The start of a new year is the perfect time to set home improvement goals. Whether you’re planning a major home remodel or looking to tick off a few smaller updates, having a clear plan can make all the difference.
Not only can home improvements enhance your living space, but they can also boost your property’s value and save you money in the long run. Let’s dive into how you can plan your 2025 home improvements and get the most value from your efforts.
Home improvement projects to make your house feel like home
These enjoyable and manageable projects can bring a little joy to your home and make it even more inviting:
1. Add a splash of colour
Whether it’s painting a bold accent wall, revamping tired furniture with a fresh coat, or experimenting with colourful tiles, adding colour is a simple way to inject personality into your space.
If you don't have the time for a big painting project, contact our expert painters and decorators for a quote today.
2. Create a cosy reading nook
Transform a quiet corner with a comfy chair, a soft blanket, and some ambient lighting. Add a small bookshelf or floating shelves to complete the look.
It’s an easy project that adds a sense of comfort and charm.
3. Hang some artwork
Gallery walls or framed prints can add life to your home. Mix family photos, quirky prints, and your favourite artwork for a personal touch.
4. Upgrade your garden
Spruce up your outdoor area with fairy lights, potted plants, or a hammock for lazy summer days. If you’re feeling creative, try building your own herb garden or creating a mini outdoor bar.
5. Bring in the greenery
Houseplants can completely change the atmosphere of a room, making it feel fresh and vibrant. Start with easy-to-care-for plants like pothos, spider plants, or succulents if you’re new to plant parenting.
6. Make the most of your lighting
Switch to soft, warm-toned bulbs or add string lights for a cosy glow. You could even install dimmers to change the mood depending on the time of day or occasion. If you're not confident, hire an accredited electrician.
7. Add a statement piece
Find one thing that makes you smile, like a unique lamp, a bold rug, or a quirky piece of furniture, and make it the focal point of a room.
These fun, creative projects can help turn a house into a home, giving it warmth, personality, and that extra touch of you. Best of all, most of them can be done on a small budget and at your own pace.
Can home improvements add value to a property?
Absolutely. Many homeowners invest in renovation work to increase their property’s resale value. Well-chosen upgrades, like energy-efficient improvements or modernising key areas, can significantly increase appeal to future buyers.
However, it’s important to balance your home improvement project with your property’s ceiling price. If you spend too much on renovations, you might not see the return you expect.
If you’re unsure where to begin, JustFix can connect you with experienced contractors, including glaziers, roofers, and decorators, to guide you step by step. From creating new rooms to improving period features, professional advice can help ensure your investment pays off.
The best home improvement projects for home value
1. Start with the kitchen and bathroom
Kitchens and bathrooms are key areas that add the most value. Updating skirting boards, replacing outdated fixtures, or investing in modern appliances can make a big impact. For guidance on how to fix a leaking tap or how to unblock a shower drain, read our blogs.
If your bathroom is showing its age, consider a remodel with energy-efficient fittings, such as low-flow showerheads or underfloor heating. These updates improve resale value and help save money on bills.
Need help? JustFix’s network includes skilled plumbers and decorators to help create your dream kitchen or bathroom.
2. Improve heating and cooling systems
An outdated HVAC system can be a drain on both comfort and energy bills. Upgrading to energy-efficient options, like heat pumps or electric combi boilers, can significantly increase your home’s efficiency.
Adding features like underfloor heating or modern thermostats can enhance your home while keeping costs under control.
Simple fixes like bleeding and balancing your radiators can also improve your central heating system. Read our comprehensive blogs for a step-by-step guide on how to bleed your radiators or how to balance your radiators.
Need more assistance? JustFix’s heating and gas engineers can begin working on your project with minimal fuss.
3. Set energy-efficient home improvement goals
Energy-efficient improvements aren’t just about saving money; they can also add value to your house.
Swap out old appliances for energy-efficient ones or replace incandescent light bulbs with LED options.
For bigger savings, consider installing solar panels or upgrading to uPVC windows.
4. Invest in insulation and draught-proofing measures
Insulating your loft, walls, or even your skirting boards is a cost-effective way to keep your home cosy. Draught-proofing doors and windows is another quick win that can help you save on energy bills.
If your budget allows, replacing single-glazed windows with double-glazing can offer even more value.
Unsure of the costs involved? JustFix can provide advice and connect you with local professional glaziers or roofers to make your house more energy-efficient.
What's the best way to finance a home renovation project?
Financing a home renovation project can feel overwhelming, but there are plenty of options:
- Remortgaging: Many homeowners choose this route for major projects.
- Unsecured loans or credit cards: Ideal for smaller projects where a few hundred pounds can make a difference.
- Government grants: Schemes like the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) or local council initiatives can help with energy-efficient upgrades.
Research what’s available in your area to find the best option for your budget and goals.
Can you get grant money for home improvements?
Yes, the UK offers several grants to help with home improvement goals:
- Disabled Facilities Grant: Adapts homes for disabled residents, such as adding stairlifts or widening doors.
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Offers up to £5,000 to replace gas boilers with energy-efficient systems.
- Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS): Provides up to £15,000 for insulation in energy-inefficient homes.
Visit your local council’s website to learn more or apply.
When to call in a JustFix professional
While many home improvement projects can be tackled as DIY projects, others require professional expertise to ensure they’re done right.
JustFix makes it easy to find trusted plumbers, heating and gas engineers, carpenters, and other handypeople. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom, improving your home’s insulation, or giving your walls a fresh look, our network of vetted Fixers is ready to help.
With services backed by a 12-month workmanship guarantee, you can feel confident your home is in safe hands.
Keep an eye out for our subscription packages launching this year. They're perfect for keeping your home in top shape. With annual services tailored to your needs, it’s never been easier to maintain and improve your home.
