Recent statistics reveal almost half of homeowners in the UK embarked on home improvement projects in 2021, collectively spending £21 billion. From creating stylish environments through kitchen remodelling to expanding living spaces with loft conversions, home improvements are a popular endeavour that research has shown can increase the value of your home by up to 10%.
But is there a type of home renovation that is more popular than others?
The team at Uswitch remortgaging examined Google search data for a wide range of home improvements to find out which renovations were most sought after by homeowners.
Table 1: The most popular home improvements
| Rank | Renovation | Annual UK searches |
| 1. | Build a shed | 13,862,640 |
| 2. | Landscaping | 3,949,440 |
| 3. | Attic insulation | 1,327,872 |
| 4. | Loft conversion | 1,206,240 |
| 5. | Window replacement | 1,030,680 |
| 6 | Outdoor kitchen | 959,040 |
| 7. | Roof replacement | 928,080 |
| 8. | Bathroom remodel | 773,640 |
| 9. | Kitchen backsplash | 678,960 |
| 10. | Home extension | 629,520 |
The most popular home renovation for homeowners in the UK is building a shed, with a total of 13,862,640 related searches every year. This surge in interest can be attributed to the remarkable versatility that sheds offer homeowners, providing practical storage solutions and a cool retreat from the summer heat. Moreover, sheds can bring financial benefits, with garden office sheds estimated to increase home value by up to £12,000.
Landscaping ranks second with a total of 3,949,440 related searches every year. Landscaping not only provides visual appeal but also practical benefits like improved drainage, erosion prevention, sustainable gardens, and energy reduction through strategic tree planting. The fact that the top two most popular renovations are both related to garden improvement highlights the nation’s preference for enhancing their outdoor spaces.
In third is attic insulation with 1,327,872 annual searches. Attic insulation is a popular home renovation as homeowners recognise its impact on comfort, energy efficiency, and financial savings. In addition to its benefits for winter insulation, proper attic insulation can also prove helpful during the summer months by keeping the interior cooler, reducing the reliance on air conditioning, and contributing to energy savings.
Kellie Steed spoke on the benefits of renovating your home, highlighting the positive impact it can have on both financial and other aspects in life:
“When it comes to home renovations, it’s essential for homeowners to carefully plan and budget for their desired renovations, as costs can range from a few hundred pounds to thousands or more, and always have a contingency budget in case things don’t go to plan.
“Exploring options such as remortgaging becomes relevant when considering home improvements. Remortgaging allows homeowners to refinance their mortgage, which is mostly done to either secure a lower interest rate or release equity in their property to access additional funds. By doing so, homeowners can free up money to be used specifically for their desired home renovations, enabling them to enhance the value and appeal of their property.
These are some of the factors you should consider:
- Assess your financial situation: Start by evaluating your current mortgage terms, outstanding balance and current LTV (loan-to-value), and interest rate. Determine if remortgaging is a viable option for you based on your financial goals and circumstances.
- Research and compare lenders: Explore different lenders and their remortgaging options. Compare interest rates, fees, and terms to find the most suitable deal for your needs – a broker can help you to do this more efficiently
- Calculate the costs and benefits: Consider the overall cost of remortgaging, including any associated fees. Compare this with the benefits gained from accessing additional funds for home improvements. Ensure that the projected increase in property value justifies the costs involved.