If you are looking to sell your home soon, you’ll likely want to maximise its value. So, making some simple changes before you put it on the market can go a long way to boosting your sale price.
Here are 10 simple and affordable changes you can make to your home that could boost its value ahead of sale.
- Give it a fresh coat of paint
A move as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint to the interior and exterior walls of your home is a cost-effective way to increase its value.
A well-painted home can make a significant impact on potential buyers, giving them a sense of freshness and cleanliness.
Ideal Home say that repainting can lead to an estimated profit of £7,515 – based on an average cost of £2,850 and estimated value increase of £10,365 (5%).
- Increase the kerb appeal
As the old saying goes, “you only get one chance to make a first impression”.
The exterior of your home will be the first impression potential buyers have of your property. So, power-washing your driveway, tending to your front garden, and painting your fences and front door are all easy ways to increase the value of your home.
Make sure also that the front of your home is tidy, that you put your bins away ahead of a viewing, and that there is not rubbish or debris in your front garden.
- Tend to your garden
Writing in the Daily Express, Chris Bonnett, the founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, says: “Never overlook the garden when planning to sell your home, as it’s a huge selling point for many house hunters.”
Simple and affordable tips Chris suggests include:
- Keep the lawn neat by mowing it and edging the walkways
- Plant seasonal flowers
- Introduce colour by adding potted plants
- Refresh your hanging baskets
- Dress up the front garden.
Chris also suggests this simple trick to make your garden appear larger: carefully position small, medium-sized and larger plants in a sequence. The repetition and decreasing size as you look down the garden helps to create an optical illusion.
- Upgrade your flooring
The flooring in your home can have a surprising effect on its value. Hardwood floors are an excellent investment, and you may be able to get a great return by upgrading to them.
They are easy to maintain, long-lasting, and can be refinished several times, making them attractive to potential buyers.
- Renovate your kitchen
Refitting your kitchen is likely to be expensive, but there are steps you can take that won’t break the bank.
Upgrading appliances, countertops, and even replacing things like your cupboard doors can increase your home’s value and make it more attractive to buyers. A modern and updated kitchen is a huge selling point.
- Upgrade your lighting
Estate agent Savills reports that “homes that offer more cost-efficient energy alternatives […] are climbing higher up buyers’ wish lists”.
Upgrading your lighting can make a world of difference in your home’s value. Replacing outdated light fixtures with modern, energy-efficient ones will not only save you money on your energy bill but also add a contemporary touch to your home.
- Add storage
No one likes a cluttered home, but adding storage can solve that problem.
When you are tidying and decluttering your home for sale, consider also installing built-in cabinets, bookshelves, or cupboards – or clear the ones you have – to create storage space.
- Upgrade your bathroom
Updating your bathroom can be another excellent investment, and it doesn’t have to be a complete overhaul, either. Small updates, such as a new sink, toilet, or shower head, can make a big difference in the overall value of your home.
Additionally, a simple retiling job can freshen up the space and make it look as good as new.
- Replace old windows
Ideal Home say that “window replacement can instantly boost the value of your property […] newly fitted windows can help you to be more energy-efficient and reduce noise pollution in your home.”
With more buyers considering energy-efficiency when buying a home, replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones can increase its value. New windows can also enhance the overall look of your home, making it more appealing to buyers.
This may not be the cheapest of upgrades, so shop around for quotes before you commit.
- Make minor repairs
If there are any minor repairs that need to be made, take care of them before you put your home on the market. This will show potential buyers that your home is well-maintained.
Some common minor repairs include fixing leaky taps, repairing cracked tiles, and filling any plaster cracks.
Get in touch
If you are thinking of selling your home and moving, please get in touch. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and discuss your mortgage needs.
Please note: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
