We are a nation of DIY enthusiasts, and according to the latest research from NAEA Propertymark, we have splashed out a total of £48bn doing up our homes over the last five years – an average of £8,000 each.
With growing house prices making it difficult for many to move up the ladder, 98% of homeowners have made improvements to their properties over the last five years. The most popular changes are redecorating (72%), adding new flooring (42%), landscaping the garden (40%), and a bathroom refresh (34%).
The cost of home improvements
7% of homeowners who have made improvements did so because the cost of moving was too high. However, home improvements don’t come cheap; a new kitchen costs a fixer upper £5,635 on average, installing a conservatory to open the living space costs £4,957 and building a garage comes with an average price tag of £4,526.
Home improvement motivation
55% of those who made home improvements did so to improve the look of their home and 23% thought doing up their property would be a good investment and add value. A further 19% bought a fixer upper on purpose, with the intention of making improvements, whereas 12% wanted to create more space.
However, the rising cost of living means not everyone can undertake the improvements they want to make immediately. 37% of UK homeowners want to redecorate in the future, and 27% hope to add a new kitchen. Some have more zealous aspirations in mind; four per cent want to build a home-gym and three per cent plan to install a swimming pool.
Mark Hayward, Chief Executive, NAEA Propertymark, says: “Homeowners are renovating and improving their properties for various reasons. Our needs are constantly changing and by investing money into our homes, we can really make the most of what we’ve got. Alternatively, improvements can add value and saleability to a home that’s going onto the market.
If you’re making improvements to add value to your home, it’s important to not over-personalise the décor so it appeals to future buyers; they need to be able to see themselves living in your home. If you’re looking to sell, a Propertymark Protected agent will be able to guide you through the process and help ensure your property ticks all the right boxes for potential buyers.”
10 top home improvement tips to increase the value of your home:
1. Redecorating and easy upgrades
Redecorating is the most popular home improvement; for a relatively low cost, you can give your home a lick of paint and do some general upkeep. Fresh paint in modern colours can go a long way to giving your home a new lease of life.
2. Makeover the kitchen
Potential buyers often put a lot of their focus on the look and feel of a kitchen, and it may be the first thing they look to replace if they’re not satisfied with what is already installed. Painting units or replacing cupboard handles or doors are a cost-effective way of giving your kitchen a noticeable refresh without spending too much money.
3. Adding or updating a bathroom
In the bathroom, replacing tiles and re-grouting, eliminating all lime scale and replacing taps are all options worth considering. Bathrooms need to be fresh and clean, so make sure the walls are a neutral shade, and ideally replace a shower curtain with a new one or a simple glass screen. Pinterest is a great platform to find ideas and inspiration.
4. Garden appeal
A tidy and well-designed garden is an attractive selling point for any property. Before any viewings, trim the borders, clear the pathways and cut back any overgrown trees or bushes.
5. Double glaze the windows
Double glazing is an essential for many house hunters; it will keep the home warm and keep the noise out, even if it’s near a main road.
6. Open space
Open living space is hugely popular, particularly for the kitchen and dining room. Combining the two into one large room creates a great sociable space and is perfect for families. However, it’s important to remember that many homeowners still enjoy the ‘front room philosophy’ that can be used for special occasions or for privacy by the adults.
7. Replace doors
The front of your home can say a lot about the rest of the house to viewers seeing it for the first time. By replacing or sprucing up the front door, you will give potential buyers a great first impression.
8. Converting the loft
A loft conversion is a more expensive improvement, yet it offers a great return on investment. Most lofts can be easily converted and expanding the house upwards offers homeowners an extra bedroom for growing families, or space for extra storage.
9. Create a driveway
In some areas of the country, the ability to park close to your front door comes at a huge premium and therefore, if you have the room to add off-street parking, you are sure to increase value.
10. Avoid over-personalisation
Of course, your house should be decorated to your taste, but if you’re considering selling and want it to appeal to a range of buyers then it’s important to avoid anything over-personal, such as bold or bright colours which might be a turn off.
