October, 2018
As a seller, you want to do all that you can to attract potential buyers to your property. This can be achieved in a number of ways, but there are specific areas where you can focus your efforts.
While larger projects (such as converting a garage or adding a conservatory) may reap some high rewards, general sprucing up and cleaning can make a significant difference as well.
Here at Oscar James, we outline some of the small home improvements which can add value to your property and could increase your chances of selling your home quickly.
Redecorating and small fixes
Redecorating is one of the most – if not the most – popular forms of home improvement. Giving your walls a fresh lick of paint and general maintenance is simple and comes at a very low cost, so it’s a good place to start.
Fresh paint in modern colours can brighten the home and give your property a new lease of life. Consider ivory, cream or beige – all colours that offer a neutral backdrop.
It’s also advisable to fix all defects in the home. Small problems can create an impression of a home being rundown or unkempt, such as squeaky floors, mouldy sealant, limescale, broken lightbulbs etc. Be sure to check for any signs of damp, as well, as it will show up on a survey and is likely to cause you problems later on down the line.
Declutter – but don’t depersonalise
Buyers viewing your home need to be able to visualise what the property would look like if they were living there. This could prove difficult if your home is cluttered.
You want to make it easy for them to see the beauty of your living space, so get rid of all the excess items that have accumulated over time. You also want to consider removing any bulky furniture that makes the room feel cramped and replacing it with something smaller.
However, you don’t want your property to look like a bland, generic hotel, so leave some personality in the space. People often tend to buy into a lifestyle as well as a property, so be sure to show them the attractive side of your way of life.
Spruce up the kitchen and bathroom
Often considered as two of the most important rooms in a home, kitchens and bathrooms are two of the first things buyers look to replace or improve if they can’t imagine living in yours. This doesn’t mean you must buy a brand-new kitchen and bathroom, though. Luckily, there are small ways to improve what you already have.
In the kitchen, painting units or replacing cupboard handles or doors are all cost-effective ways to refresh the room. You also want to make sure it is clutter-free, has clean surfaces and good lighting – all of which can make a huge difference to its general feel.
Similarly, you want to make sure the bathroom is fresh and hygienic in order to entice buyers. This could mean re-grouting, eliminating limescale, and cleaning or replacing taps. Even painting the walls a natural shade and replacing the shower curtain with a new one or a glass screen can transform the space entirely.
Boost your garden appeal
As gardens are another key feature for many prospective buyers, an attractive, well-designed and tidy one can add a great deal of value to a property. It’s essential to tame your lawn, clear pathways and cut any overgrown trees, hedges or bushes.
The garden should feel like an extra space for entertaining or relaxing purposes (or a haven for the children) rather than an expanse of grass.
Consider an area of decking to give buyers a sense of having a bigger usable living space. Additionally, you could invest in a few potted plants to bring some vibrancy and colour to the garden.
Sometimes a little can go a long way when leaving a lasting impression on potential buyers. By making these small fixes, you could boost the appeal of your property and improve your chances of selling at an attractive price.
If you would like any guidance on selling a property in Northampton, Kettering and Burton Latimer, please contact us.
To see how much your home could be worth on the current market, you can also book a valuation here.
