March 6, 2025
When selling your home, it’s natural to want to maximise its value. Renovations can be a great way to enhance your property’s appeal and attract higher offers, but not all improvements offer a good return on investment.
Understanding what to fix and what to leave can make a big difference in your final sale price.
Which renovations add the most value?
Certain upgrades are known to boost a home’s value and increase its appeal to potential buyers:
- Kitchen and bathroom updates – These are the most scrutinised areas of a home. Modernising them, even with minor upgrades like new cabinet handles, fresh grout, or updated taps, can make a big impact.
- Kerb appeal improvements – First impressions count. Fresh paint, a well-maintained garden, and a new front door can create an inviting exterior.
- Energy efficiency upgrades – Adding double glazing, upgrading insulation, or installing a more efficient boiler can attract buyers who are conscious of running costs.
- Adding extra living space – Converting a loft or garage into usable living space can add substantial value, provided the cost of conversion doesn’t exceed the potential return.
If you’re thinking of selling your house, ready our guide on how to prepare your home for a faster sale.
What not to fix when selling a house
While some renovations offer great returns, others can be costly without significantly increasing your sale price. Here’s what you may want to avoid:
- Extensive décor – While you may love bold wallpaper or statement carpets, buyers often prefer neutral tones. Instead of a full redesign, consider a fresh coat of neutral paint.
- Expensive upgrades – High-end kitchen appliances, marble floors, or bespoke features may not add value equivalent to their cost. Most buyers won’t pay extra for ultra-luxury finishes.
- Swimming pools – In the UK, pools are expensive to maintain and can put off some buyers due to upkeep costs.
- Partial room conversions – Converting a bedroom into a gym or office can limit your buyer pool. Buyers want flexibility, so consider staging rooms in a way that highlights their original purpose.
- Unnecessary structural changes – Knocking down walls or changing layouts can be expensive and might not align with a buyer’s vision for the space.
Making smart renovation choices
Before committing to any renovations, think about:
- The condition of comparable homes in your area – Will your home still be competitive without upgrades?
- The current property market – If homes are selling quickly, costly renovations may not be necessary.
- Buyer preferences – Work with a local estate agent, like Jacobs Steel, to understand what buyers in your area are looking for. Find out what you should consider when choosing an estate agent.
If you undertake major renovations, make sure you obtain the necessary planning permission and building control sign-off. Keeping all paperwork in order will help streamline the selling process, as buyers and solicitors will want to see proof that work has been carried out legally and to a high standard.
Ultimately, the key to a profitable sale is strategic investment. By focusing on high-impact, cost-effective improvements and avoiding unnecessary expenses, you can maximise your home’s value without overspending.
Need advice on selling your home? Contact Jacobs Steel today for expert guidance on getting the best price for your property. Contact us to book a valuation or get an instant online valuation now.
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