If you’re planning to sell your home, it makes sense to try to increase its value as much as possible. With potential buyers wanting to make their money go further, you need to make sure that your home ticks plenty of boxes.
Things like space, décor and kerb appeal all need to be considered. If you pay close attention to what buyers are looking for, you can expect to see that reflect positively on the price of your home. So how can you get your humble abode ready for a profitable stint on the market?
Space
Buyers are looking for innovative use of space, especially in smaller properties. Extensions are a great way of adding space to your home, while conservatories make the most of the view of your garden.
You may need to apply for planning permission, so make sure that your check before any work begins. It’s worth looking at how your neighbours have extended their homes, as you’ll be more likely to have permission accepted if they have as well. If you can’t extend, then make the most of the space that you have and knock walls down between spaces like the kitchen and living area. This will make the area feel more open and look more appealing to buyers.
Kerb appeal
It’s easy to ignore the outside of your home when you’re focusing on making the inside look great. However, you should never underestimate the power of “kerb appeal”. Just like books, we all judge homes by what they look like on the outside – even if we say we don’t!
A tidy front garden and freshly painted front door do wonders, as do clean curtains and uncluttered windowsills. If you don’t want to maintain a front garden, then consider having a drive put in. After all, off-road parking is what many buyers are looking for, and you can brighten up the space with a few pot plants or hanging baskets.
Odd jobs
Keep up to date with any maintenance to ensure that you get the best price for your home. Buyers will want to see that a house is in good working order, so it’s time to get cracking on those jobs you may have been putting off.
Repair leaky pipes and guttering, get the loft insulated, fully inspect the furnace and the septic system, replace leaking windows, upgrade to double glazing and even weed the flower beds. By doing this, buyers will be reassured that the home that they are paying for isn’t going to present them with any problems in the near future – and looks good as well.
Décor
It can be quite hard for people to overlook loud décor, and it’s the thought of having to totally redecorate can put some people off. While it’s great to give your home some personal touches, you need to appeal to the masses if you’re looking to sell.
Giving walls a fresh lick of neutral coloured paint will make rooms look brighter and allow buyers to see them as more of a blank canvas. Make sure that you de-clutter too! To keep things from looking clinical, decorate rooms with vases of fresh flowers and tasteful photographs and paintings.
Your efforts will be rewarded
While the above advice might sound like a lot of hard work, you’ll be surprised at how little time and effort some of the smaller jobs need. By putting in the work now, you’ll be rewarded when you can demand a higher price for your home. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to whip your property into shape. Your bank balance will certainly thank you for it in the long run!
Martin Gibbon is the Director of Balgores Property, the leading Essex Estate Agents. Martin has been working in the industry since the mid 80’s. When he is not selling properties, Martin enjoys spending time with his wife and children, fishing and supporting West Ham.
