What Adds Value to Your House or New Build? Find Out Today!

March 15, 2025

Thinking about what adds value to your house or new build? Whether you're planning to sell, boost your rental return or simply want to create a better space for your family, making the right improvements can pay off.

A well-thought-out upgrade not only makes a property more appealing but also offers long-term benefits. Let’s explore the best ways to add value to your home or project so you can get the most out of your investment.

Your Home and Value

Understanding what influences home and value can help you make informed decisions. Several factors affect the value of your property, including:

Location – Proximity to schools, shops, public transport and other conveniences affects the value of a property.
Market trends – House prices fluctuate based on demand, interest rates and the economy.
Property features – The layout, size, finishes and overall condition all contribute to value.

Boosting your home’s value means increasing resale potential, attracting buyers and improving liveability. If selling isn’t on your plans, upgrades can make a home more comfortable and functional for your family.

What Adds Value to Your House When Building

If you're starting fresh with a new build, smart design choices are what adds value to your house when building. Here’s what to focus on to achieve an increase in long-term value.

Kitchen

When it comes to the question, “What adds value to your house?”, one of the top answers is a well-designed kitchen. A boost in the property value can be achieve by:

Opting for quality benchtops like stone or quartz for durability and style.
Installing modern appliances to improve functionality and energy efficiency.
Adding plenty of storage to keep the space organised, such as deep drawers and a walk-in pantry.
Incorporating a stylish splashback for added character and easy cleaning easier.

Bathroom

Whether it’s an ensuite or a main bathroom, a thoughtfully designed bathroom adds both style and function.

Frameless glass showers create a sleek, open feel.
Floating vanities make the space look bigger and offer extra storage.
Water-saving taps and toilets help lower utility bills and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Granny Flat

A secondary dwelling not only increases living space but also opens doors for rental income or multi-generational living.

Great for elderly parents, teenagers or guests.
A well-designed space with a separate entrance, a functional kitchen and a bathroom will make it more attractive to tenants.
Smart storage solutions can help small spaces feel bigger and more comfortable.

Outdoor Entertainment Space

Well-designed outdoor areas extend your living space and create the perfect spot for gatherings.

A covered patio or alfresco area provides a space for outdoor dining.
Features like a built-in fire pit or stylish decking create a welcoming atmosphere.
An outdoor kitchen or BBQ area adds luxury and convenience.

Storage

Buyers and homeowners alike appreciate smart storage solutions that keep clutter at bay.

Built-in wardrobes with custom shelving optimise bedroom space.
A walk-in pantry with easy access to everyday items makes kitchen organisation effortless.
Hidden storage under stairs or window seats helps maximise space.

Flooring

The right flooring sets the tone for your entire home.

Timber flooring adds warmth and elegance.
Hybrid flooring is durable, water-resistant and ideal for busy households.
Quality tiles in high-traffic areas mean less maintenance and better long-term value.

Energy-Efficient Custom Homes

Sustainability is a big selling point and having an energy-efficient custom home means lower running costs while adding value.

Double-glazed windows improve insulation and reduce noise.
Solar panels and high-quality insulation cut down on electricity bills and make the home self-sufficient.
Smart home systems allow for automated lighting, security and climate control. It also adds another layer of convenience.

Home Extension/Addition

More space means more flexibility, and adding extra bedrooms, bathrooms, a second living area house extension or a granny flat can make a home more practical and comfortable for growing families.

Extra bedrooms make a home more appealing to buyers.
A second living area provides more flexibility for entertaining or relaxing.
Adding a home office is a smart move, especially with more people working remotely.

What Adds Value to Your House: Other Simple Upgrades

If you're not looking to build or extend, small updates can still make a big impact on your home and value, such as:

Paint

A fresh coat of paint instantly transforms a home, making it look clean and modern. Stick to neutral tones like whites, greys and soft beiges for broad appeal. These shades create a timeless look that suits any style.

Landscaping

A well-maintained garden makes a great first impression that boosts curb appeal and sets the tone for the entire property. A lush green lawn gives the home a well-cared-for appearance and low-maintenance plants keep things fresh without requiring constant upkeep.

Handles and Hardware

Updating handles and hardware is one of the easiest ways to modernise a home. Simple swaps can take outdated spaces and give them a contemporary edge. Choosing matte black or brushed brass handles and tapware can make cabinetry look brand new without a full renovation.

Splashback

A stylish splashback can improve the look of a kitchen with minimal effort. You may opt for bold or classic patterns, both can add a touch of style without the need for a full remodel.

Curtains

The right curtains can transform a space while reducing heating and cooling costs. Blockout curtains are perfect for keeping a home cool in summer and warm in winter. For a softer, airy feel, sheer curtains allow natural light to filter in while still providing a sense of privacy.

Lighting

Good lighting enhances both the functionality and ambience of a space. A pendant light over a kitchen island creates a stylish focal point, while recessed lighting offers a sleek, modern appearance. For added convenience and security, sensor lights outside provide extra visibility at night.

Add Solar Panels

More homeowners are investing in solar panels to reduce energy costs and live more sustainably. When considering what adds value to your house when building, solar energy is a smart addition that appeals to buyers looking for long-term savings on electricity bills.

For Custom Builds That Enhance Home and Value – Prestige Renovations Is the Expert!

Upgrading your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a full renovation, a new custom build or adding a granny flat, the right changes are what add value to your house, improve liveability and attract buyers when the time comes to sell.

Get in touch with Prestige Homes and Granny Flats to discuss how we can bring your vision to life!

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What Is a Granny Flat? Full Guide for Australian Homeowners

October 27, 2025

Granny flats are no longer just for grandparents. Across Australia, they’re being built as rental units, guest accommodation, or smart add-ons for multigenerational families. Climbing property prices and limited housing supply have made granny flats an attractive option for homeowners seeking flexibility and extra income. Before you build, there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. Before you start asking what granny flats are and how to build one, remember there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. What are Granny Flats? So what is a granny flat? The answer is simple. It’s a small, self-contained home built on the same block as a main residence. Think of it as a compact version of a regular house, usually including a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and one or two bedrooms. Most states cap their size at around 60 m², though exact limits vary. In Queensland, they’re often called “secondary dwellings,” while in Victoria, you’ll hear “dependent person’s unit.” No matter the name, the idea is the same: extra living space with independence built in. What Are Granny Flats Called in Perth? Across Perth and the wider WA region, granny flats are formally classified as “ancillary dwellings” under local council planning regulations. They’re permitted on most residential-zoned blocks that meet the minimum land size, with a maximum floor area of up to 70 m². A major difference in WA is who can occupy them. Since 2015, Perth’s rules have allowed ancillary dwellings to be rented to non-family members, giving homeowners more flexibility for rental income or family use. Councils such as the City of Perth, City of Stirling, and City of Joondalup apply these state planning guidelines, though it’s always worth checking your local council’s requirements before starting. In Perth, granny flats can take several forms. They may be built as a detached unit, joined to the main house, or created by converting existing structures like garages. This flexibility makes them an appealing way to add space, boost property value, or create rental income without leaving your current suburb. What Is Granny Flat: Legal and Planning Rules You Need to Know To fully understand what granny flats are, you also need to follow council regulations that vary from state to state. Zoning and Land Use Your block must be in the correct residential zone to allow an ancillary dwelling. Perth councils set these rules, so it’s important to confirm land use requirements before drawing up plans. Size Limits & Design In most parts of Australia, granny flats are limited to 60 m². In Perth and wider WA, ancillary dwellings can be up to 70 m², provided they meet council design codes for height, setbacks, and appearance. Approval Processes Some states require both planning and building permits, while others fast-track approval if certain criteria are met. In WA, approvals generally move faster when plans follow the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) . Rental & Occupancy Rules Unlike some states, Perth homeowners can lease ancillary dwellings to non-family members. Since the 2015 policy change, this flexibility has allowed granny flats to serve as either rental income properties or extra family space.

Step-by-Step Custom Home Build Checklist

October 24, 2025

Building your own custom home in Australia is exciting, but it can sometimes feel like you’ve got a lot on your plate. From design choices and council approvals to budgets and timelines, there are plenty of moving parts that can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why having a clear checklist is important. We’ll guide you through the key steps in building a custom home checklist. Whether it is your first build or an upgrade to suit your lifestyle, our team helps you stay organised and confident right through to the final handover. Building a Custom Home Checklist Think of a custom home checklist as your blueprint for staying organised. It turns the chaos of construction into a sequence of manageable steps. Without a checklist, you could face delays, unexpected costs and unnecessary stress. A detailed custom home build checklist ensures a smooth, cost-effective and worry-free build. It’s not just for first-time owners either. Even seasoned homeowners upgrading to a custom space benefit from a structured approach that keeps the build on track and aligned with their vision.