Quick and cheap ways to increase the value of your home.
Everyone wants their home to be worth as much as possible. There are small changes you can make, that are almost cost free, that will increase the value almost instantly.
Regardless of whether you’re looking to move now or at some point in the future it’s a good idea to consider the below and do the work now. It can only be a good thing.
Cleanliness - It seems obvious, but if your property is not clean, it will be less appealing to a viewer. More than simply running around with a hoover and bleach around the bathroom, a deep clean before your valuations could pay dividends. Paying particular attention to grout around tiles and silicone around the kitchen and bathrooms as these are quite difficult to clean properly but are very noticeable on a viewing appointment. If you do this consistently it will also increase the longevity of your home.
Dated Decor - If the decor within your home is dated this can significantly impact the attraction of your property. Peeling wallpaper, faded walls, or scuffed and chipped woodwork will give the impression that your property has lots of work needed to get it up to standard. It could hugely improve the valuation of your property if you spend a few weekends freshening up the decor.
Declutter - Having a decluttered home is a way to simplify your life. You know where everything is, and there is no more rummaging or tearing the house apart trying to find something. And, if you appear to not have enough room for your belongings, your house must not be big enough, right? This is the impression that a cluttered home can give potential buyers and put them off because they either a) can't really see your home because of all the belongings in the way, or b) they'll think that it is too small for them and their stuff too. Consider organising your things in boxes and baskets and support your local charity shop! To read our full article to help you declutter click here.
Overgrown Gardens - An overgrown garden not only looks messy, but it will also seem smaller! A viewer will see an unkempt garden as a huge challenge they must tackle, which might prevent them from making an offer. Square footage equals value, so a quick way to show the full extent of your outside space is to cut back and tidy up the bushes, trees and flower beds. The sooner you start this process the better. Try and stay on top of it throughout the year which will make the task quicker and more enjoyable.
The intention here is to showcase your home in a way that is as much of a blank canvas as possible. Unless you're selling a property for refurbishment, and this is reflected in the marketing price, it is expected that you, your family, and all your belongings will also be living in the property. You aren't expected to have a 'show-room standard' home, but clearing out as much as possible to show off the size and space you have properly could improve the price that someone will be willing to offer you.
By following these tips, you will present your home so that a buyer can clearly see the size and state of your property without giving them a mental to-do list of all the tasks they will have to tackle. If your home is ready for them to move into, and they can see themselves being happy and settling in quickly, then you are more likely to be able to negotiate a higher offer from them.
If you're considering moving in the next few months and would like a property valuation, contact our property experts today for a free, no-obligation valuation.