- Add an Extra Bedroom
Why it works: Creating an extra bedroom—even by partitioning part of a living area—can raise value by $100k–$150k.
Cost tip: Sometimes achievable for under $10k, depending on materials and layout.
Expert: Frank Valentic, property flipper from The Block.
- Bathroom or Kitchen Upgrades
Return on investment: Expect to double your renovation spend by refreshing these rooms.
Smart strategy:
Convert existing laundry into a bathroom for around $15k.
Update countertops to thicker stone and replace splashbacks—gives a fresh, modern feel without a full remodel.
Expert insight: Anissa Cavallo, founder of Eda Property Group.
- Boost Curb Appeal & Outdoor Living
Easy wins:
Update paint, landscaping, front fence, and entryway.
Enhances first impressions and can boost value by ~10%.
Luxury touch: A gravel car park in the front yard or a pergola to create an “outdoor room” adds both charm and utility.
- Solar Panels
Solar installations are increasingly valued by buyers, due to energy savings.
Victoria’s rebate schemes could cover up to half the installation cost—making solar panels a cost-efficient upgrade.
- New Flooring
Why it’s a good move: Shifting from carpet to floorboards or upgrading your living spaces’ flooring often brings back more than you invest.
Sound advice: Especially effective in aged homes; relatively affordable with high visual impact.
- Smart Cosmetic Updates
Low-cost, high-reward: Fresh paint, new carpet, and tiling can lift buyer perception dramatically, especially when budgets are tight.
Agent caution: Don’t invest heavily in kitchen and bathroom if the rest of the home is dated—go for full cohesion.
Additional Supports for These Upgrades
Energy-efficiency wins: Solar panels are particularly valued. Research shows 73% of Australians consider them a top value booster .
Broader renovation principles:
Align your renovation value with neighborhood norms—overcapitalizing won’t yield better returns .
Consistency matters—a modern kitchen adjacent to a neglected bathroom can actually hurt value .