Whether you’re looking to put your house on the market soon, or just wanting to make sure your property is firmly future-proofed, it’s likely that you’ve spent many a thought on how to add value to your home. With influential factors as vast as the age of the property to your choice of living room furniture, it can be quite a tricky task indeed to pinpoint the best (and most realistic) ways to increase home value for you. Luckily, we’ve spent some time collating 14 tips and tricks to suit every budget so you can face the growing UK property market with confidence!
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Considerations
Before diving into any home improvement project, you’ll need to do your homework. Whilst not the most exciting part of the job, it’s important to understand the context of your project to be able to accurately evaluate the value it can add to your home. This includes several key considerations, each of which will guide you towards (or away) from projects depending on your specific circumstances. Below, we’ll cover each of them in turn.
Research, and then Research Some More
The UK housing market is always changing, largely because of the demands and desires of home buyers. As such, it is increasingly important to research the current state of house prices and to understand what it is that individuals are looking for in a home. A key example is the return of the dedicated dining space after a substantial period of loving open floor kitchen/dining plans. If you purchased your home more than a few years ago, it is likely the case that buyer wants and needs have changed, so you should be eager to stay up to date and adapt your value-adding journey accordingly!
This goes along with the more standard market research you’re likely used to doing, including:
- Average property valuations and asking prices in the local area
- Additional selling points external to the property, such as the neighbourhood or transport links
- Seasonal trends and the best times of year to advertise the property
- Estate agents and the cost of selling
- Any specific documentation or legal requirements of selling, such as an EPC certificate.
Be Realistic
Unfortunately, some value-adding projects may just not be compatible with your home. For instance, you won’t be able to convert a garage or basement if the property doesn’t have one in the first place. Of course, you could add a basement below your home, but would it be worth the complex excavation work, lengthy legal processes and very high cost? For the most part, adding value to your home should work with the property, rather than against it. And that’s without considering any time or budget restrictions!
Further, it’s important to bear in mind that nothing is guaranteed. Not all projects will give you the exact ROI (return on investment) that you were originally aiming for, not the least because of the competitive nature of the market. So, stay open-minded and flexible, and you’ll be well-positioned to ride the wave of property value.
Permissions, Safety and Repairs
Perhaps the most important consideration of them all, before adding anything to the property, you should ensure that what you currently have is legally up-to-scratch, safe and efficient for the buyers, and in adequate working order. If your foundations are crumbling or your electrical systems are faulty, it’s unlikely that a sparkling new bathroom will do much to attract buyers…
You should also acquire any planning permissions that may be needed for bigger projects, such as extensions. If you don’t, you risk being required to undo the work, which will leave a gaping hole in your pocket and no added value to your home.
Consult Local Professionals
Before adding to your home, it is advisable to consult with trusted and experienced professionals who can conduct a valuation of your home, advise specific improvements depending on the context of the property, and confirm that you meet any regulations.
Quick Wins on Viewing Day
If you’ve got viewings lined up soon or just want to make an instant impact, there are a few quick fixes that can help to add value to your home in just a single day:
- Rearrange your Furniture: An open, flowing layout that makes rooms feel bigger and refreshed is more inviting than a cramped and tired space. You’ll be surprised at how much a little reshuffle can do!
- Clean & Declutter: Removing clutter can give the illusion of more space, thereby allowing for the property to really shine. Plus, it’s a truth universally acknowledged in the real estate world that a depersonalised space encourages potential buyers to envision themselves in the property, potentially leading to quicker and more successful sales.
- Refresh Soft Furnishings: Swap out mismatched cushions, throws, rugs, and curtains for something a little more fresh, cohesive and stylish. Even a quick refining of the sofa cushions can make a difference.
- Fix the Little Things: We all have small repairs that we keep putting off. Now’s the time to get them sorted. Address dripping taps, repaint wooden furniture, replace lightbulbs: small details often have the biggest impact.
- Set the Scene: Finally, make the finishing touches. Arrange the dining table centrepiece, add a fresh vase of flowers, switch on the heating, let some air in, and so on.
14 Ways to Add Value to Your Home
We’ve covered considerations. We’ve covered quick fixes. But you might still be wondering exactly how can I add value to my home? Well, folks, it’s time for the star of the show.
We’ve categorised the following projects depending on their level of ‘dedication’, by which we mean the time, budget, and effort required. Feel free to navigate the list as you see fit, whether that’s choosing your dedication band and sticking to it or devouring all the ideas in one go. The point is that there’s something to enhance the value of every space.
Low Dedication
1. Restore Period Features
If you’re lucky enough to live in one of the 15% of homes in England built before 1900, then make sure to show it off! From traditional fireplaces to original floorboards and wooden beams, restoring such features can make your home stand out from the sea of new builds. That said, you don’t have to sacrifice charm simply because your home is newer than others. We reveal how exactly you can add all-important character to your new build in our dedicated guide.
It can be as simple as a lick of paint to draw the eye to picture rails to refinishing a wooden floor or opening up a fireplace depending on your budget.
2. Invest in Some New Furniture
High-quality and well-chosen furniture pieces can utterly transform a space, whether you’re going for modern, functional, rustic, or welcoming. On the whole though, buyers will be drawn to a home that appears well-maintained and thoughtfully designed.
You could opt for timeless and neutral wooden pieces or demonstrate the best use of the space with a multifunctional coffee table, for instance. Even a few key upgrades such as a stylish sofa or statement accessories can instantly elevate your home’s appeal with a more polished and high-value look. Not to mention the convenience for buyers if you decide to offer a fully furnished option.
3. Straighten up the Exterior
The outside of your home is the first impression potential buyers will get. So, what do you want it to be? Simply sweeping steps, removing dead leaves and washing windows can be essential. Paired with a fresh coat of exterior paint or an attractive lighting feature, investing in the exterior is a great place to start since it sets the tone for the rest of the space. In fact, a key study in the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics estimates that curb appeal alone accounts for up to 7% of the selling price – a proportion you don’t want to overlook.
4. Redecorate
Redecorating is one of the most effective ways to breathe new life into your home without the need for major renovations. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral or on-trend colour can make any room appeal to a wider range of tastes. Take it into the bathrooms by refreshing the tile grout, or into the kitchen with new cupboards and storage solutions. Finish with new wall art, updated light fixtures, or even small touches such as fancy soap or ornaments. The possibilities really are endless: but remember to keep it approachable and neutral enough for buyers.
5. Smarten Up with New Technology
In 2024, approximately 24.4% of UK households were estimated to have smart home devices. For a competitive property, make sure you’re one of them! Installing smart devices like thermostats, lighting or security systems can make your home more efficient and appealing to potential buyers. An added bonus: if you’re not looking to sell immediately, they can make your home more comfortable and cost efficient for the present too!
Medium Dedication
6. Consider Going Solar
Speaking of efficiency, why not consider adding solar panels? Depending on your specific geographical location, solar panels could add up to 6.8% to your home value. With the rise of eco-conscious purchasing, homeowners are becoming much more inclined towards homes that incorporate green features. Plus, it goes beyond mere optics, with solar panels being able to cut yearly energy costs by around 27% - now who wouldn’t want that?
7. Install Double (or Triple!) Glazing
Since we’re on an energy streak, let’s think about double glazing. Most homes in the UK (89%) will already have full double glazing installed, being a popular option since the 70’s. Nonetheless, if your property is one of the remaining 11% of (often older) homes still tackling the elements with single glazing, you might want to reconsider, especially if you’re looking to enter a market saturated with better energy efficiency, reduced heat loss, and soundproofing.
That said, if you’re already double glazed up, don’t get complacent! Triple glazing, which adds another pane of glass into the mix, promises even better heat retention and efficiency. With the BBC considering triple glazing as an up and coming UK standard, it’s a good idea to get ahead of the curve.
8. Add Space to Park
Let’s face it, parking is at a premium these days. If you have a front garden, paving over part of it to create an off-road parking spot can be well worth the effort. A well-designed and properly surfaced driveway also doubles as an added convenience for you in the meantime! And even more good news: you don’t have to sacrifice a welcoming exterior either – adding potted plants, climbing shrubs, or small feature trees can soften the space and bring back a touch of green.
9. Create an Open Plan
For a spacious, modern, and sociable feel, creating an open-plan layout is the way to go. Knocking down non-structural walls can improve flow and bring in more natural light, qualities that are highly attractive to potential buyers. But you don’t have to go all the way! If full remodels aren’t an option, widening doorways, using consistent flooring, or making the most of strategic furniture placement can all achieve a similar effect.
10. Get Planning Permission
Planning permission can be a lengthy and tedious process, and so it’s probably not surprising that offering buyers the option to avoid all the paperwork can come with quite a healthy reimbursement for you. So, even if you’re not looking to carry out a high-stakes, high-budget project yourself, it could be worth spending the £400 to add up to 30% of property value to your home.
High Dedication
11. Add an Extension
A well-designed and decorated conservatory or extension can be a game changer. Ultimately, the additional square footage will make your home more functional and appealing to buyers. The specific type of extension will change the value you can expect to see added, but it is likely to be in the ballpark of 5-25%. To maximise value, make sure to complement the design of your existing home’s interior and exterior.
12. Replace the Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, meaning that replacing or renovating it is one of the most effective ways to add value to your property. Choosing neutral colours, smart storage solutions, high-quality materials, and energy-efficient appliances will future-proof the space, doubling as a sought-after selling point.
13. Install a New Bathroom
As one of the most-used rooms in the home, buyers are often willing to pay a higher price when it comes to bathrooms. Installing a second, downstairs bathroom, or replacing the current space can add a touch of luxury and indulgence to an everyday routine, especially since a sleek and modern bathroom offers the sense of relaxation we all crave. So, investing in the bathroom can be one of the most profitable options when thinking about how to increase home value, adding around 5% - just make sure to prioritise functionality.
14. Convert Your Loft or Garage
A warm and inviting attic room or converted garage space is a quirky and on-trend addition to any home. If you are looking to add space without extending your home’s footprint, such conversions are a great option and bring serious value (we’re talking up to 20%). From home offices and playrooms to home gyms or hobby rooms, such converted spaces can unlock the hidden potential of the property for potential buyers.
Key Takeaways
So, there we have it: now you know how to add value to your home. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to enhance your current living space, there are plenty of methods – whatever your budget or level of commitment. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the key points of this post:
- Plan wisely by factoring in your budget, local market, and legal requirements, reaching out to professionals if needed.
- Address safety and functionality first through repairs.
- Easy wins, such as cleaning or new furnishings, count and can make a substantial difference to your home’s atmosphere and perceived value.
- Mid-range projects that improve functionality and save time or effort for buyers can offer a big return on investment, often rivalling that of major renovations.
- Major renovations can significantly boost home value, especially when completed to a high standard.
Whatever route you take, a well-maintained, thoughtfully updated home is always a winner. At Evelyn Lily, we have plenty more blog posts to help you make the most of your space, so why not check them out next? We’ll see you there - but for now, happy upgrading!
