Did you know that buyers are willing to pay a premium of 10-30% for lavish properties? With a few selected minor and major improvements, you can gain a competitive edge in the real estate market. The main question here is, ‘How much do home improvements increase value?’
Whether it’s remodelling a kitchen, a bathroom or an outdoor space, home improvements can bring new life to a property. Read on to find out more about the best improvements that boost house value.
- How Much Do Home Improvements Increase Value in the UAE?
- Best Home Improvement Ideas that Increase Value
- Common Mistakes to Avoid During Home Improvements
- FAQs
How Much Do Home Improvements Increase Value in the UAE?
Planning to sell or lease your home in the UAE? Consider investing in minor and major home improvements to increase its value. According to experts, home improvement costs can range from AED 70,000 to AED 400,000, depending on the scope of the project.
While the cost may appear higher, the benefits certainly outweigh it. Home improvements in the UAE can increase ROI by up to 10-30%. Where a fresh coat of paint improves aesthetics, smart devices add to comfort.
But what are the best improvement projects to increase property value in Dubai and other Emirates? Here are all the details:
Best Home Improvement Ideas that Increase Value
How much do home improvements increase value in the UAE? This is a common question among most homeowners, and there isn’t any straightforward answer to it. While average returns are expected to be around 10-30%, specific improvements offer a higher ROI than others.
Here is a comprehensive overview of what increases home value the most:
1. Make Your Space Appear Spacious
Even if two residential units have the same size, buyers and tenants will prefer the one that appears spacious and well-maintained. Here comes the first home improvement idea to sell property easily: ‘creating visually spacious interiors’.
From adding more rooms to organising the space, there are multiple ways to make your house look spacious. For instance, it’s best to stick to minimal furniture and invest in storage solutions. Other tips include letting sunlight in and adding blinds to make a small space look bigger.
2. Replace Windows
If you don’t have a big renovation budget, window replacement is a budget-friendly yet high ROI home improvement idea. You can choose from different types, sizes and materials. Additionally, you can opt for energy-efficient windows that lower power consumption and reduce your utility costs.
3. Renovate Bathrooms
Did you know that a well-executed bathroom renovation project can increase returns by 75-80% of the renovation cost? With just a few upgrades and improvements, you can earn impressive returns in the UAE.
Most tenants and buyers look forward to a blend of functionality and aesthetics. This is why you should focus on installing stylish tiles, replacing cabinetry and adding a walk-in shower.

4. Kitchen Remodelling
After bathrooms, a well-developed kitchen is another deal breaker for most buyers and tenants. Remodelling a kitchen is more than fixing lights or paint touch-ups; there’s more to it.
You can invest in modern kitchen appliances, install lighting fixtures and repaint walls. As for the layout, you can opt for open or closed kitchens. Where open kitchens allow more natural light, closed kitchens offer an enclosed space dedicated to cooking.
5. Energy-Efficient and Smart Upgrades

Given the shift towards a sustainable lifestyle, the UAE real estate is continuously adapting to this change. Nowadays, buyers and tenants prioritise smart homes with tech-powered features and devices.
In addition, there’s a high demand for energy-efficient homes, fitted with solar panels, HVAC systems and thermostats. Such energy-efficient homes enhance value by 5-10% and reduce utility costs by 15-20%.
6. House Painting
If you’re short on time and want to sell your house quickly, you can consider repainting your home. This is comparatively a lower-cost but higher-return idea.
You can choose to do it yourself or hire a professional painter. However, it is recommended to use neutral colours and avoid dark, bright or fancy tones.
7. Outdoor Spaces and Landscaping
Landscaping is considered one of the best home improvements to increase property value. From gardens to relaxing pools, outdoor spaces significantly boost property value.
Since most buyers today seek modern homes, it is essential to focus on upgrading the look and feel of your house. Such homes not only sell faster but also offer increased returns of up to 10-20%.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Home Improvements
Now you have the answer to this question: ‘How much do home improvements increase value?’. However, it is crucial to avoid some mistakes during the home renovation process. From overdoing wallpapers to choosing the wrong colours, specific home renovation ideas decrease property value.
Here is a brief on some common home improvement mistakes:
- Over-customisation: Most homeowners often overimprove a property. The truth is that minimalistic looks and colours always work wonders.
- Expensive Upgrades: Never overspend on upgrades or invest more than in your neighbourhood properties.
- Quality: Focus on quality over quantity. While sticking to the budget, use premium-quality materials and hire professional services.
- Legal Rules: Before renovating a house, ensure you obtain all necessary permits to avoid future issues.

FAQs
Yes, home improvements can significantly boost property value and generate impressive returns.
Well-executed bathroom and kitchen renovation projects increase home value the most.
Using dark or bright colours for painting your home can eventually decrease the house value. Always opt for neutral palettes and avoid overly fancy colours.
We have answered your most-asked question: ‘How much do home improvements increase value?’. Whether you are about to list your property for sale or lease, consider giving it a quick makeover. Follow our quick home improvement ideas to boost your property’s value significantly.
For the most effective results, always hire a professional renovation company in Dubai or other Emirates. Similarly, residents of the capital can consider these home maintenance services in Abu Dhabi.