft. Basement really depends on light, we viewed a property with basement as an extra lounge, just hated it for lack of light.

Loft as pp says. Also, if it already has a basic basement, that’s attractive as storage for many people.

I was thinking it would open onto the garden with one of those fancy glass doors. The garden is north west facing. I know in the UK the direction of the garden is important with regards to light. The house is a typical 3 bed semi detached house almost at the bottom of a hill and that is why there is a basement space above ground. It would require opening up to create the space.

If there’s light, I’d say basement. Really depends on the access/size/price etc.

If there is good light, then basement. Otherwise loft.

Loft. I think councils are becoming more wary of giving consent for basements anyway, tbh.
At least in London.

Basement conversions generally tend to be a lot more expensive than loft ones - and structurally more complex too