Not all property improvements are equal when it comes to adding value. Here's what the data — and our experience on the ground — says about refurbishment ROI in 2026.
Whether you're a landlord upgrading between tenancies, a developer looking to maximise returns, or a homeowner preparing for sale, understanding which refurbishments give the best return on investment is critical. Here's our experience-based guide to the improvements that add the most value in the current North West property market.
Kitchen Refurbishment: High ROI
A dated kitchen is one of the biggest turnoffs for buyers and tenants alike. A well-specified kitchen renovation typically returns 150–200% of its cost in added property value, making it the single highest-ROI refurbishment in most cases. You don't need a luxury kitchen — a clean, functional, well-fitted kitchen with good worktops and decent appliances consistently outperforms expensive feature kitchens that buyers can't see themselves using day-to-day.
Key upgrades: Replace units and worktops, upgrade taps, install new flooring, and update lighting. A full kitchen fit-out from our team typically costs £6,000–£15,000 depending on specification.
Bathroom Renovation: High ROI
Similar story to kitchens. A tired, grimy bathroom kills buyer enthusiasm and tenant applications. A clean, modern bathroom — even a modestly specified one — adds significant appeal. En-suite additions to bedrooms can add genuine value, particularly in larger family homes.
Plastering and Decoration: Very High ROI (Relative to Cost)
Fresh plaster and a quality paint job are among the most cost-effective improvements you can make. Buyers and tenants instantly respond to clean, fresh walls — and the cost is relatively modest. If your property has tired, scuffed, or cracked plaster, this should always be on the refurbishment list.
New Windows and Doors: Medium-High ROI
UPVC double glazing adds energy efficiency, security, and kerb appeal. It's particularly valuable in older properties where single glazing or ageing double glazing is dragging down EPC ratings (increasingly important as minimum EPC requirements tighten).
Loft Conversion or Extension: High ROI (Long-Term)
Adding square footage through a loft conversion or single-storey extension delivers substantial value uplift but requires more capital and a longer investment horizon. In the North West, adding a usable bedroom through a loft conversion typically adds more to a property's value than the cost of the conversion.
Improvements with Lower ROI
Landscaping, smart home technology, and high-specification finishes tend to add less value than their cost suggests — though they can help a property sell faster. Swimming pools and outbuildings rarely recoup their build cost.
Talk to Our Team
OneSource handles complete property refurbishments across the North West. We can advise on which improvements will give you the best return for your specific property and budget. Contact us for a free consultation.
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