When it comes to turning a house into a warm and cosy home, there are very few household appliances that can rival the magic of an Aga range cooker. These iconic cookers have been the heart of British kitchens for generations, oozing comfort and a touch of traditional elegance with a hint of retro refinement. However, one other question is: “Are these traditional Aga cookers of any value to homeowners today beyond their nostalgic appeal?” Well, let us dive into the word of Agas to find out!
Picture this: the clouds just starting to clear on a frosty winter morning, the smell of coffee coming from the kitchen, and the comforting heat which emanates from an Aga cooker. Mary Berry, a celebrated chef cannot get enough of it and declares it the, “Heart of the kitchen.” She also adds that, ‘I love the warmth and the wonderful welcome. If I had to live without one, I’d loathe it.’ Similarly, in an interview with Agaliving, the award-winning chef Galton Blackiston says, “We installed it 15 years ago. It took a bit of getting used to, but for every bit of cooking we use the Aga. Tracy is good at a casserole which the Aga is brilliant at because you chuck everything in, leave it for a couple of hours and it comes out great.” and Jamie Oliver swears by it, much along the same lines as the Duchess of Cornwall who prefers preparing her meals using this appliance or nothing! You may recall young Flora Shedden from the 2015 series of the “Great British Bake Off?” She forgot to turn her oven on because, at home, “we have an Aga, and I’m so used to having it on all the time.”
While it might add great value to your culinary experience, a question might linger: how does it add a statement to your property and enhance its appeal? Let’s have a look.
In terms of the kitchen investments there is no item as versatile and elegant as an Aga range cooker that proves its value year after year. However, more than a cooking tool, an Aga is a symbol; it embodies heritage and embodies a rich artisanal tradition of slow and impeccable work. It is not just a value-added appliance; it is the heirloom of the kitchen.
So, what does the general public think? A survey by SellingUp/Populus revealed that 38% of respondents felt an Aga made a house more desirable. Interestingly, 40% of 18-24-year- olds agreed, showing that the Aga’s charm spans generations. While 49% were neutral, it’s clear that an Aga isn’t seen as a detriment. Its net desirability score of +25 places it on par with luxury additions like a home gym. So, if you’re considering investing in an Aga, it’s likely to be a delightful and valuable addition to your home. Even in interactive sites like mumsnet, many users shared their delightful experience of buying homes with pre-installed Agas. One such user states, “Once you have used an Aga (properly) you will never want a conventional oven ever again. I was a sceptic until I moved into a house with one and have never looked back.”
Moreover, an Aga cooker can significantly enhance the value and desirability of your property, even when reconditioned ones are purchased! According to Small Holdings for Sale
Estate agent Annabel Morbey of Smiths Gore notes that an Aga can add up to £10,000 to a property’s value, particularly if it’s a newer or larger model. This sentiment is echoed by the public, with a 2016 SellingUp survey finding that nearly 40% of respondents believe an Aga makes a property more attractive. Featured prominently in high-end property listings, such as those in Country Life Magazine, Agas are associated with properties ranging from £600,000 to £1.95 million. Additionally, a 3-bedroom cottage in North Ayrshire with an Aga is listed for £425,000, illustrating their market appeal. Sourcing a refurbished Aga can significantly reduce costs while still providing the substantial benefits of this iconic appliance. An Aga installed prior to moving in saves time and installation costs, which can be substantial (e.g up to £2000 for a new flue for gas or oil models). With a reconditioned Aga, you gain the advantage of adding value and convenience to your home without the high initial investment of a brand-new model.
Now, we do have answers to the investment value of an Aga but what about its running costs, right? Well, an Aga may evoke images of warmth and comfort, but does this come at a hefty price? Traditional models, designed to be left on continuously, could indeed lead to higher energy consumption. However, the modern Aga has undergone a significant evolution. Today’s models offer more energy-efficient options, including electric and gas versions including models equipped with features of Electrikit Classic and eControl Gas which can be turned on and off as needed.
Now, we do have answers to the investment value of an Aga but what about its running costs, right? Well, an Aga may evoke images of warmth and comfort, but does this come at a hefty price? Traditional models, designed to be left on continuously, could indeed lead to higher energy consumption. However, the modern Aga has undergone a significant evolution. Today’s models offer more energy-efficient options, including electric and gas versions including models equipped with features of Electrikit Classic and eControl Gas which can be turned on and off as needed.
Newer Agas can be programmed to heat up just in time for breakfast or dinner, offering practicality without breaking the bank. Moreover, there’s a diverse range of reconditioned Aga products to choose from, catering to various preferences and kitchen styles. An Aga Electric Cooker combines the classic design and warmth of an Aga with modern features, offering even heat distribution and precise temperature control through electricity. Similarly, the Gas Aga Cooker provides the same fantastic cooking experience using gas as the main energy source, ensuring consistent heat distribution. Worried about electricity bills? The Oil Aga Cooker offers a seamless cooking experience powered by oil, providing an alternative energy source to suit your needs.
With options tailored to fit different kitchen layouts and personal preferences, investing in an Aga cooker doesn’t just promise warmth and comfort but also efficiency and convenience.
The market for refurbished AGAs is bustling, thanks to their durability and timeless appeal. A well-maintained second-hand Aga can retain significant value, providing an affordable way to bring this iconic cooker into your home. Prices for second-hand Agas can vary widely, typically ranging from £1,000 to £5,000, depending on age, condition, and model.
At John Wray Range Cookers, fully reconditioned Aga are available with clear pricing. A 2-oven Deluxe Aga starts from £5,000, while a 4-oven Deluxe Aga starts from £6,600. Traditional Agas, starting from £6,920 for the 2 oven model and £8,570 for the 4 oven model, offer timeless cooking heritage. Consider modern convenience with the eControl System Series X, starting at £6,950 for a 2 oven Aga, or opt for the ElectricKit Classic conversion, starting at £6,800 for a 2 oven model. Enjoy the comfort and reliability of an Aga reconditioned by John Wray Range Cookers, completed with expert installation and integrated modules for added convenience.
Our reconditioned Agas come with the option of integrated modules, adding flexibility and convenience to your cooking experience. Plus, our expert fitters handle the installation, ensuring everything is perfect for you. Whether you opt for a gas, oil, or electric model, you’ll enjoy the comfort and reliability of an Aga reconditioned by John Wray Range Cookers
In conclusion, an Aga isn’t just a purchase; it’s a lifestyle choice, an affirmation of values, an embodiment of comfort, and a beacon of quality. So, if you’re pondering whether an Aga is worth the investment, rest assured, it’s not just a cooker it’s a legacy waiting to be cherished. With the potential to transform your house into a dream home, an Aga might just be the perfect ingredient. So, why not embrace the timeless charm of an Aga and make your home a cosy heaven that’s the envy of all?
