How Kenyan Homeowners Can Improve Property Value Without Overspending

In a climate of economic uncertainty, homeowners are increasingly prioritising strategic and cost-effective renovations to maximise property value without incurring excessive debt. 

This approach, whether aimed at enhancing marketability for a future sale or improving the overall living environment, provides a tangible solution for those seeking to transform their houses into more appealing and functional homes. From simple cosmetic upgrades to innovative space expansion techniques, diligent planning and execution are essential components of this trend. Brendah Gitonga, an architect and founder of Silk House Collection, emphasises that substantial improvements can be realised without significant financial outlay. 

Cosmetic Enhancements and Lighting

She recommends a calculated approach, emphasising renovations that offer the highest return on investment while strictly adhering to budgetary constraints. Cosmetic enhancements represent one of the most effective and budget-friendly methods for revitalising a home. A fresh coat of paint, for example, has the capacity to fundamentally alter a room's ambience. Selecting appropriate colours, whether opting for crisp whites for a contemporary aesthetic or warm neutrals for a more inviting atmosphere, can produce a notable difference. Similarly, modernising fixtures such as cabinet handles, doorknobs, and lighting can imbue a space with a contemporary touch without necessitating major financial commitments.

Lighting is a critical element in establishing a welcoming atmosphere. Replacing harsh overhead lights with softer, layered options, such as lamps or pendant lights, can transform a sterile space into an inviting one. Gitonga suggests considering the overall lighting scheme, ensuring each room benefits from a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to optimise functionality and aesthetic appeal. Kitchens and bathrooms are frequently regarded as the most vital areas when assessing a home's overall value. However, renovations in these spaces can quickly escalate costs. Gitonga recommends concentrating on surface-level improvements to achieve significant results without incurring substantial expenditures. 

In kitchens, consider employing contact paper to refresh countertops or cabinets. Painting old tiles or using peel-and-stick tile covers can provide a quick and affordable facelift. Comparable techniques can be applied to countertops, cabinets, and flooring in bathrooms. For flooring, mkeka wa mbao (vinyl wood-look flooring) presents an affordable, easy-to-install alternative that offers a warm and stylish appearance. Laminates are also an excellent option for revamping tired floors.

"The objective is to work with the existing layout and structure to the greatest extent possible," Gitonga advises. "Relocating sinks, showers, or toilets can substantially increase costs, so prioritising surface-level improvements is often the most practical course of action."

Increasing a home's square footage can significantly enhance its value, but conventional construction methods are often expensive and time-intensive. Gitonga suggests investigating creative and affordable approaches to expanding living areas by capitalising on existing spaces and exploring vertical expansion.

One such option involves transforming a flat roof into a rooftop lounge. A simple pergola constructed from steel or treated wood, combined with seating, potted plants, and ambient lighting, can create an inviting outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. 

Urban Garden 

Alternatively, consider establishing an urban garden. Raised planters or vertical garden walls are well-suited for cultivating herbs, vegetables, or flowers, thereby adding a sustainable and practical dimension to the home. Verandas offer another opportunity for expansion. Enclosing a veranda can create a home office, playroom, or sunroom. If a full enclosure is not feasible, incorporating blinds, latticework, or stylish screens can transform the space into a semi-private retreat that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor elements. For more inventive solutions, consider utilising cantilevers. Steel cantilevers are particularly well-suited for tight plots, allowing for the extension of rooms or the creation of cosy spaces, such as reading nooks, without altering the ground floor layout.

"The key to affordable space expansion is to leverage existing assets and consider both vertical and horizontal dimensions," Gitonga emphasises. "By capitalising on existing structures and employing creative design solutions, homeowners can increase functional living space without incurring substantial costs."

Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations

When renovating kitchens and bathrooms, Gitonga advises homeowners to prioritise smart, impactful updates that maximise value without overspending.

"The key is to work with what’s already there and focus on smart, impactful updates," she explains. "Stick to the existing layout. Moving sinks, showers, or toilets can quickly rack up costs, so I focus on surface-level improvements instead."

For cabinets, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Gitonga suggests sanding them down, applying oil-based or water-based enamel, and swapping out the old handles for something modern. 

Countertops can also get a facelift without going for high-end finishes like granite. Laminate boards or wood-look contact paper are budget-friendly and easy to apply. Peel-and-stick backsplashes can add a stylish touch to walls. Gitonga also recommends simple hacks for cleaning and reviving surfaces. WD-40 is effective for removing rust and stains from taps and metal fixtures, while a paste of vinegar and baking soda works wonders on stainless steel and ceramic. For stubborn rust, use sandpaper or wire wool. Tiles and grout can be cleaned using household bleach with warm water or a hydrogen peroxide and baking soda combo.

Changing the showerhead is another simple upgrade that can make a significant difference. Modern rain showers or water-saving options are available at supermarkets or local hardware stores. Adding simple bathroom accessories like towel racks, soap dispensers, and shelves can instantly make the space feel polished. You can also swap old mirrors for more contemporary designs and add warm LED lighting, like wall sconces or under-mirror strips, to give the bathroom a luxurious feel.

Basements and Attics as Untapped Resources

Many homes possess untapped potential in basements and attics. Rather than allowing these spaces to accumulate dust, Gitonga suggests transforming them into functional living areas. An attic can be insulated and converted into a cosy extra bedroom, a reading nook, or even a home office. Good lighting, light-colored paint, and low-profile furniture can completely change its purpose. Basements can be transformed into lounges, entertainment dens, or even rental units with basic finishing, waterproof flooring, decent lighting, and neutral paint.

Everyday, spaces around the house often hold untapped potential as well. Dining rooms that are not used regularly can double as home offices or study areas. Garages can be converted into stylish offices, home gyms, or studios with insulation, proper flooring, and ventilation. Even unused corridors or dead-end corners can be repurposed into practical storage areas or compact workstations with built-in shelves, desks, or cosy reading benches.

"The trick is to look at your current layout with fresh eyes and ask yourself, 'What space isn’t really serving me, and how can I flip it to add more value or function?'" Gitonga advises. "You might be surprised by how much more your home can offer without adding a single square meter."

Structural and Design Upgrades on a Budget

Structural and design upgrades can significantly boost a home's value without requiring a fortune. Gitonga recommends focusing on upgrades that enhance space, light, and curb appeal. Opening up the layout is a game-changer. Knocking down a non-load-bearing wall between the kitchen and dining area can create a more spacious and modern feel, as well as improve natural light flow. Adding a new window can also make a significant difference in a room that feels dark and boxed in. Aluminium or uPVC frames are excellent choices for upgrading windows, as they are sleek, secure, and improve insulation.

The facade is the first thing people notice, so curb appeal is essential. Plastering over old masonry gives the house a clean, uniform look. Textured finishes like Wall Master or Marmoran are durable and instantly modernise the space. Mazera stone cladding is an elegant touch that can be used in bands or full height around entryways or columns. A well-chosen colour palette, with timeless neutrals or earthy tones and bold accents on doors and trims, can give your home that premium, high-value feel. Small details like a modern front door, updated outdoor lighting, or even adding a simple porch overhang can completely change the first impression of your home.

The Power of DIY Renovations

DIY renovations and small upgrades can significantly enhance the functionality and value of your home when approached thoughtfully. Gitonga recommends utilising vertical space by installing open shelves or floating units above desks, in kitchens, or along corridors. This can declutter floor space and create the illusion of a taller, more spacious room. Multipurpose furniture, such as a bench that doubles as storage or a coffee table with hidden drawers, is ideal for tight spaces. Smart storage solutions, like baskets, under-bed boxes, and wardrobe organisers, help tame clutter without breaking the bank.

Repainting old furniture is a classic DIY project that can breathe new life into tired pieces. A coat of matte black, crisp white, or a bold accent colour can transform your dining set, bed frame, or cabinets. Updating light switch covers, knobs, and fixtures can also have an outsized impact. Rearranging furniture for better spatial flow can improve daylight penetration, enhance circulation, and create new zones like a cosy reading nook or a functional work-from-home corner. A bold feature wall with paint, contact paper, or wallpaper can turn a bland room into something striking. Textured finishes like wall panelling or faux brick cladding can be done as a DIY project with basic materials.

Maximising Appeal for Potential Buyers

For those looking to sell, Gitonga recommends decluttering, deep-cleaning, and depersonalising the home. Adding neutral-toned curtains, updating lighting for warmth, and repairing any visible defects can make a significant difference. Scented diffusers or fresh flowers can also help during showings.

Landscaping and Outdoor Improvements

Transforming your outdoor space doesn’t have to be expensive. Gitonga recommends maintaining a clean, well-kept lawn, adding simple pathways with stepping stones or paving blocks, and creating inviting seating areas with a bench under a tree or a small bistro set. Potted plants, hanging baskets, or low-maintenance greenery like succulents and crotons can add life and colour. Solar garden lights are affordable and easy to install, adding ambience without wiring. Repainting gates, railings, or flower pots can refresh surfaces, and functional upgrades like a DIY fire pit, vertical garden, or a small pergola can add appeal.