When you decide to sell your home, one of the first steps is to book a property valuation. But did you know that what your home looks like on the day of that valuation could directly influence the figure you’re given?
Whether you’re looking to make a strong impression on potential buyers or boost the valuation figure itself, some well-placed improvements can make all the difference. The good news? You don’t need a massive renovation budget to get results.
This guide explores five effective ways to add value to your home before selling in the UK, helping you prepare with confidence and potentially increase your sale price. If you’re getting ready to sell, now’s the time to roll up your sleeves and unlock your property’s full potential.
Why adding value before your valuation matters
A valuation isn’t just about location, floor space, and number of bedrooms. While those matter, estate agents also consider your home’s condition, presentation, and buyer appeal.
According to Rightmove’s latest House Price Index, well-presented homes can sell up to 26% faster than similar properties in poorer condition. Zoopla reports that buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes that are move-in ready, especially as the cost of materials and trades remains high.
That means first impressions count — and those start long before your first viewing. A well-prepared home can:
- Secure a higher valuation
- Attract more buyers
- Sell faster with fewer price reductions
Ready to find out how? Let’s dive into five practical steps to get your home ready to sell.
1. Boost kerb appeal instantly
It may sound simple, but the exterior of your home has a huge impact on how your property is perceived.
When a valuer or prospective buyer approaches the property, the front garden, path, door, and windows set the tone. If these areas look unkempt, it suggests to the viewer that other parts of the property may also have been neglected.
Here are quick wins to instantly increase kerb appeal:
- Mow the lawn and trim any overgrown hedges or borders
- Repaint or clean the front door – dark colours like navy or charcoal are timeless
- Jet-wash the driveway or paths to remove grime and weeds
- Add potted plants or hanging baskets for a pop of colour
- Clean windows and frames – sparkling glass makes a big impact
- Replace or polish hardware such as door handles, knockers, and house numbers
These low-cost updates can have a high impact and are key if you want to increase house value in the UK without breaking the bank.
2. Refresh kitchens and bathrooms on a budget
Kitchens and bathrooms are often the most influential rooms when it comes to a buyer’s decision. While a full refit might be out of budget, a mini makeover can go a long way in increasing your home’s value.
Simple upgrades to consider:
- Replace cupboard handles with modern alternatives (brushed brass or matte black are currently popular)
- Regrout tiles or apply tile paint for a cleaner, brighter look
- Replace taps or shower heads for a more up-to-date feel
- Add open shelving for a lifestyle-style aesthetic
- Paint cupboard doors using specialist furniture paint (e.g. greys, soft blues or creams)
- Style the room with matching accessories – soap dispensers, towels, planters
In a survey by the HomeOwners Alliance, 75% of buyers said the kitchen was a deciding factor in making an offer. So if you’re considering home improvements for selling, start here.
3. Declutter and depersonalise
When valuers or buyers walk through your home, they need to be able to visualise its potential. Clutter, personal items and bulky furniture can make a space feel smaller and more chaotic.
Start by removing anything that distracts from the home itself:
- Clear surfaces such as worktops, desks, windowsills
- Pack away personal photos and memorabilia
- Minimise toys, shoes, coats and other everyday clutter
- Reduce large furniture that blocks walkways or windows
- Organise storage spaces like wardrobes and kitchen cupboards (yes, buyers do peek!)
If necessary, invest in short-term storage or ask a friend to store a few items. Less is more when it comes to staging.
Decluttering not only helps you present the property more effectively but makes moving easier when the time comes. It’s a win-win.
4. Finish those outstanding DIY jobs
That broken door handle, squeaky floorboard, or leaky tap might seem minor – but to a valuer or buyer, it’s a red flag. These details suggest poor maintenance, even if the rest of the home is in good condition.
To truly get your home ready to sell, do a room-by-room walkthrough and make a snag list of small jobs:
- Touch up scuffed paintwork and skirting boards
- Fix door latches, handles, locks, or hinges
- Replace worn or damaged flooring if possible, or use rugs to disguise minor issues
- Fill and paint over wall cracks or nail holes
- Check that all lights work and bulbs are consistent in colour and brightness
- Fix dripping taps, wobbly curtain rails, loose tiles
If you can fix these yourself, it’s often just an afternoon’s work. If not, a local handyman service can usually sort everything in a single visit for a small fee.
Completing these jobs shows pride in ownership and makes your property look well-loved and low-maintenance.
5. Brighten and lighten every space
Light plays a powerful role in how people experience a home. Dark or shadowy rooms feel smaller and less welcoming. But with a few tweaks, even the dimmest space can feel lighter and more appealing.
Here’s how to brighten your home before your valuation:
- Open blinds and curtains fully for maximum daylight
- Clean all windows inside and out to maximise light flow
- Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and create a sense of space
- Paint dark walls in light neutrals (white, beige, soft grey) to freshen up tired spaces
- Replace heavy curtains with light voile panels or roller blinds
- Add lamps to corners or use daylight-style bulbs for warmth
According to Zoopla, homes that are light, airy, and neutral tend to receive more interest and better offers. And they photograph better — an important consideration for your marketing images.
Bonus tip: Know what not to spend on
While it’s tempting to go all-out with upgrades, not every improvement will pay off in your final sale price.
Here are a few things not to focus on before your valuation:
- Luxury features like underfloor heating, built-in sound systems, or smart home gadgets — they rarely add equivalent value
- Over-personalised decor (e.g. brightly coloured feature walls, niche tiles, bespoke murals)
- Extensions or conversions unless you have planning in place and the budget to finish before listing
Instead, focus on what most buyers actually want: a clean, well-maintained, move-in ready home.
If you’re unsure what will have the most impact in your area, a local Whitegates expert can offer honest, tailored advice.
Final thoughts: Maximise your valuation with smart preparation
You don’t need to spend thousands to add value to your home before selling in the UK. Most of the improvements we’ve covered in this guide can be done with a small budget, a few tools, and a weekend or two of effort.
A well-presented home gives a strong first impression, increases buyer appeal, and can directly influence your valuation figure. And in today’s competitive market, every edge counts.
Ready to find out what your home is worth?
Book a free, no-obligation valuation with your local Whitegates branch. Our experienced agents will give you practical advice, a realistic market valuation, and tips on how to present your home at its best.
