Raising the funds needed to move to a larger property can be challenging. One of the most effective ways to make up any budgetary shortfall is to optimise the market value of your existing home. This usually entails a few well-placed DIY improvements and investments to modernise the property, make the most of the available space and increase kerb appeal.
Are you looking for inspiration on how to best utilise your budget and command a higher asking price from prospective buyers? We’ve put together a list of 10 of our favourite value-boosting projects to help you take the next exciting step on the property ladder. Ready to get started? Then, let’s begin …
Apply for Planning Permission
No matter whether or not you’re planning any projects requiring planning permission, it’s well worth applying for it. After all, simply having the relevant papers available will give any potential buyers the peace of mind that should they ever wish to extend the property, they won’t need to worry about getting permission.
Replace Your Windows
Tired, worn windows can make any property appear drab and dated. Hiring a trusted window company to replace them could make a world of difference and take years off the perceived age of your home. What’s more, modern windows are more energy-efficient than their predecessors, allowing you and your home’s future owners to save on energy bills!
Today’s leading window companies offer customers an extensive choice when it comes to style and design options, along with flexible finance, allowing you to cover the cost over time if necessary.
Deal with Any Structural Issues
Although not the most ‘fun’ project on our list, apprehending any structural issues is arguably one of the most important considerations when putting your house on the market. If you are struggling with problems such as a leaky roof, rising damp or missing roof tiles, you should hire an experienced builder or structural engineer to rectify them.
Few homebuyers want to inherit a project, so, if there are any structural concerns, your efforts are better placed towards resolving them, rather than focusing on expensive cosmetic improvements.
Use Mirrors for a Lighter, More Spacious-looking Home
Just a few cleverly-placed mirrors can lead to the perception of a more spacious home. Hang them near windows and can you also take full advantage of the available sunlight – and save on your electricity bills to boot. And, if you’re fortunate enough to be surrounded by scenic countryside views, be sure to hang a mirror or two in spots where they can be appreciated indoors.
Create More Space with Under Stair Storage
If your home features a staircase, you should take full advantage of its hidden storage possibilities! Having under stair drawers, shelves or cupboards installed is a great way to optimise the space in your home.
Now your staircase area can be used to store any shoes, toys, books, coats – or just about anything, making your home appear less cluttered and more spacious. Under stair storage can be installed for a modest investment and is an attractive selling point for any buyers looking for a hassle-free living space.
Put on Your Gardening Gloves …
Gardens always feature highly on the wish lists of prospective homebuyers. However, a garden that already looks fantastic is an even bigger selling point! It’s time to cut and manicure your lawn, nurture the flower beds and re-paint your shed, if it’s starting to show its age!
Decluttering your garden can also make a big difference. Get rid of that rusting bike that’s been propping up against the wall for years, along with any other debris before you invite any viewers.
Add a Garden Office Space
In 2021, garden offices are highly sought after by modern professionals. Indeed, a smart, garden-office space could really pique the interest of any home-working viewers. This is a considered investment (a newly-built garden office could set you back £5,000-20,000). However, if you spend wisely, you can recoup this cost in the sale of your home. A separate garden office can provide a valuable sanctuary from a lively family home – and a space where professionals can work without distractions.
Have a Clear-out
This next project costs next to nothing and yet it can make the biggest difference of all, if you’re prepared to roll your sleeves up and put the effort in. If you really want to impress, it’s time to de-clutter!
Stock up on bin bags and bag up anything that’s no longer of use or value. You’ll probably be surprised by just how much junk you’ve accumulated over the years. And, if you happen to stumble across any hidden treasures, these can be sold on to give your budget a much-needed boost!
Once you’ve purged your home of any unwanted clutter, we think you (and your viewers) will be impressed by how clean and spacious the property looks.
Refurbish Your Bathroom
When it comes to renovating your bathroom, you don’t necessarily need to go overboard with an all-new luxury suite. In fact, focusing on a few small improvements, such as regrouting old tiles, fitting a new set of blinds or taps can really make all the difference.
With that said, if your bathroom has any features that put in a ‘time warp’ (think lime green basins, fluffy carpeting and burnt-orange tiling), you should think about replacing them with something neutral and modern.
Replace Your Front Door
Is your front door starting to look a bit lacklustre? Having it replaced with something more modern and durable will help to create a favourable first impression among any viewers. When choosing a front door, consider which styles would best complement the style and decor of your home. Remember, you can always ask your local window and door fitter for an expert opinion.
Thanks for Reading and Good Luck!
We hope you enjoyed our article and now have plenty of ideas on how to increase your home’s market value. No matter what you decide on, we wish you the very best of luck with your future home improvement endeavours.
