SPRING is finally in the air and for some home owners, it’s time to start thinking about redecorating or even putting their property on the market, as the new selling season gets under way.

According to estimates from NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) Propertymark, owners across the UK have spent a total of £41bn doing up their homes over the past five years.

Nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) made improvements to their properties during this period, with redecorating, landscaping the garden, adding new flooring and refreshing the bathroom among the most popular home improvements, forking out an average £1,875 in the process.

Mark Hayward, chief executive of NAEA Propertymark, says: “There are many reasons why home owners improve their property – whether it’s because they have realised the value and sale potential it can add, or they cannot afford to move and are looking to make the most of what they’ve already got. Your house will almost certainly be more attractive to buyers with some general sprucing up and cleaning. Improvements that create a sense of space, privacy and give a great first impression will also increase saleability.”

A quarter of home owners thought improving their property would be a good investment and add value, the research found – but home improvements can be costly, and the potential to add value often depends on what’s happening in your local property market. The advice from the professionals is to weigh up whether any work will be worthwhile before you set about ‘improving’ your home.