The housing market continues to boom, and house prices keep rising. Now is the perfect time to add value to your home and ensure you get the best possible return when you decide to sell.
Making improvements today means you can capitalise on rising property prices and maximise your home’s worth when the time comes.
Our experts have compiled 10 of the best tips to help you add value to your home—whether you’re selling soon or planning for the future.
1. Hire a Builder or Designer to Add Value to Your Home
It’s hard to view your own home objectively. A builder or designer can provide a fresh, expert perspective and suggest changes that will add value to your home. They may recommend adjustments like a new colour scheme or better furniture placement. Builders often offer these consultations as a courtesy.
They’ll also check your home’s structure. Hidden issues like outdated electrical systems or chimney breasts could affect your selling price.
2. Add a Bedroom with a Loft Conversion
Creating more space is one of the best ways to add value to your home. Adding an extra bedroom, especially with an en-suite, can increase your home’s value by up to 15%.
There are several types of loft conversions:
Roof light conversions are affordable with minimal structural changes.
Mansard conversions involve replacing sloped sides with steeper walls and require planning permission.
Check with your local planning authority for guidance:
UK Planning Portal
3. Paint Your Home Inside and Out
A fresh coat of paint can add up to 5% to your home’s value. Choose neutral colours that appeal to a broader audience. Don’t forget the exterior—your home should stand out positively to buyers.
4. Complete External Repairs to Add Value
First impressions matter. Carrying out external repairs, like fixing guttering, repainting the front door, or adding a small porch, can add up to 10% to your home’s value.
According to the UK House Price Index, property values continue to rise, making these upgrades even more worthwhile.
5. Upgrade Your Kitchen to Boost Your Home’s Value
The kitchen is the heart of the home and plays a big role in buyers’ decisions. A full renovation can add 6-8% to your home’s value. But even small upgrades, like new worktops or handles, can make a difference.
Make sure the space is well-lit with under-cabinet lighting and clean grout between tiles. These changes add value to your home and appeal to potential buyers.
6. Create Open-Plan Spaces to Add Value to Your Home
Open-plan living spaces are highly desirable. Removing an internal wall between the kitchen and dining room can add 3-5% to your home’s value. Buyers often prefer functional space over more rooms.
Explore our guide on removing load-bearing walls for more on open-plan transformations.
7. Bathroom Upgrades to Increase Your Home’s Value
A modern bathroom can add 3-6% to your home’s value. Consider under-mount sinks, granite countertops, or updated lighting for a fresh look.
For quick improvements, ensure a shower is installed and refresh the grout.
8. Kerb and Garden Upgrades to Add Value
Outdoor space is valuable, especially in London. Tidy flower beds, mow the lawn, and consider adding decking or a paved area. Together with other exterior upgrades, these changes can add up to 10% to your home’s value.
9. Install Central Heating to Add Value
If your home lacks central heating, installing it could add significant value. While it may cost between £1,000 and £3,000, the return could exceed £5,000.
Learn more about energy-efficient heating solutions at:
Energy Saving Trust
10. Apply for Planning Permission to Increase Home Value
Even if you don’t intend to extend, having planning permission in place can add up to 10% to your home’s value. It provides certainty for buyers, making your property more attractive.
At S & M Solutions Ltd, we help homeowners across London unlock their property’s potential — from loft conversions and extensions to full home refurbishments.
Book a free consultation today and discover how our design and build expertise can add lasting value to your home
