Home improvements that add the most value to a property

Simple changes can increase the price of your house, but which home improvements offer the best return on investment?

In this article, we break down the rough cost of some home improvements and offer you some guidance on where you could add the most value.

What home improvements add value to a house?

When making changes to increase the value of your house, start with the most basic improvements. Look for the easy wins first and work your way up.

1. Declutter your home

The first step in improving your home isn’t by adding anything to it. In fact, it’s the opposite. Start by taking stock of everything you own and sort your possessions into three piles: keep, donate, and discard.

Although decluttering may not directly increase the value of your home, when it comes to a viewing, people will be more likely to make an offer on a clean house than a messy one. It also makes it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves living in the property.

2. Fix the basics of your property

Squeaky floors, peeling paint, black mould, and dim lighting affect your house price. While some of these problems require specialist attention, others may just require a trip to the supermarket and some elbow grease.

Black mould is the most important thing to keep on top of. In severe cases, black mould can negatively affect the value of your property by up to 20%^. This is why we recommend that you keep it at bay and under control by keeping your property well ventilated, and especially in winter, ensuring your home is warm and dry.

3. Add kerb appeal to your property

First impressions matter, and a well-presented exterior can encourage more interest and create a positive mindset before a viewing even begins. Buyers often associate a well-maintained exterior with a well-maintained home overall. You should:

• Clean the front garden
• Trim the hedges
• Remove any weeds
• Jet wash the driveway

If you don’t have a front garden, hanging baskets with seasonal flowers can add colour and life to the front of your house.

Repaint (and if damaged, replace) any windows, frames and ledges. This can range from a thorough cleaning to more expensive alternatives, such as refitting single-pane windows with double glazing for energy efficiency.

Jet wash your driveway and pathways. Remove dirt and create edging to structure your outdoor space. If possible, remove any bins from view and install feature lighting to highlight architectural features.

If you need more advice on how to make your kerb appeal look its best, read this blog.

Thinking about renovating? Here’s what to consider

What renovation adds the most value?

While some home improvements can make a property more appealing, others can increase its market value.

Before committing to a renovation project, consider the following key factors:

1. The cost of home renovation

The first point to consider when renovating a property is the cost. How much will it set you back? Work out how much you are willing to spend and what you want to spend it on. Whether you are doing it for your enjoyment or to add value, there are different factors to consider.

2. The value added

How much will this increase your house price?

Added value should be the primary consideration when renovating your home for sale. Although many websites may advise that it can raise your house price as a percentage, it is important to factor in the real-terms added value.

3. Return of investment

Return on investment is how much value you add compared to the amount you spend.

The big projects - and what they’re really worth

A project may add substantial value to a home but still deliver a modest return once costs are taken into account. Before starting any major work, consider whether the likely uplift justifies the spend.

A loft conversion adds space and value. Recent Nationwide analysis found that extensions and loft conversions which create an additional bedroom can increase the value of a typical property by as much as 24%, depending on the property's size, type and location.*

Costs typically range from £30,000 to £70,000 depending on the type and specification**, so it's worth getting several quotes and factoring in professional fees and VAT before committing. The most popular option - a dormer conversion - tends to offer the best balance of cost and added value, particularly when it creates an extra bedroom and en-suite.

A loft conversion can be a great addition to your home’s value because it makes use of existing space without reducing the size of your garden. However, it is also one of the more expensive renovation projects, so careful budgeting is essential.

Garage conversions are another strong performer. Converting a garage into a habitable room - whether that's a bedroom, home office, or living space - could add up to 20% to your property's value.***

Conservatories and extensions can also add meaningful value, though the type of build matters. A traditional conservatory with a glass or polycarbonate roof could result in the space becoming too hot in summer and too cold in winter.

A modern extension with a solid roof and proper insulation is a more versatile and energy-efficient option - and can add around 10% to your home's value.^^ If you already have an older conservatory, converting it into a fully insulated room could be a smart move.

Kitchen renovations continue to be among the most commonly completed home improvements, reflecting the importance buyers place on this space.

While a complete redesign can be expensive, smaller upgrades often deliver strong results. Replacing cupboard doors, updating worktops, improving lighting and installing modern taps can significantly improve presentation without the cost of a full refurbishment.

Bathrooms are another area where buyers often look closely at condition and maintenance.

A tired bathroom can date an otherwise attractive property, while a fresh and modern suite can make a home feel move-in ready.

You don't always need a full replacement. Updating fixtures, refreshing tiling, replacing worn flooring and improving lighting can often produce a noticeable improvement at a lower cost.

How much value does a higher energy efficiency rating add to a home?

Energy performance is becoming an increasingly important factor for buyers. Homes with poor EPC ratings can take longer to sell and may attract lower offers – with homes rated A or B selling at a premium. It is worth remembering that improving your EPC rating from G to A could add up to 14% to your property's value.^*

To learn more about Energy Performance Certificates and what you can do to change yours, click here.

Final thoughts

If you're looking to increase the value of your home before selling, start with the improvements that offer the biggest impact for the lowest cost.

Decluttering, carrying out repairs, and improving kerb appeal can all help create a stronger first impression. If you're considering larger projects, focus on those that increase usable living space, improve functionality or enhance energy efficiency.

Most importantly, consider your local market and speak to an experienced estate agent like us before committing to major work. What adds value in one area may not deliver the same return in another.

Correct at time of publishing: 08/07/2026