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NAEA Propertymark: 10 top home improvement tips to increase the value of your home

Posted on Wednesday, April 3, 2019

Updated on Wednesday, April 3, 2019

1. Redecorating and easy upgrades

Redecorating is the most popular home improvement; for a relatively low cost, you can give your home a lick of paint and do some general upkeep. Fresh paint in modern colours can go a long way to giving your home a new lease of life.

2. Makeover the kitchen

Potential buyers often put a lot of their focus on the look and feel of a kitchen, and it may be the first thing they look to replace if they’re not satisfied with what is already installed. Painting units or replacing cupboard handles or doors are a cost-effective way of giving your kitchen a noticeable refresh without spending too much money.

3. Adding or updating a bathroom

In the bathroom, replacing tiles and re-grouting, eliminating all lime scale and replacing taps are all options worth considering. Bathrooms need to be fresh and clean, so make sure the walls are a neutral shade, and ideally replace a shower curtain with a new one or a simple glass screen. Pinterest is a great platform to find ideas and inspiration.

4. Garden appeal

A tidy and well-designed garden is an attractive selling point for any property. Before any viewings, trim the borders, clear the pathways and cut back any overgrown trees or bushes.

5. Double glaze the windows

Double glazing is an essential for many house hunters; it will keep the home warm and keep the noise out, even if it’s near a main road.

6. Open space

Open living space is hugely popular, particularly for the kitchen and dining room. Combining the two into one large room creates a great sociable space and is perfect for families. However, it’s important to remember that many homeowners still enjoy the ‘front room philosophy’ that can be used for special occasions or for privacy by the adults.

7. Replace doors

The front of your home can say a lot about the rest of the house to viewers seeing it for the first time. By replacing or sprucing up the front door, you will give potential buyers a great first impression.

8. Converting the loft

A loft conversion is a more expensive improvement, yet it offers a great return on investment. Most lofts can be easily converted and expanding the house upwards offers homeowners an extra bedroom for growing families, or space for extra storage.

9. Create a driveway

In some areas of the country, the ability to park close to your front door comes at a huge premium and therefore, if you have the room to add off-street parking, you are sure to increase value.

10. Avoid over-personalisation

Of course, your house should be decorated to your taste, but if you’re considering selling and want it to appeal to a range of buyers then it’s important to avoid anything over-personal, such as bold or bright colours which might be a turn off.