Add value to your home and reap the rewards

The latest research from Halifax has revealed that properties in Brighton saw an 11.4 per cent price increase during 2017, securing a place in its top ten house price growth chart.

For homeowners who want to reap the benefits of rising house prices by putting their property on the market, Michael Holmes, property expert for The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show – which will be at the NEC in Birmingham from March 22 to 25 – shares his top tips on how to add value to your home.

Adding value by changing the front door or the front of the house

A new front door in itself is unlikely to transform the value of a property – however, it is an important element in setting early impressions of the condition and quality of the whole house. If the existing door is either very run down or unsympathetic, the improvement to the appeal of the property can make a difference. Security is an important consideration too.

Adding value by vaulting the ceiling into the roof

A vaulted ceiling will add wow factor to a master bedroom or a living room. In itself it's hard to put a value on such as a feature as it adds volume rather than floor area – which is usually the surefire was to add value. However, giving a property wow factor can make all the difference in getting more interest in a property and this can drive up bids.

Adding value by doing something clever with storage – e.g. a bookcase staircase

Storage is one of those features that buyers tend to forget to look for and this is why volume housebuilders often forego storage space for more obvious features. However, clever storage ideas that make an attractive and standout feature can make the property stand out from the crowd – providing they are practical and functional

Adding value with a freestanding bath

For some people a freestanding bath is the epitome of luxury – a feature that add boutique hotel chic. If that's on a buyer's wishlist, then nothing else will do.

Adding value by doing underfloor heating

Running costs for underfloor heating tend to be between ten to 30 per cent cheaper than a radiator based system. The reason being, the emitter (the floor) has a larger surface area then the standard radiator, and so it requires the water to be heated to a lower temperature to achieve the same output. It’s also very comfortable and space efficient, making it very popular with self-builders and extenders. Installing underfloor heating can cost around £2,000 more than conventional radiators. However, many DIYers lay the piping themselves which helps to keep the cost down.