It is a dilemma many home owners face when tiring or outgrowing their property – should I move or improve my home?
But with the rise in energy bills and the cost of living, many of us are finding moving house to a bigger property is not an option.
But adding value to your home and upgrading it is something that many home owners in the UK are considering.
According to a recent poll, 43 per cent of home owners are thinking about making home improvements in the next two years (polled July 2023).
So, in order to make sure your money is invested wisely in order to add value to your home, we have researched and put together some of the best improvements you can make in order to upgrade and enhance your home, and make it worth more money as well.
10 improvements that can add value to your home
Kitchen remodel: The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home. A well-designed and modern kitchen can greatly appeal to buyers. Consider upgrading countertops, cabinets, and appliances to create a more functional and aesthetically pleasing space.
Bathroom upgrades: Bathrooms are also key selling points. Renovate outdated bathrooms, add new fixtures, improve lighting, and consider adding features like double sinks or a walk-in shower to boost your home's value.
Energy-efficient improvements: Energy-efficient homes are increasingly sought after by buyers. Install LED lighting, programmable thermostats, and consider investing in solar panels to reduce energy costs and attract eco-conscious buyers. Double glazing can help lower bills, as well as your carbon footprint, so install energy-efficient A-rated windows, which will reap benefits with keeping your home warm, cosy, and secure.
Kerb appeal: First impressions matter. Enhance your home's curb appeal by maintaining the landscaping, repainting the exterior, upgrading the front door with a smart energy-efficient and secure UPVC or composite front door; and add outdoor lighting. A welcoming exterior will entice potential buyers.
Open floor plan: If your home has a closed-off layout, consider removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open and spacious floor plan. Open-concept homes are popular among modern buyers.
Create more space: With the rise of remote work, having a dedicated home office has become essential for many buyers. Adding a single-storey extension can create a dedicated WFH space, add bifold or sliding patio doors and roof lights to create a light-filled room that is a pleasure to work from.
Garage conversions: If you have an unused garage, consider converting it into a functional living space, such as a family room, game room, or guest suite. This can significantly increase the usable square footage of your home. If you have a flat roof, add aluminium bifold or sliding doors, a Skypod roof or roof lights for a room with the ‘wow’ factor.
Smart home technology: Incorporating smart home features like a smart thermostat, security system, or smart lighting can make your home more appealing to tech-savvy buyers.
Extra storage: Ample storage space is always a plus. Add built-in wardrobes, shelves, or storage units to keep the home organised and clutter-free.
Fresh paint: A fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Choose neutral colours that appeal to a broader audience and create a clean, well-maintained appearance.
Kingston Windows and Doors Sales Manager Tim Hotte has some words of advice for home owners who are planning to make major investments.
He said: “When planning your home improvements, choose a company that offers warranties and has experienced staff to help and advise you make the right decision.
“With lots of choice around windows, doors and roofs, it can be daunting. By talking to our sales team, we can make suggestions on styles and materials which can make a huge difference to the budget and overall design.
“Our sales staff have been in the home improvements industry for decades and will be happy to help.”