Hottest home improvements that add value to your home

When deciding to upgrade, many homeowners choose to move to a new house but with the expense and stress of moving home, increasing numbers are opting to improve and renovate their existing properties. However, home improvements can be costly and not all of them will increase the value of your home. We take a look at the most popular options for sprucing up your home and help you decide which ones are worth investing in. 

Cosmetic improvements 

• Replacing windows

One of the top home improvements you can make is to install double glazed uPVC windows: they not only add warmth and security and reduce noise from outside but also enhance the appearance of your home (read more here). uPVC windows are available in a range of colours and finishes to suit every taste: classic white is very popular and complements any style of architecture while grey adds a contemporary feel. Double glazing is seen as essential by many buyers as it is relatively quick to install and also comes as standard with new build homes, so this is an investment that will really add value to your property.

•  Going green with eco-friendly features

Adding energy efficient features such as solar panels and better insulation can increase the value of your home by up to 6%; naturally, they save you money on your energy bills while making your home a cosier and more comfortable place to live. If you have a conservatory, adding a new roof with the latest thermal insulation and an elegant roof lantern light will not only make it much warmer in winter but also cooler in summer, allowing you to use it all year round.

• Making a good first impression

Use your front door and hallway to create “kerb appeal”. Replace a draughty, old door with one of the latest composite or hardwood doors to create a secure and stylish entrance and add a splash of colour with pots of seasonal plants. While a dingy, neglected entrance can put off buyers before they have even toured your property, making a positive, welcoming first impression can add thousands to the value of your house and make it much easier to sell.

Structural improvements

Before thinking about the aesthetic appeal of your home, you should tackle any structural problems. These are likely to be more expensive to fix than cosmetic alterations so whether you are planning to sell up or have just decided to renovate your home, they should be at the top of your to-do list.

• Remedying structural problems

Identify any problems such as a leaking roof, damp patches, faulty wiring and structural cracks in walls and make fixing them a priority. A surveyor’s report will quickly show up problems such as a lack of a damp course, wall cracks caused by subsidence or even crumbling pointing. It also essential to tackle any plumbing or wiring issues before fitting a new kitchen or bathroom as these jobs are disruptive.

•  Removing an internal wall to create an open plan kitchen diner

Top of the list for many home buyers is an open plan kitchen diner: a generously proportioned room will make the house feel larger and more welcoming. Removing an interior wall to create a large, light-filled space where you can cook, eat and relax with family and friends can be achieved for as little as £4000. However, once you add improvements such as new worktops, lighting, doors and flooring, you have created a stunning space that can increase the value of your property by up to £28000.

• Refreshing the garden with decking and lighting

One of the quickest improvements you can make is to tidy up the back garden. After mowing, weeding and trimming any overgrown trees and shrubs, add decking to create an appealing outdoor space where you can enjoy breakfast in the sunshine or sit in the evening with a glass of wine. Tasteful lighting really transforms the space after dark, turning your garden into an extension of your home.

If you’re planning on improvements to get you further up the property ladder, our tips should hopefully help you to maximise your profits. Or have you decided to stay put and enhance your forever home, irrespective of what value you might be adding?