Property renovations are usually carried out for one of two reasons.
Some clients want to enhance their lifestyle, creating an updated or modernised home that works for them and their family, or for rental.
Others set out to increase the property’s value for an immediate sale, or in the future, sometimes as a pension fund.
In the case of the former, the priority should be choosing the layout, functionality and aesthetic that works for the owner or their guests, with any increase in value being a welcome bonus. For example, if the views are better upstairs, then we will chat about an upstairs lounge or perhaps a bath where you can enjoy them while you soak.
When we’re adding value, it’s much more important to focus on a design and finish that will appeal to the widest range of the target buyers, striking a balance between style, quality and budget. There’s no point using materials or design that don’t add value – or worse, put people off.
Here are some tips for getting the best value from your renovation project:
Why kitchens sell houses
Kitchens are often the heart of the home – a place to gather, entertain, and socialise – making them a major emotional draw for buyers.
They’re also the most expensive room to remodel. Low-quality appliances, materials, or finishes can make buyers question refurbishment costs and the condition of the rest of the property.
Luxury buyers expect high-end appliances, bespoke cabinetry, and quartz or marble worktops, plus extras like smart technology, wine coolers, or integrated coffee machines. Mid-range buyers value durable materials and quality white goods.
Lighting, colour choice, and energy-efficient features – such as low-flow taps, LED lighting, and induction hobs – are simple, affordable ways to impress and appeal to all markets
Equally, if you’re renovating to stay, everything needs to fit how you live in the home – and a bi-fold door might be what you want over four ovens and a marble counter.
How open plan opens up your home and adds value
Combining a renovation with an extension can significantly boost a home’s value. Open-plan family spaces are increasingly popular, replacing separate rooms with larger, more versatile living areas. Natural light and views really get better with open plan.
Extensions also make a home more flexible, allowing it to better suit modern lifestyles. When planning, consider the existing footprint, available land, and views to maximise both functionality and appeal. Also, how rooms can be re-utilised; for example, could a child’s old bedroom become a library, sewing room or music room once they’ve left home?
This client’s old conservatory was too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter, so they didn’t really want to use it. We replaced it with a stunning extension providing open plan space, and a bedroom suite.
How renovating lofts and basements increases appeal
There is value in every square metre of a property, so repurposing space you already have is a great way to improve functionality or even add some wow-factor whether for yourself or a future buyer.
Going up into the loft or down into the basement can create much-needed practical rooms such as:
For a more luxurious touch aimed at the higher-end market, consider turning them into:
As basements and lofts are often used as storage, factor alternatives into your renovation – this client added a basement to their barn conversion, incorporating a fantastic games room, bar and cinema but also included a plant room.
How bathrooms attract buyers
As with kitchens, bathrooms are one of the more costly rooms in a house, so buyers and homeowners alike, will look for quality finishes, fixtures and fittings. Many features can create a luxury feel without a premium price tag, such as:
Relocating a bathroom can seem a big expense but it’s worth the layout revision for the increased useability and appeal to buyers – moving it nearer a bedroom or as an en-suite is far preferable to one that’s accessed downstairs through a kitchen, for example.
In many cases, it can be worth losing a small bedroom to better locate a bathroom.
Most homes benefit from a downstairs WC that’s particularly useful for guests and small children. Even if space is tight, the smallest nook under the stairs can be all you need to squeeze in a loo and basin to create this little bit of first world convenience.
We designed and built this stunning curved bathroom with staircase leading to main suite in this oast house extension.
The layout change involved losing a ground floor bedroom in favour of this unique two-storey main suite, with the bathroom on the ground floor with the curved staircase leading to the bedroom above.
Why energy efficiency and sustainability are important in renovations
Energy-efficient features are high on all buyers’ wish lists. From insulation, triple glazing, and solar panels to modern heat pumps, these upgrades not only reduce a home’s carbon footprint but also deliver long-term savings that outweigh the initial investment.
Smart home systems for lighting, heating, security, and entertainment add another layer of appeal, offering convenience for homeowners and a strong selling point for eco-conscious buyers.
We fitted ground source heat pumps in this farmhouse, oast and granary conversion without comprising the properties’ traditional features and character.
How to use a garden to add rooms, space and value
Expand your renovation to include any outbuildings on your property. Everything from a shed to a neglected garden room or disused barn can be reinvigorated or repurposed creating:
Improve or move?
Over time, we can often become blind to the potential in our own homes and dream of moving to a home with the perfect space and layout.
However, moving expenses such as stamp duty, estate agent and removal fees, not to mention the price of the new home itself, can far outweigh the cost of improving your existing home.
Speak to us about ideas and designs for remodelling your home that you might not have considered possible, helping to create exactly what you need in the property you already have.
And finally…common pitfalls to avoid when renovating
We can help you realise the value in a development to sell or create a dream home for you to enjoy yourself.
Find out more here or get in touch to discuss your project ideas.
You can view some of the renovation and extension projects we’ve worked on here.
For an informal conversation about your project please call us on 01233 861177 or email us using the form. Your data is not used for marketing – only to contact you.
If you have documents - previous designs, plans or photos, please send them to us via email: enquiries@vernacularhomes.com
