You’re standing in your kitchen, eyeing the outdated cabinets and dreaming of more space – but with moving costs soaring and stamp duty changes looming, is it smarter to renovate or simply move on?
Whether it’s a swanky open-plan new kitchen, an away-from-it-all loft conversion, or a dream garden makeover, it’s tempting to believe every upgrade boosts your property’s value – but the reality is less Kirsty and Phil, and more difficult decision-making.
Some improvements genuinely strengthen your home’s appeal, increase its market price, and make life more enjoyable while you’re living there. Others cost more than they return, no matter how beautiful the end result is.
With moving costs rising and rising stamp duties becoming more of an issue, buyers are becoming more selective. This means knowing which renovations offer real value. Whether you’re planning to settle in for the long term or maximise your home’s selling potential, making informed choices now can pay off later.
What today’s property market means for your next move
Before diving into which renovations add the most value, it’s worth stepping back to look at the bigger picture of today’s property market.
With buyers split between wanting modern, move‑in‑ready homes and those seeking character-filled fixer-uppers, knowing what your future buyer wants can help you choose upgrades that actually pay off.
So, before you commit to months of dust or start browsing Rightmove with actual intent, it helps to know which improvements genuinely increase your home’s appeal – and which simply drain your budget.
1. A practical kitchen for today
The kitchen is one of the first rooms buyers look at, and a stylish, functional update can make your whole home feel newer.
Why it adds value:
A fresh kitchen is a big selling point – especially when it’s energy‑efficient, well‑lit, and easy to maintain.
Simple wins: Think induction hobs, soft‑close storage (who doesn’t love the silent swoosh of a drawer gently closing?), boiling water taps, and lighting that makes Sunday cooking feel like a Masterchef moment.
2. Bathroom refresh or total renovation
From a powerful wake-me-up shower to a big bath to relax in at night, your bathroom plays a major role in a happy house – and updates give you an immediate pay-off.
Why it adds value:
If you’re planning to sell, buyers love a clean, modern bathroom. Even small improvements, like new tiles or fixtures, give the smallest space an instant boost.
Top upgrade: A walk‑in shower adds a premium look without requiring major structural changes.
3. Converting the loft
If you’re looking for one of the biggest returns on investment… just look up.
Why it adds value:
While it one of the bigger reno jobs, a loft conversion adds usable space and major value – whether that’s a bedroom or home office – without increasing the horizontal footprint of your home, while offering a strong alternative to moving.
Bathroom bonus: An attic ensuite can boost value even further.
Find out why you need specific renovation insurance for a loft conversion here.
4. Improving energy efficiency
From insulation to double glazing, energy‑saving upgrades remain high on the reno priority list.
Why it adds value:
Homes that are cheaper to run and more eco‑friendly attract more interest – and usually a higher price if you’re selling.
Smart upgrades: Insulation, energy‑efficient boilers, and modern windows don’t just tick green boxes – they all make for a more comfortable environment.
5. Enhancing kerb appeal
The outside aesthetic of your home sets the tone (and mood) before anyone even steps through the door.
Why it adds value:
A tidy exterior, well‑kept garden, and good lighting helps your property stand out from the rest of the road. And having a super-secure reinforced door plus a visible and working alarm system is good for potential buyers, and excellent for your home insurance if you’re staying put.
Think about: Exterior lighting, greenery, and landscaping that’s easy to maintain.
6. Creating open‑plan living
The trend for bright, flexible spaces that bring family and friends together isn’t going anywhere… so why not lean in to it and break through that fourth wall?
Why it adds value:
Removing walls (where safe to do so) makes rooms feel bigger and more contemporary – so ideal for entertaining. Ensuring you have that Building Regs certificate for sale is also essential and demonstrates the quality, commitment and legality of the renovation.
Top tip: Always check structural requirements before making changes, and make sure you have the correct renovation insurance arranged well ahead of lifting a sledgehammer. We also recommend consulting with Building Regs to stay on the right side of the law and to obtain a certificate for sale (this also avoids having to drop your price if you don’t have one).
7. Adding a dedicated home office
With hybrid and remote working now part of everyday life for millions of people, a workspace at home is not just an asset, it’s often a necessity.
Why it adds value:
Buyers appreciate having a private, comfortable space to work – whether it’s a converted spare room or a well‑insulated garden office.
Good to know: A clear, physical boundary between work and home helps with mental and emotional wellbeing too.
Ready to make smarter home‑improvement decisions?
Whether you’re renovating to fall back in love with your home or prepping it for a future move, protect every step with the right renovation insurance and SPF, part of Howden. Search Howden to find your nearest branch and speak to your local team.
Sources: Urban Big Data Centre, Heart Home Magazine, Renovation Plan
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This is a marketing blog by Howden.