Homeowners hoping to improve the price of their property with a spot of DIY should choose carefully as some features add more value than others, according to one mortgage lender.

Halifax's valuers said a loft conversion should be the first choice for best value for money home upgrade, closely followed by a modern, fitted kitchen and almost a third of homeowners surveyed were on the right track, thinking an updated kitchen adds the most value.

A smart garden creates the right first impression for 43 per cent of buyers and over a third place importance on the appeal of the design and decoration in the front room - 13 per cent judge a place by the windows and driveway.

Limescale or mould build-up was considered the most undesirable 'cosmetic' feature of a property for one in ten people, closely followed by limited parking space and a lack of a garden area.

Property valuers suggest after a loft conversion and a new kitchen, homeowners should opt for painting and decorating to add a new lease of life to their home and give the addition eight out of ten value for money, followed by an extension or a new bathroom.

"Looking at improvements that add value it is important to remember that the best return is not all financial. We do own property to live in and enjoy a quality of life, as well as wanting to get our investment back in the future," claims Patrick Sawdon, chief valuer at Halifax.

"Well-planned and executed improvements can add to the value of your property significantly. But by the same measure, personal taste and botched work can strip thousands off the price of your home."