If you’re looking for practical ways to increase the value of your property, you’re far from alone.

With the UK housing market facing sluggish growth in many regions, homeowners are increasingly turning to smart upgrades that boost buyer appeal and maximise sale prices.

The good news? Adding value doesn’t always require a major renovation.

Even minor improvements, when chosen carefully, can deliver a noticeable lift in market value.

Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to future-proof your investment, here are 12 trusted ways to add value to your home in 2025.

Table of Contents

1. Boost Kerb Appeal

First impressions can make or break a buyer’s perception of your home. Improving kerb appeal remains one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to increase property value.

Ways to enhance kerb appeal:

Refresh the front door with new paint or updated ironmongery
Trim hedges and shrubs to create a tidy frontage
Add seasonal plants or low-maintenance greenery
Clean driveways, fascias and pathways
Replace or repair tired fencing

A well-maintained exterior signals that the rest of the home has been looked after too — an instant confidence boost for buyers.

2. Modernise the Kitchen

The kitchen carries a huge influence when buyers decide on property value.

While a full renovation isn’t always necessary, well-chosen updates can deliver a substantial return.

Consider:

New cabinet doors or handles
Updated lighting
Modern worktops
A fresh colour scheme
Energy-efficient, A-rated appliances

A clean, contemporary kitchen stands out immediately and can transform how the entire property is perceived.

3. Refresh or Renovate the Bathroom

The bathroom is another make-or-break space. An outdated or poorly maintained bathroom often leads to lower offers.

Simple upgrades include:

Regrouting tiles
Installing a modern mirror or vanity
Replacing taps and fixtures
Updating flooring
Improving ventilation

Even a modest refresh can add a sense of quality and cleanliness that buyers value highly.

4. Improve Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient homes are increasingly sought after due to rising energy costs and environmental awareness.

Improving your EPC rating can directly increase your property’s market value.

You may want to consider:

Double or triple glazing
LED lighting throughout
Improved insulation (loft, cavity walls)
Modern heating controls
Solar panels, where suitable

Highlighting annual energy-saving potential during viewings can also influence buyer decisions.

5. Add Extra Usable Space

Increasing square footage is one of the most reliable ways to add value.

Potential upgrades include:

Loft conversions
Garage conversions
Conservatories or garden rooms
Open-plan layouts
Decking or patio areas

Before carrying out structural work, check local planning rules via the UK Planning Portal.

Quality conversions often add tens of thousands to a property’s value.

6. Update Flooring

Flooring has an immediate visual impact.

Worn carpets or damaged laminate can drag down the look of an otherwise attractive home.

Popular choices include:

Hardwood or engineered wood
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT)
High-quality carpet in bedrooms
Durable tile in kitchens and bathrooms

Fresh flooring modernises the property’s overall feel and appeals to buyers who want a move-in-ready home.

7. Upgrade Key Systems

A home with outdated plumbing, electrics or heating systems can raise red flags for buyers. Modernising these core systems is both a safety upgrade and a value-adding investment.

Consider updating:

Consumer unit (fuse box)
Boiler and radiators
Pipework
Water pressure systems

Presenting recent certificates or invoices during the sale process can also instil confidence.

8. Repaint and Redecorate

One of the simplest ways to increase property value is through a fresh coat of paint.

Neutral colours, such as soft greys, off-whites and gentle beige, appeal to the broadest audience.

Completing this step can:

Make rooms feel larger
Brighten dark spaces
Cover scuffs and wear
Create a clean, modern backdrop

Thoughtful décor additions, such as updated curtains or new light fittings, can further enhance the effect.

9. Integrate Smart Home Technology

Smart tech is increasingly expected in modern homes. When used correctly, it can make your home feel more premium.

Examples include:

Smart thermostats
Wireless security systems
Smart lighting
Video doorbells

While these upgrades won’t transform your property’s value alone, they help set your home apart from similar listings.

10. Declutter and Stage Your Home

Presentation matters. A clutter-free home not only looks more spacious but can increase perceived value significantly.

Research suggests that cluttered homes can reduce a property’s value by nearly £9,300 on average.

Decluttering tips:

Remove excess personal items
Streamline surfaces
Store bulky furniture
Organise cupboards and wardrobes

Home staging encourages buyers to imagine themselves living in the space — a powerful influence during viewings.

11. Resolve Any Damp Issues

Damp is one of the biggest deterrents for buyers. Depending on the severity, damp can reduce property value by 10% to more than 50%.

It’s worth addressing damp before listing your property. Common remedies include:

Improving ventilation
Repairing gutters or roofing
Installing damp-proof courses
Using dehumidifiers
Treating mould properly

Fixing the issue now nearly always pays off at sale time.

12. Avoid Smoking Indoors

Cigarette smoke can cling to walls, ceilings, carpets and upholstery, leaving a stubborn odour that’s difficult to mask.

Homes with noticeable smoke damage often receive significantly lower offers.

If you smoke, do so outdoors and ensure the property is well ventilated.

Cleaning, repainting and replacing soft furnishings may also be necessary before putting the home on the market.

Need Help Moving House?

Once you’ve boosted your home’s value and secured a buyer, you’ll need a reliable removals company to help you take the next step.

Curtiss Moving & Storage Portsmouth provides trusted, professional removals across Hampshire, offering:

A fast 24-hour online quote service
Local, national and international moves
Secure storage options
Members of the BAR (British Association of Removers)
Friendly, experienced teams

Get your free moving quote today or call 023 9298 5830 for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What adds the most value to a house in the UK?

Loft conversions, modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, improved energy efficiency and increased living space typically offer the biggest value boosts.

Does a new kitchen increase property value?

Yes — a well-presented, modern kitchen is highly appealing to buyers and can add between 5% and 15% to your home’s value, depending on the finish.

Will solar panels increase my property value?

In many cases, yes. Homes with good EPC ratings and reduced energy bills are increasingly attractive to buyers.

Do I need planning permission for a home extension?

Some extensions fall under permitted development, but larger additions require planning approval. Always check the Planning Portal or speak with your local authority.

Is decorating enough to add value?

Fresh paint and clean presentation won’t add huge value on their own, but they make your home more appealing and can help secure higher offers.