Although interest rates are gradually increasing, the cost of living and rising inflation continues to make life harder for a wide section of society. Particularly perplexing for variable mortgage holders based in the South East, the best value-adding home improvements have become a better prospect to make extra money versus the traditional route of waiting for funds to mature in a savings account – as it stands to reason that building a new extension or conservatory now will add value quicker than waiting for the same amount to build up in savings.

Well, a recent study has analysed live Rightmove listings and collaborated with a range of property experts to reveal the best value-adding home improvements. So, let’s look at some of these together.

5 ways to add value to homes in Essex, Suffolk, Hertfordshire & Surrey

1. Loft conversion vs extension

The ‘race for space’ is still as real as it’s ever been, so it’s hardly surprising that loft conversions and extensions both remain at the top for adding extra space. Able to add around 17.5% to the value of your home, as the modern-day ‘hub of the home’, kitchen extensions with contemporary aluminium bi-fold doors or panoramic sliding patio doors are a firm favourite for adding essential space and value throughout homes in Suffolk and the surrounding areas.

Opening up your roof space with a choice of illuminating roof lights, gable end windows, or dormer windows, loft extensions make great extra bedrooms and home offices. However, it’s important to bear in mind that the minimum height required for a loft conversion is 2.2m.

Our planning checklist for a new home extension (& why leave it to the experts)

2. Transform your home with new windows and doors

Improving internal and external aesthetics alike, replacing your windows and doors with brand new ones can add up to 8.8% to the value of your property. At SEH BAC we install an extensive range of window and door styles to accommodate your needs, including the nations favourite casement windows and robust composite doors.

3. Restore original features

If you’re lucky enough to own a charming period house, restoring original features like windows, doors, fireplaces, timber panels, cornices, and mouldings has the power to enhance its value by 7.5%. As well as beautiful bay windows and unique bespoke windows, our authentic heritage windows are designed to pass strict regulations for conservation areas, complete with charismatic finishing touches such as textured woodgrain foils and elegant monkey tail handles.

4. Build a new conservatory

Offering the best return on investment, modern conservatories (like ours!) can add at least 5% to the value of your home. Still as popular as ever, a new conservatory can deliver fantastic ROIs up to 108%.

Take a look at this modern conservatory replacement in Benfleet, Essex

5. Approved planning permission

As the housing market constantly evolves, getting approved planning permission can help you get a good price and a quick turnaround when the time comes to sell up. Typically increasing a home’s market worth by 2.5%, approved planning permission is fast becoming a simple way for savvy sellers to reach or get closer to their desired asking price.

Compare some of the best ways to add value to your home

Home improvement	Estimated percentage increase
Loft conversion/extension	+ 17.5%
New windows and doors	+ 8.8%
Restore original features	+ 7.5%
Conservatory	+ 5%
Approved planning permission	+ 2.5%

Extend your living space and bring the outside in with SEH BAC

No matter whether you’re planning a modern kitchen extension in Chelmsford or wish to modernise the thermal insulation of a period house in Ipswich, our team of experts are on hand to help and advise. With up to 35% off windows, doors and conservatories, PLUS pay only £99 deposit and pay nothing until 2023, visit your nearest SEHBAC showroom, get a price, or get in touch to find out more.