Buying property is not just about acquiring a home to live in, it's also probably the biggest investment you'll make. Making the right improvements can dramatically increase a property's re-sale value, and shrewd homeowners are taking full advantage.

In the first of a series of guides, UpMyStreet gets you off the starting block with your plans to increase the value of your home.

 
Budget

Before you decide where to focus your attention, you need a realistic budget - and then you need to stick to it. This will dictate what improvements you make, and your potential profit. A bigger budget won't necessarily guarantee a greater return.

Labour and materials

Costs range significantly in price, so shop around for value for money. Be tactical about where you splurge and where you skimp - kitchen surfaces are high impact for example, whereas other features are less so. For good tradespeople, get recommendations from friends, and family.

Choosing your project

Some of the main money-makers when it comes to increasing the value of a property:

• Adding space - Increase your home's square footage for maximum resale value. This could be a loft extension, conservatory, extra bathroom or even just some clever space-saving devices.

• Energy efficiency - With the new Energy Perfomance Certificates in Home Information Packs (from June 2007), energy efficiency will have an increasing impact on the value of a home. A new boiler, home insulation or double glazing will score you a higher rating and make heating your home cheaper - always a plus point for buyers.

• Outward appearance - This is the first impression a potential buyer has of your home. Even minor changes can make a big difference - pay close attention to the roof, and front & back doors, and restore period features where you can.
  

• Garden and parking - Both green space and off road parking score highly with buyers. Maximise the space you've got using your common sense, or get expert advice.

 
Personality

Keeping your home neutral - with whitewashed walls and beige decor - is often recommended as the route to selling at a higher price. But one of the main factors in deciding to buy, is how a property feels to the buyer. The ideal is to strike a balance between something they can make their own, and a home that you have brought to life, restoring its features and infusing it with your style.

 
Know the market

Research your neighbourhood to zone in on the demographic most likely to be interested in your home. If you bear their preferences in mind - a new kitchen in a family home, an open-plan living area for younger couples etc. - you could reap the rewards. 

Avoid the pitfalls

Make sure you know what not to do