Which improvements will add the most value to your home

Written by Thom Emerson

Want to add value to your home? Then here are a few ideas on how to go about it:

Create extra space

Whether you go out, up or down, creating extra space is one way to add value to your home. Consider building a loft conversion; or add a conservatory, to provide you with an additional, light filled room, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors from indoors, all year round. It’s been estimated that building a conservatory could increase the value of your home by as much as 15%, so it’s an investment worth making.

Upgrade your kitchen

Kitchens are the heart of a home and are often central to a sale too, so upgrade your kitchen in a pared down neutral style that will appeal to as many people as possible. Create a kitchen diner if possible, as these provide a practical, comfortable family space; and are particularly popular these days.

Light fantastic

If your kitchen is not sufficiently large enough to create a dining space, consider incorporating a next door room, an existing extension or a conservatory to achieve the right effect. If you have a ground floor extension that lacks light and style, add a lantern roof to enhance the room.

Also, heighten natural light levels by incorporating sliding patio doors, so your kitchen diner is a light, bright room the whole family will enjoy. You’ll all be able to step straight out into the garden too, which is perfect for grown-ups and children alike.

Bathroom marvels

Next stop, give thought to the look and finish of your existing bathroom; and whether an upgrade or replacement is in order. Also, consider the potential to install an additional bathroom or en-suite in your home. These can add value; however, don’t install an en-suite if it will turn a double room into a single – as you risk reducing the value of your home.

Improved energy efficiency

Another factor buyers consider when viewing homes is their energy efficiency, as all sales details now include an energy performance certificate – so one step you can take to add value to your home is to ensure it attains a high energy rating. So install more insulation and double glazing, to cut down the heat your home is losing and hence, make it more energy efficient. Also consider adding other eco-friendly features, such as a solar water heater for example.

Kerb appeal is crucial

First impressions count, so step out in the street and look at your home as if you are doing so for the first time. See what your potential buyers will see and think about how it could be improved. Does your exterior wood work need a lick of paint; does the path need weeding or do your windows or front door need replacing? Will viewers see a rotten window frame or dirty panes of glass, if so; see to it as soon as you can. It’s true you never get another chance to make a first impression, so help your home to make the best impression possible.

So there you have a few ideas on how to add value to your home – now it’s time to get started.