If you are searching for inspiration on how to add value to your home in London – then you have come to the right place. Properties in London are highly prized, and in a competitive market, it is important to give your home the edge.
Luckily, there are many things you can do to boost your properties value and enhance its kerb appeal.
When investing in your home, you want the value to outweigh the money you pour into it. Improvements and renovations cost money, but you might be surprised that even minor modifications and touch-ups can make a big difference. So, whatever your budget, we have lots of ideas to make your home stand out from the rest of the street.
The price of home improvements and renovations are dependent on many things and can vary greatly. However, you should be prepared to pay above the national average for most work if you live in the capital. So, for tips and ideas on how to add value to a London house – read on.
Adding value to your London home – consider your budget
We have broken down ways to add value to your London home based on three different budgets – this will give you a helpful guideline when it comes to maximising your properties potential and attracting buyers.
Up to £25,000 budget
If you want to add value to a property, it is understandable to focus on the interior. However, it is important not to neglect the external appearance altogether – after all, first impressions count. Thankfully, there is plenty you can do to spruce up your property on a budget of £25,000.
Replace your single glazed windows with double glazing
Most new homes are fitted with double glazing as standard, but if yours is not, then it might be worth getting your windows replaced.
Installing new windows not only improves the aesthetic appearance but can also make your home more energy-efficient, more secure and will reduce noise pollution.
Get a new front door
If your front door is tired and outdated, you can turn people off before they have even stepped inside. Plus, if you have had your front door for years, it might no longer be as secure as it once was.
Paint the exterior
A fresh coat of paint often has a bigger impact than you might think. There are paints specifically designed for exterior wear and tear – so why not apply some fresh staining on fence panels and gates whilst you are at it?
Make the most of your garden
Gardens come at a premium in urban cities like London, so it is worth keeping them looking their best. Remove weeds and keep all hedges and shrubs under control. Replace worn-out and damaged sheds with brand new ones.
Roof Repairs
Your roof is the most important structural element of your property, so it is crucial you keep it well maintained. Check the condition of your roof and carry out any necessary repairs – this could include new tiles and gutter replacement.
Add a conservatory
If you have enough external space, then a conservatory is an excellent way to extend your living quarters and let extra light in.
Replace your driveway
If you have your own parking space, then you are already at an advantage in a city like London. Yet, if your driveaway appears cracked and crumbled, then it won’t add much appeal.
Other ways to add value:
• Install an additional bathroom
• Update your central heating system or upgrade your boiler
• Insulate
Up to £50,000 budget
A budget of £50,000 will allow you to make more ambitious modifications to your London property. From conversions to extensions, there are plenty of options. When planning major renovation work, it is important to consult experts, who will be able to give you the advice you might need about things such as planning permission.
Below are some examples of how to maximise your properties value on this budget.
A Loft Conversion
Did you know that a loft conversion could increase your property’s value by 25%? A great example of how to add value to your home in London.
Loft conversions come in many shapes and sizes and the options available to you will depend on your property type. Victorian and Edwardian properties commonly found in London are generally larger than new builds, making L-shaped dormer conversions the loft style of choice.
Single-storey extension
Single-storey extensions are a popular way of adapting the layout of a home. You could use the extra space to extend your kitchen or create an extra entertaining area.
Before you begin, you will need to factor in the cost of an architect, VAT and any planning fees. Be aware that any rear extension work will impact the size of your garden, so make sure it is a sacrifice you are willing to make.
Build an Orangery
An orangery is a hybrid of a conservatory and extension, which combines glass with brickwork, and is a great way of adding character to an older London property. Just make sure you are not overbuilding, or you risk blocking out all the light.
Convert to open plan living
There is an upwards trend of open plan living happening in London, so it could be worth making the most of this if you want to add value. Open-plan homes often appear larger and typically let in more natural light. Of course, any talk of knocking down walls comes with structural implications, which is why it could prove costly.
£100,000+ budget
If you have a budget of £100,000, then you could implement several of the suggested renovations already mentioned to add value to your London home or make major structural alterations to your property.
Double-storey extension
Rather than adding another level to your single-storey extension, it could be more cost-effective in the long run to create a double-storey extension. A double-storey extension would allow you to renovate the space into multiple rooms, such as bedrooms or bathrooms – which could add a great deal of value to your property.
Install a cellar
The average cost to convert a cellar in London is £1400 per square metre – so a cellar conversion is not something to take lightly. A lot of older properties already have an existing cellar, which will cost far less to convert than needing to excavate the ground. It could involve major groundworks for water pipes, structural support, gas and electrical works and more. However, if done right, it could increase the value of your property by 30%.
Final thoughts on adding value to your home in London
We hope this article has given you some food for thought when it comes to adding value to your home in London. Remember LMB Group are on hand to help you with many aspects of property renovation.
From extensions to loft conversions – we are a name you can trust. Why not talk to one of our experts today about your property?
