Do the structural and safety checks first
Before spending money on cosmetics, check the fundamentals. Get an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) if the wiring is old or you are unsure of its age — costs £150–£300 and tells you if the electrics are safe. Check the Gas Safe status of the boiler: a service costs £80–£130 and is essential. If a surveyor flagged any structural issues, deal with those before anything else.
Fix damp and ventilation problems early
Damp is cheaper and easier to fix when caught early. Check for signs of damp in all rooms, especially ground floor corners, under windows, and in bathrooms. Ensure extractor fans work in kitchens and bathrooms. Consider fitting a PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) unit in the loft if the house is prone to condensation — costs around £300–£500 installed.
Boiler and heating
If the boiler is over 10 years old, factor in a likely replacement within a few years. If it is running but unserviced, get it serviced immediately. An annual service is non-negotiable for efficiency, warranty, and safety. If the property has no central heating at all, installing a system is a significant cost but the most impactful improvement for livability and value.
Cosmetic improvements: what can wait
New kitchens, bathrooms, and decorating can wait until you have addressed structural, safety, and damp issues. Living with an ugly kitchen for a year while you build up funds is much better than ignoring a water ingress problem. Prioritise by impact on safety and value preservation, not visual appeal.