Building value: 10 home improvements that could increase your home’s value
Home improvement shows are all the rage these days. They capture the imagination and make us dream of sprucing up, or completely transforming, our own properties. But what, exactly, are the best ways to add value to your home?
We run through 10 popular options below. From quick wins that shouldn’t break the bank to grand designs that will almost certainly cost a few grand, too.
1. Fix up what you’ve got
Believe it or not, adding value isn’t just about airy extensions and fabulous furnishings. It’s about making the most of what you’ve got as well.
So, you know that crack in the hallway that’s been staring you in the face for months? Patch it up pronto.
The same goes for broken roof tiles and water stains on the ceiling. Things like this can make a property feel run down and uncared for.
It might be worth replacing worn out carpets and removing unsightly limescale from your kitchen and bathrooms too. Making your home sparkle can be a great way to boost its value.
2. Redecorate and restore
Painting your home can be done quite cheaply, especially if you can colour match the paint. You’ll give your home a new lease of life and add some value at the same time. You could even do the job yourself to save money.
Neutral colours traditionally attract house hunters if you’re looking to sell. But there are alternatives.
For example, you could try creating a feature wall. This is a wall that’s painted or wallpapered a different tone from the rest of the room. Feature walls can liven up a bland space or even make attractive features like alcoves or fireplaces stand out.
You could even think about restoring period features if you’re lucky enough to have traditional cornices, beams, floorboards and bannisters. This can add some wow factor and make your home more desirable.
3. Remodel your floorplan
Homes with practical floorplans are often worth more. So, think about how your rooms flow. Can you walk from space to space easily?
If the answer’s no, think about talking to an architect or interior designer. They might suggest knocking down or moving walls.
For example, if you’re tired of walking from your kitchen to a separate dining room, you might want to create a large kitchen-diner. This could make your home more appealing and add to its value.
Unless you’re removing a supporting (or load-bearing) wall, changing your layout might be more affordable than you think. And there are cheaper alternatives you can do too. For example, simply shifting a doorway can improve your home’s flow.
All these things can transform your home and revolutionise how you live.
4. Improve your EPC
Homes with a good Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) tend to be worth more. In fact, Rightmove says improving your EPC rating from F to C could increase your home’s value by around 15% on average.
So, you could think about:
- upgrading your windows and doors to keep the heat in and drafts out
- install solar panels or a heat pump
- install low-energy lighting
- improve your loft, cavity wall, or flat roof insulation.
There are lots of other ways to improve your EPC too. Check out our 5 ways to make your home more energy efficient blog for more info.
5. Cook up a new kitchen
Kitchens are the heart of a home. So, one that’s old or rundown could put buyers off and prove a recipe for lower house prices.
Installing an impressive kitchen with good quality units, ample storage, and modern appliances, on the other hand, could add thousands to your home’s value.
The problem, of course, is the cost. New kitchens aren’t exactly cheap. That’s why renovating what you already have could be an option instead.
For example, repainting wooden units can really freshen things up. Opting for soft shades and natural hues is usually a safe choice.
Replacing the handles and installing new worktops can work wonders too. In fact, you can create a new modern flavour in just a few steps.
6. Build an extension
Did you know that estate agents sometimes use a ‘price per square foot’ method to estimate what homes are worth? The bigger the house, the higher its value.
But don’t extend on the spur of the moment. Think things through. The style should complement the rest of your home. And eating up too much garden could be a mistake if your outside space is tight.
So, try speaking to an architect before you start. There might be better options than an extension at the front or back. For example, many Victorian and Edwardian homes have a ‘side return’ you could develop instead. This is the strip of land that runs along the side of a terraced or semi-detached home.
Architects can also tell you whether you need planning permission or not. Don’t risk the wrath of the local council! They know a thing or two about the return on investment you might get, as well. Speaking of which, you could always talk to us about a home improvement loan or extra borrowing secured against your property to make the work possible.
7. Convert your loft or garage
The great thing about loft and garage conversions is you’ll use space you already have. So, they could work out cheaper than an extension.
What’s more, you might be able to do the work under permitted development laws without full planning permission. Although it’s always best to check (especially if your home is listed).
How much value could you add? Well, a loft conversion might add as much as 20% to your home’s price in some circumstances. But this depends on a lot of factors, including where you live, what type of property you have, and whether you’re putting in one bedroom, two bedrooms, and a bathroom.
But don’t forget that loft conversions will need a staircase leading up to them. So, this might mean sacrificing landing space, or even a bedroom, on the floor below.
And when it comes to garage conversions, remember you’ll be losing valuable parking space. Adding extra living areas is great, but being able to park near your front door is worth a lot too.
8. Add a quality conservatory
A good conservatory, or even an orangery, can be a lovely addition to a home. They add square footage, let in natural light, and bring a taste of the outdoors inside. They could increase your home’s value as well.
Having said that, conservatories do have some drawbacks. For example, they can sometimes feel too hot in summer and too cold in winter.
The quality of a conservatory is important too. Some property experts believe that eyesore conservatories could make your home worth less. They might increase your heating costs as well, so think about the cons as well as the pros.
9. Landscape your garden
A gorgeous garden can make even a humdrum home look and feel more desirable. So, trim your borders, clear those pathways, and cut back bushes in your backyard.
Landscaping your garden could boost your home’s value even more. But think carefully about the design before you spend thousands. Fussy gardens that need a lot of maintenance can be a thorn in your side.
The best gardens usually give you a great space for relaxing and entertaining. They’ll boast a pleasant patio, well-kept grass, with plants and flowers adding a splash of colour. Secure fencing, walls, and a gate are important too.
10. Scrub up your bathroom
Imagine a lovely new bathroom with a rain showerhead, luxury tiles, shiny taps, and a big freestanding bath. Now imagine it in your own home. Sound tempting?
Although renovating a bathroom isn’t cheap, history suggests that shiny new bathrooms make homes more appealing. But don’t worry if you don’t have the budget for a full makeover now. You can still add value, and make your bathroom feel fresh and hygienic, with a few simple improvements.
For starters, you can get rid of limescale, re-grout tiles, and decorate the walls. A new shower curtain can help too.
It just goes to show that you don’t need money on tap to boost your home’s value. Every little helps.
This content was accurate when published on 20/02/26.
If you’ve got grand designs to improve your home, check out the Home Improvements handbook in My Home Manager. You’ll find helpful guides to all kinds of projects from extensions and loft conversions to kitchen and bathroom upgrades. Thinking of selling afterwards? See if you can save by remortgaging with us.