What are quick ways to add value to my home?

When you are selling your home. it’s natural to want to learn about quick ways to add value to your property. Here’s our roundup of effective tips to help improve the saleability and value of your home. Some are quick and easy, others will take a little more time and forward planning. Create a worklist of simple improvements for your home. Short of ideas? You’ll find plenty of inspiration online.

1. Enhance kerb appeal

Buyers will be drawn to your home by a ‘for sale’ board or an online listing. Remember that the first impressions of your property are powerful, particularly the impact it has when it’s first seen.

Front door: repaint or replace your front door to create a strong first impression.
Landscaping: tidy up the garden, trim hedges, mow the lawn, and plant flowers. If you don’t have a garden, make sure the exterior areas are clean and tidy.
Exterior lighting: add attractive outdoor lighting to highlight key features of your property and improve security.

2. Update the kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of your home. We’re not suggesting replacing your kitchen, just making a few useful improvements.

New hardware: replace outdated cabinet handles and knobs.
Backsplash: install a modern backsplash for a fresh look.
Appliances: upgrade to energy-efficient appliances if your budget allows.

3. Refresh the bathroom

This is an important room, and some simple improvements can often be overlooked.

Grout and sealant: regrout tiles and replace worn-out sealant for a cleaner appearance.
Fixtures: thoroughly clean or update taps, shower heads, and cabinet handles.
Lighting: add or improve bathroom lighting to make the space brighter and more inviting.

4. Improve energy efficiency

Energy costs are important to purchasers, so consider the following.

Insulation: add or improve insulation in the loft and walls.
Windows and doors: install double-glazed windows and weatherproof doors.
Smart thermostat: install a smart thermostat to enhance energy management.

5. Paint and decorate

Your home is decorated to suit your tastes, but this won’t suit everyone, so think about how you can widen its appeal.

Neutral colours: paint walls in neutral tones to interest a wider range of buyers.
Accent walls: add an accent wall for a touch of contemporary character.
Wall art and mirrors: decorate with tasteful wall art and mirrors to enhance the sense of space and flow.

6. Increase usable space

This is one of the simplest and most effective things to do. Space is the most valuable commodity in your home, so show your property at its most spacious.

Declutter: remove excess furniture and personal items to make rooms feel larger.
Basement / loft: clean and organise these spaces to highlight their potential use.
Storage solutions: add built-in storage or shelving to make spaces more functional.

7. Upgrade flooring

Hardwood: If budget allows, install or refinish hardwood floors.
Carpets: deep clean dirty carpets, replace worn ones, or opt for laminate flooring.

8. Improve Lighting

The emotional appeal of a room often hinges on space and light. Here are three simple ideas for improving the light in your rooms.

Natural light: use light curtains or blinds to maximise natural light.
LED bulbs: replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs.
Fixtures: update outdated light fittings and shades for a contemporary look.

9. Add a deck or patio

Outdoor living: create an outdoor living space with a deck or patio to enhance the usability of your garden or outdoor space. If you already have one, treat it to a through clean-down to enhance its appeal.

10. Take care of small repairs

Small repairs are noticeable to viewers and can be an unwanted distraction.

Fix leaks: repair any leaking taps or pipes.
Doors and windows: fix any sticking doors or windows and replace broken locks or handles.
Minor repairs: address any minor issues like cracked tiles, peeling paint, or loose fixtures.

11. Create an open floor plan

Remove non-structural walls: if feasible, remove a non-structural wall to create a more open and spacious layout.

These quick improvements can significantly enhance the value and appeal of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its market value.

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