The Devon Home Improvement Hotspots: Where Homeowners Are Investing Most In Their Properties

Homeowners across Devon are continuing to invest heavily in their properties, with renovation projects increasingly focused on improving energy efficiency, creating additional living space and enhancing long-term property value.

Rather than moving home, many households are choosing to improve the properties they already own. Rising moving costs, a competitive housing market and changing lifestyles have encouraged homeowners to invest in renovations that improve comfort, increase usable space and make homes more efficient to run.

Across the county, demand remains strong for a wide range of home improvement projects, from kitchen and bathroom renovations to loft conversions, insulation upgrades, landscaping and bespoke outdoor living spaces. Improvements that reduce ongoing maintenance or lower energy bills are also becoming increasingly popular as homeowners look to future-proof their properties.

Devon's housing stock is particularly diverse, ranging from historic cottages and character homes to modern family developments and coastal properties. This variety means renovation priorities often differ between areas, although improving comfort, appearance and long-term value remains a common goal for homeowners throughout the region. According to the Energy Saving Devon initiative, improving the energy performance of existing homes will play a major role in reducing household energy demand across the county.

Devon's home improvement hotspots

Taking into account local property markets, housing stock, renovation potential and homeowner demand, these are some of the strongest locations for home improvement projects across Devon.

Exeter continues to be one of Devon's strongest housing markets thanks to its growing economy, universities and excellent transport connections. Many homeowners are modernising older properties while improving energy efficiency and creating flexible living space to suit hybrid working.

South Hams remains one of the county's most desirable locations, with premium homes in areas such as Salcombe and Dartmouth often undergoing high-quality renovations that preserve character while introducing modern comforts. East Devon also continues to attract families seeking village living with convenient access to Exeter, leading to steady demand for property improvements.

North Devon offers a different opportunity, with many detached homes and bungalows providing excellent potential for refurbishment. Meanwhile, Teignbridge and Mid Devon continue to appeal to homeowners looking for affordable properties that can be upgraded over time.

Energy efficiency is becoming a major priority

Alongside traditional home improvements, homeowners are placing greater emphasis on reducing energy costs and improving the efficiency of their properties.

Better insulation, upgraded double glazing, improved ventilation and renewable heating technologies are becoming increasingly common as households seek to reduce running costs while improving comfort throughout the year. Simple improvements such as replacing older windows, improving loft insulation and upgrading lighting can make a noticeable difference to both energy consumption and overall property performance.

The Devon Carbon Plan highlights the importance of retrofitting existing housing, noting that around 80% of the homes occupied in 2050 have already been built. As a result, improving existing properties will be essential to reducing carbon emissions while creating warmer, more efficient homes. Devon Carbon Plan

Outdoor living continues to shape renovation trends

Another noticeable trend across Devon is the continued investment in outdoor living spaces. As homeowners spend more time at home, demand has increased for gardens that provide practical year-round use rather than simply outdoor seating during the summer months.

Landscaping projects, composite decking, outdoor kitchens and bespoke garden buildings are becoming increasingly popular, allowing households to create flexible spaces for work, exercise, entertaining and relaxation. These improvements can significantly enhance the way homeowners use their property without the cost and disruption associated with moving house.

Garden rooms, in particular, have become one of the fastest-growing home improvement projects. Whether used as a dedicated home office, gym, studio or additional family room, they provide valuable extra space while complementing the existing property and garden.

Angus Mackintosh, Director at Designer Garden Rooms, said: "We're seeing more homeowners invest in improvements that genuinely enhance everyday living rather than simply increasing property size. A bespoke garden room creates flexible space that can evolve with a family's needs, whether that's working from home, exercising, entertaining or simply creating somewhere to relax. When thoughtfully designed, it also complements the existing property and can add lasting appeal."

Renovating for the future

Home improvement is increasingly being viewed as a long-term investment rather than simply a cosmetic upgrade. Homeowners are combining practical improvements with higher-quality finishes that enhance appearance, improve comfort and reduce future maintenance requirements.

Across Devon, projects that improve energy efficiency, create additional usable space and modernise older properties are expected to remain in demand for years to come. Whether renovating a period cottage in West Devon, upgrading a family home in Exeter or transforming a coastal property in Torbay, homeowners are increasingly choosing improvements that deliver everyday benefits alongside long-term value.

As the county's housing stock continues to evolve, investment in quality renovation projects is likely to remain one of the most effective ways for homeowners to improve comfort, reduce running costs and make better use of the homes they already own.