Changes you make to your home, whether large or small, can have a big effect on the price you achieve when it comes time to sell, says Tim James. We take a look at the value hot spots in your home
If you've got money to invest in home improvements you'll want to spend it wisely. The improvements you make to your home will depend on what's already there, but knowing which changes hold value and desirability will help you sift out the maybes from the musts.
Location, location, location
The site of your home is the first penny in the pot of value. It isn't just about the neighbourhood you live in, but also the region or area.
Kitchen
Show favouritism to your kitchen. Improving this area will not only add value to your home, it will make it easier to sell. If you're planning a complete makeover then keep it simple – elaborate or out of place redesigns can kill a sale.
Bathroom
We've all got one, but those with two are worth more. A second bathroom in a family home can add as much as nine per cent to the value of a property.
Bedroom
Although the number of bedrooms adds value, the real worth is in adding floor space. Enlarging the floor area by approximately 100 sq ft to create a bedroom can increase value by around eight per cent. Remember, if you increase the number of bedrooms in a property, you may need a second bathroom.
Conservatory
A conservatory can add value to a house if it blends with the style of the property and doesn't look out of place. Remember that planning permission is required for areas over 270 sq ft.
Central heating
Central heating is money well spent. Slap on an extra seven to 15 per cent in value for a complete and well-maintained system.
Loft conversion
Loft conversions should be a final resort in the fight for space as they can cost as much as the value they add to a property. Remember that planning permission is required.
Garage
A single garage will add more than five per cent in value to your home, although this could be more in city areas such as London where land is limited.
Gardens
An enhanced recreational area can add value, but resist the temptation to be ambitious. Many buyers will be shy of any extra maintenance involved.
Pool
Although a pool has connotations of luxury and ease, it is in fact a maximum deterrent to potential home buyers with small children. Pools and other large water features are a maybe, not a must, for those with cash to spare.