How to add value to your home – 5 top tips

The key to adding value to your home is making life easier for the potential buyer. Often the less work they have to do the more attractive the property. Check out our top tips to impress the buyer & maximise the value of your home.

1. Get a new kitchen and/or bathroom

Kitchens and bathrooms play a bigger part in the sale of your home than most rooms. A dining room that requires redecorating is a relatively easy job and a nice way for the new owner to put their stamp on the space, however if the bathroom needs updated it’s a much bigger, more expensive job. Kitchens are often seen as a focal point of the home – this space should be clean, inviting and practical.

2. Create extra space from existing space

Using the space you already have will cost less than an extension. You can up your number of bed & bathrooms with an en suite loft conversion or add an extra reception room through a garage conversion.

If your home has an out-of-date conservatory this “extra space” may in fact reduce the value of your home. Buyers will see the work required as a hassle and extra cost, often factoring this into the value of the offer they make. A conservatory conversion will transform this unusable space into a valuable extra room that can be used all year round. This could cost as little as £4,000 - £6,000 and add up to £15,000 to the value of your home. Get a conservatory roof replacement quote.

3. Kerb appeal

In a Pinterest perfect world first impressions count more than ever. According to Dulux, buyers are willing to pay up to 25% more for a freshly painted home with kerb appeal. Some simple and low-cost fixes can make a huge difference. Take care of the garden, clean the gutters and windows, paint your front door and decorate with details such as a nice knocker and letterbox.

4. Energy efficiency

Buyers are willing to pay extra for benefits that will save them money in the long run. A new energy efficient boiler is a great asset and worth highlighting to potential buyers. Single glazing, on the other hand, may put them off resulting in them negotiating a lower price.

When you put your house on the market you will need an energy performance certificate (an EPC), a standardised document which ranks properties in terms of energy efficiency. Along with energy efficient devices proper insulation will help to improve your EPC rating. Find out how spray foam insulation can make a difference.

5. Let in the light in

Bright, fresh homes sell for more than dark, dreary ones. Maximise the light in your home with skylights, patio doors, mirrors, neutral colours and spotlights. Renovating your reception rooms and kitchen into an open plan space will allow light to flow through your home.

Don’t forget to be aware of the ceiling price in your area and don’t overspend – no matter how many extra features you add there’s a limit on much you can realistically sell your home for. This might be ok if it makes your home more comfortable for you, but if you’re aim is to sell and make a profit try not to get carried away.