Top tips for improving the value of your home before selling

By Jennifer Harrison, Copywriter and Content Creator

This article first appeared in our Content Hub

Before putting your house on the market, you might want to consider what alterations you could make in order to increase your asking price. From redecorating to completely renovating, there are many ways you can add value to your home without ending up out of pocket.

You can add tens of thousands of pounds to the value of your property by making home improvements, but not all alterations are made equal. Some modifications will cost very little, whilst some will be more expensive and the potential added value will differ depending on what changes you make, and the area you live in. We’ve put together a list of just some of the things you might want to consider before putting your house up for sale:?

1) Redecorate?

This is one of the simpler and cheaper ways you can improve the value of your home. A fresh lick of paint can go a long way to elevating the property’s overall aesthetic. Top tip – neutral colours are often more appealing to buyers.??

2) Create off-road parking?

Adding off-street parking can add huge value to your property, particularly in certain areas of the country where parking close to your home can be quite expensive if you don’t have a driveway.??

3) Build an extension?

Although it is one of the more costly home improvements, an extension is also one of the most profitable. Whether it’s a double-storey extension, adding an extra upstairs bedroom and additional downstairs living space, or a more traditional conservatory, take time to consider which type of extension will suit your property best. You should also be mindful that you may need planning permission before building an extension.?

4) Convert the loft, garage, or cellar?

If you’re unable to obtain planning permission for an extension, but still want extra space, a conversion is a great alternative. It’s important to note that, should you wish to convert your loft, you will need to allow room for a staircase up to it. Converting your garage is usually cheaper than converting the loft or cellar and is still a practical way to add space to your home without restricting the space in other rooms.??

5) Improve the building’s energy efficiency?

As well as helping you save money whilst you still live there, a home that is energy efficient will definitely appeal to buyers. Adding elements like double glazing, a new boiler, or wall insulation will allow you to increase your asking price when you’re ready to sell.??

6) Fix any superficial faults?

Though you should never try to cover up major defects – which will likely show on a survey anyway – small flaws, that could be easily fixed, could result in the buyer making a lower offer. Look out for dripping taps, peeling paint, limescale build up, or squeaky floorboards and aim to resolve these issues before any viewings take place.??

7) Spruce up the garden?

Not many people will want to inherit an overgrown mess, so be sure you tidy up the garden ahead of any viewings; a space that seems manageable will appeal to more buyers. Seclusion and privacy is often of high importance to people, so consider adding new fences and/or trees.??

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to increasing the value of your home, as each alteration will yield different results depending on the property and its location. Whilst it is a great idea to consider all the above tips when preparing to sell, it is crucial you don’t take on more than you can pay for, and you should always consider what is best for your specific situation. Head to our Content Hub to read our other blogs centred around homebuyers and sellers alike.???

All information contained on this blog is for general information use only. It does not provide mortgage advice and should not be construed as being mortgage advice, which can be provided by your mortgage broker and advisor only.