Growing a real estate refurb business isn’t just about swinging hammers—it’s about strategy, smart partnerships, and squeezing value out of every pound.
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your operation, here are 10 proven ways to expand your refurb business, including how to save money using surplus equipment, make use of removals and boxing services, and even access startup grants.
1. Tap Into Grants and Startup Funding
Getting the initial capital for tools, transport, and insurance can be tough. Luckily, there are UK government and local council grants available for small businesses in construction, property maintenance, and refurbishment.
Check out:
Start Up Loans UK (loans + mentoring)
Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) for regional grants
Green retrofit incentives if you focus on sustainable refurbishments
Use this funding to cover your setup costs or invest in better marketing—so you can start strong.
2. Build a Strong Visual Portfolio
Refurbishment of real estate is visual—people want to see results.
Take professional before-and-after photos, shoot short time-lapse videos, and share them on Instagram, LinkedIn, and your Google Business profile.
A stunning visual portfolio instantly builds trust and helps you win new clients faster than any ad campaign.
3. Partner with Removals Companies
When property owners refurbish, they usually need help moving furniture out and back in. Forming partnerships with local removal companies allows you to offer clients a “move and refurb” combo deal.
You get more business, and they get reliable referrals—it’s a win-win that adds convenience for your customers.
4. Offer Branded Removal Boxing
Level up your professionalism by offering branded removal boxes and packing kits for clients during renovations. You can sell them as part of your service or rent them out.
It’s great for marketing (your brand travels with every box) and helps keep client possessions protected and organised during refurbs.
5. Use Surplus Equipment to Kit Out Your Office
Don’t waste money buying brand-new furniture or office gear. Many businesses sell or donate surplus equipment—desks, shelving, computers, even vans—at a fraction of the cost.
Websites like Surplus.net, Gumtree, or local business clearance sales can help you kit out your office cheaply and sustainably.
It’s a smart move that saves money and gives you a professional setup for client meetings or team coordination.
6. Specialise in a High-Value Niche
Rather than doing all types of work, consider specialising in a profitable niche:
Rental-ready renovations for landlords
Eco-friendly refurbs for sustainable homes
Quick flip refurbs for property investors
Being known for one thing helps you stand out, charge more, and attract repeat clients.
7. Streamline Projects with Tech Tools
Organisation is everything. Using CRM and project management tools like GoHighLevel or ClickUp helps you manage leads, quotes, client follow-ups, and on-site teams.
Automate your reminders, invoices, and updates—it makes your business look professional and saves you hours every week.
8. Leverage Local SEO and Reviews
Your clients are searching phrases like “property refurbishment near me” or “home renovation in [your town].”
Make sure you’re at the top of search results by:
Creating a complete Google Business Profile
Adding local keywords to your website
Asking every happy customer to leave a Google review
Local visibility equals more calls, leads, and contracts.
9. Build Partnerships with Real Estate Agents and Landlords
Collaborate with estate agents who regularly need refurbs before listing homes. Offer them a priority partner discount or commission structure for referring clients.
The same goes for landlords—once they trust you, you’ll be their go-to for every upgrade, repair, or refurb.
10. Encourage Word-of-Mouth and Referrals
People trust people. Offer a referral reward—for example, “Refer a friend and get £150 off your next project.”
Pair that with exceptional service, punctuality, and clear communication, and you’ll grow through recommendations faster than through ads.
Final Thoughts
Growing a real estate refurb business isn’t about spending big—it’s about being resourceful.
By using surplus equipment to set up your office, forming smart partnerships with removal and boxing services, and tapping into grants for funding, you can build a lean, profitable, and professional business that scales steadily.
