Selling your property is exciting, especially when you’re expecting a good return on your investment. While factors like location and market trends play a significant role in the final price, the condition and presentation of your home can also make a noticeable difference in your property valuation. Here are five simple ways to boost your property’s value before putting it on the market.
- Boost Kerb Appeal with Exterior Upgrades
Think of the exterior as a first impression of your property, and like any good first impression, it needs to impress. The goal here is to create a welcoming atmosphere that piques curiosity and encourages buyers to explore further.
Start with the basics:
- Clean the windows
- Trim overgrown hedges
- Mow the lawn
- Pick up any rubbish
- Touch up any paintwork
Buyers are likely to pay attention to how much work might be involved in maintaining the outside of the property, so make sure it looks neat and well-kept.
- Modernise Key Rooms: Kitchen & Bathroom
While any room in the house can benefit from a little attention, the kitchen and bathroom are the two areas that often make the most impact.
A modern, functional kitchen and bathroom appeal to buyers who like the idea of moving into a space where they won’t need to do any immediate upgrades. If your kitchen or bathroom is outdated, consider replacing old fixtures. Upgrading the flooring to something modern and easy to clean, such as large-format tiles or vinyl, can also add value.
- Open Up Space & Improve Layout
Space is a key consideration for most buyers, and creating a sense of openness within your home can make your property feel much more valuable. Even small properties can benefit from tricks that make them appear more spacious.
- Remove unnecessary furniture: You might be surprised how much bigger a room can look when it’s not crammed with items.
- Add mirrors: By reflecting light, you create the illusion of more space.
- Try structural changes: If you have the time and budget, you could knock down a non-structural wall to open up the kitchen.
- Reconsider functions of rooms: Convert smaller rooms into home office spaces or walk-in wardrobes to show potential buyers about the versatility of rooms.
- Mind the Details
The devil is in the details, as the saying goes, and the small touches can often make a big difference when it comes to increasing your property’s appeal. Simple tasks like replacing old lightbulbs, touching up scuffed walls with a fresh coat of paint, or fixing broken fixtures can help the property feel more polished and move-in ready.
- Enhance Energy Efficiency
In today’s market, homes that offer lower running costs tend to stand out.
Start by addressing any draughts around windows and doors. Sealing gaps with weatherstripping or adding draught excluders can prevent heat from escaping and make the home feel warmer.
Simple improvements like switching to energy-efficient light bulbs and installing a smart thermostat can also make your property more attractive to buyers who want to save on utility bills.
If your boiler is outdated or inefficient, it might be worth replacing it with a more energy-efficient model, especially if it’s a common concern for prospective buyers in your area.
