From a lick of paint to building an extension or conservatory, there are a number of ways to add value to your home.

Your home is probably the biggest asset you'll ever own, and whether you're looking to sell it, or simply make it more comfortable, there are some DIY jobs that can add value to it.

A fabulous frontage

If you have a viewing planned, remember that first impressions count, so make sure your home's frontage is spick and span. Tidy up the exterior by clearing the front garden, cleaning up your garage and front door, and adding new door accessories such as a smart letterbox or doorknob.

Always make sure drain pipes are secure and not leaking, and give them a coat of paint to make them look new. At the back, tidy the rear garden and add a splash of colour by painting the fence or shed.

Freshen up the interior

The main reception rooms create the biggest impression, so always ensure the carpets have been professionally cleaned, and touch up any paintwork.

If you're going to treat your living room to a fresh lick of paint, neutral colours are best. Upstairs, you can make over the bathroom with simple changes such as new taps, new grouting and new shower screens. In the bedrooms, replace any broken storage and keep everything neat and uncluttered.

In the kitchen

Fancy a new kitchen but don't want to fork out thousands for the pleasure? Then simply replace your cabinet doors and drawers. New "facings" can transform a tired-looking kitchen and give it a completely new look. They cost just a tiny fraction of the price of a full replacement kitchen, and there's none of the mess involved in ripping out the old one.

And best of all, you can do it yourself. New doors and drawer fronts are available for just a few pounds each, and they'll completely change the look and feel of your entire kitchen. Or if you're an experienced DIYer, you might even consider fitting new worktops or laying new flooring.

To DIY or not to DIY?

Whatever home improvement projects you're planning, doing them yourself can save a small fortune compared to hiring a handyman. But be careful not to bite off more than you can chew, because some jobs really do require the services of a professional, and a botched DIY job can leave you with a hefty bill to put it right.

For anything electrical, call in a NICEIC-registered contractor. And don't even think of going near a gas supply - call in a Gas Safe engineer. Even putting up a new shelf or hanging a picture can have disastrous consequences if you hit a cable or pipe in the wall - so always check using a multi-detector. You can buy a handheld detector for around £15, and it could be the smartest investment you ever make.

Protecting your investment

If you've invested in your home, make sure you're adequately covered with home insurance. Police Mutual's Home Insurance provides a range of benefits including £75,000 contents cover as standard (including contents in outbuildings), Domestic Emergency Cover as standard (up to £500 per claim) and a dedicated claims team should you ever need it.

Police Mutual's Home Insurance is provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc. PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.