For homeowners in prime locations such as London, property is not just a place to live—it is an investment. Whether you are preparing to sell or simply aiming to enhance long-term value, the right improvements can have a significant impact. Here's a streamlined guide to the best home improvements for maximising your property's worth, along with average costs and suitability.
Top Home Improvements That Offer Great ROI
1. Loft Conversion
- Value Increase: Up to 15%
- Average Cost: £22,000–£30,000
- Best For: Homes with unused attic space or where adding a bedroom or extra living space makes sense.
2. Kitchen Renovation
- Value Increase: Up to 15%
- Average Cost: £10,000–£45,000 (depending on how big the overhaul is)
- Best For: Homes with outdated kitchens or properties that could benefit from a more open, modern design. A stylish, functional kitchen is always in demand. Modernise with sleek designs, energy-efficient appliances, and plenty of natural light.
3. Off-Street Parking (London)
- Value Increase: £20,000–£50,000 in Central London
- Average Cost: From £3,000 (for basic paving and a dropped kerb)
- Best For: Homes in areas where parking is a challenge. If you are in central London or an area with limited parking, creating an off-street parking space can be a real game-changer.
4. Garage Conversion
- Value Increase: Up to 15%
- Average Cost: £6,000–£15,000
- Best For: If your garage is gathering dust, consider converting it into a home office, gym, or extra bedroom. In today’s world, where people need more flexible living spaces
5. Energy Efficiency Upgrades
- Value Increase: 5%–10%, plus savings on energy bills
- Average Cost: £3,000–£8,000
- Best For: Homes with old windows, poor insulation, or outdated heating systems. From installing double glazing to upgrading your boiler, these changes not only lower your bills but also increase your property’s appeal.
What You Should Consider Before Starting Your Renovation
While it is tempting to dive into a big project, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start:
- Overcapitalising: Do not overspend beyond what your local market can support
- Unexpected Costs: Unexpected costs are common; always add a 10-15% buffer to your renovation budget
- Disruption: Major works can cause a lot of disruption to your daily life. Consider timing your renovations to minimise the impact.
- Planning Permission: Always check before starting, as properties in many London boroughs are subject to strict regulations.
- Market Conditions: Timing is everything. Even the best renovations can be affected by market conditions, so make sure you are aware of trends in your area before you get started.
Final Thoughts
Smart, well-planned improvements can make a big difference to your property’s value. Whether it is adding extra space, improving energy efficiency, or simply updating tired interiors, a good renovation will pay off—both for you and for future buyers.
Just remember to set a realistic budget, plan ahead, and make sure your improvements match the expectations of the local market. If you are thinking of selling soon, we would be happy to advise on what will work best for your home.
