Your home is your biggest asset, which is why making the right decisions is vital when it comes to home improvements. Whether you’re looking to sell up in the next few years or not, there are dozens of improvements you can make that will turn your home into a more functional, desirable space to be in. In this article, we’re going to discuss the top 9 innovative home improvements you can consider that are almost guaranteed to add value to your property.
1. Extend your kitchen or living area
Open plan living is what everyone raves about these days. If your kitchen and living areas are in small, enclosed spaces, consider knocking through the walls to create an open and airy space. You can section each ‘zone’ off cleverly with furniture or install bi-fold doors to create a cosier space whenever you need it. If your space is still relatively small and you have the funds to extend the bottom floor of your home – go for it! A larger square footage can add value to any property, especially if it is done with functionality and style in mind.
2. Make your property energy efficient
With the climate crisis and the soaring cost of living being issues that are unlikely to go away anytime soon, anyone looking to move house will be paying very close attention to the energy efficiency of the properties that they are viewing. Thinking ahead by installing energy-efficient appliances and even renewable energy sources will put your property at an advantage and could increase its value significantly. Some smaller home improvements that you could add to ensure energy efficiency include…
- Installing a thermostat
- Investing in solar panels
- Draught proofing doors and windows
- Replacing light fixtures with LEDs
- Looking into energy-efficient heating
You can refer to these additional resources for more information on creating a more efficient space:
3. Cellar conversion
Average cost: £1,000 – £2,200 per square metre[i]
A cellar conversion is one of the best ways to increase your property value without extending outwards or upwards. If you have a cellar that is just used for storage, take advantage of this extra space and get it converted! Tanking a cellar costs a fair bit, but once it’s done, you will have a room that can be used as an office, a gaming room, or even an extra bedroom. Here’s some advice on what to consider when turning your cellar into a livable space.
4. Loft conversion
Average cost: £21,000 – £44,000[ii]
A loft conversion is in the same vein as a cellar conversion but makes use of the space at the top of your house instead of underneath your house. Loft conversions are extremely valuable, turning what is usually a dark, damp recess of your home into a bright and airy room that can be utilised for storage or as an extra living space. The addition of Velux windows makes this investment even better, especially if you live somewhere with an abundance of beautiful views.
Polish off your loft conversion by switching out your loft ladder for a fully functioning staircase. You should also ensure that loft insulation is included as part and parcel to your new space.
5. Revamping your heating system
Average cost: £1,750 – £3,000[iii]
If you bought your home several years ago, your heating system is probably due for renewal. A new, efficient boiler and heating system can completely transform a property and make it so much more affordable to live in. If your property is short on space, you might even consider swapping out old, clunky radiators for a retrofitted electric underfloor heating system that will sit conveniently below the floorboards without taking up any room.
Opting for an efficient boiler will complete your heating set up nicely and ensure the house is nice and toasty in the colder months.
Read More: How Does Underfloor Heating Work?
6. Installing a new kitchen
Average cost: £5,250 – £28,400, depending on kitchen size[iv]
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and a tired, old kitchen might put off prospective buyers. Let’s face it, installing a whole new kitchen is a huge expense that some people might not want to be saddled with as soon as they purchase a property. If you’re struggling to sell, consider installing a new kitchen or at least updating elements of it.
Choose matching white goods and other appliances, and sand/paint existing cabinetry to keep costs down. You could even go as far as replacing cupboard handles and laying new flooring. If you’re planning on staying in the property for a while, replacing the kitchen in its entirety could be worthwhile.
7. Updating double glazing
Average cost: £100 – £1,230 for a standard uPVC casement window[v]
Double glazing lasts around 20 – 35 years[vi], so if your windows are reaching the end of that lifespan, it is worth getting them replaced. Leaving them to deteriorate further can lead to your windows becoming ‘shot’, or condensation breaching the seals and getting in-between the layers of the window. This can cause damp and mould to form around your windows, which is notoriously hard to get rid of and is harmful to your health.
8. Replacing insulation
Average cost: £200 – £2,750 for loft insulation[vii]
Insulation is the key to reducing energy bills across the autumn and winter. A house that is properly insulated will have a better value than a poorly insulated property. Ensure all loft insulation is kept neat and tidy, and explore your options for insulating your walls – which may or may not be possible depending on the age and structural qualities of the building. When replacing your insulation, make sure you choose a qualified installer and shop around to get the best quote in your area.
9. Updating electricity
Average cost: £7,500 – £12,500[viii]
If your electrics haven’t been updated since you moved in, or you know that they are more than 30 years old, you should explore having the system completely updated. This is vital to make sure your electrics meet modern standards to keep you safe and to ensure they are running as efficiently as possible. You can ask an electrician to give you advice on this. Whilst you’re at it, consider updating your outlets and light-switch covers to give your home a modern, polished look.
Enjoy your home
Remember, as well as increasing the value of your home, any improvements that you make should also increase the enjoyment of your property. Have you completed any renovations recently? Or are you planning to? Let us know in the comments!
Sources
[i] https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/cellar-conversion-cost/
[ii] https://householdquotes.co.uk/loft-conversion-cost/
[iii] https://householdquotes.co.uk/how-much-to-install-central-heating/
[iv] https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/new-kitchen-cost/
[v] https://www.everest.co.uk/double-glazing-windows/how-much-does-double-glazing-cost/
[vi] https://www.cloudy2clearwindows.co.uk/news/how-long-does-double-glazing-last/
[vii] https://householdquotes.co.uk/how-much-does-loft-insulation-cost/
[viii] https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/rewire-house-cost/