How to Improve the Value of Your Home
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May 2018
Your home is likely to be the largest investment you’ve made in life thus far and when it comes time to sell and move, you should aim to get the best price you can. Whether you’re in a small inner-city apartment or have acreage in the countryside, there are always things you can do to help increase the value of your home.
As the real estate market is generally highly competitive with potential buyers viewing several homes in your neighbourhood, you’ll want yours to stand out, be fully functional, aesthetically pleasing. Taking the time and money improve and clean your home can not only increase the value but make it easier to sell.
The options you have depend on factors such as your budget, the cost versus return benefit, time you have available and your property type, among other things. Often, the little things mean a lot when it comes to selling your home and it’s a good idea to plan out your approach.
Map Out a Value Plan
Firstly, review the market including the sales trends, time on market, value fluctuations and general demand to identify the sales potential. Follow this up by analysing similar properties and their condition to gauge what impact a renovation or enhancement may bring.
After reviewing these details, allocate a budget and the length of time you have at your disposal to help you identify the best approach for you.
The next step is to identify what help you need from experts such as interior designers or tradesmen. Are you going to enlist their help or roll up your sleeves and do it yourself?
We’ve outlined some tips for you to consider.
Renovate
A renovation can mean many things, so focus on only what will help you reach your goal and ensure it’s in line with your plan. Renovation options can include:
- Painting internal walls.
- Replacing carpets.
- Polishing floorboards.
- Remodelling the kitchen or bathroom/
- External painting or rendering.
- Fixing issues with doors, windows, stairs.
Extend
Increasing the size of your home can have a significant impact on its value. It’s often costly however depending on your budget and the increased value potential, it may well pay off. Extensions may include:
- New bedrooms
- Adding a bathroom or toilet
- Adding a new living area
- Increasing the size of an existing room
- Adding a second storey.
- Adding a new outdoor patio or deck.
Declutter
First impressions are powerful, and a cluttered house can make a home look smaller and less attractive. Sort through your possessions and furniture and remove what you don’t need. It will open up space, light and you’ll get the therapeutic benefit of downsizing your belongings as well!
Clean Your Home
It might sound obvious however overall cleanliness, is one of the biggest factors to consider when selling a home. Take the time to carefully clean all surfaces including floors, walls, furniture, windows, mirrors and appliances. And don’t forget to dust!
Keep curtains and blinds open, cupboards close, toilet seats lowered and ensure everything is neat and tidy.
Landscaping or Gardening
The outside of your house is going to be the first impression someone has as they drive or walk up to view. Consider the following:
- Prune shrubs and trees.
- Mow your lawns or add turf.
- Rake up any leaves and debris.
- Add plants or new mulch as required in garden beds.
- Add paths, water features, walls or stairs.
- Consider exterior lighting.
Pay Attention to Small Details
Walk through your home and visualise it from a buyer’s perspective. Consider things such as:
- Replace white fluorescent lights with warmer options.
- Replace entry mats.
- Remove ornaments and personal photographs.
- Add plants or complimentary wall hangings.
Invest in Great Photography
The photos that will end up being included in your advertising play a critical role in attracting the attention of prospective buyers. If the photos don’t show of your home in an ideal way, it may quickly get ignored meaning your opportunity to sell will be diminished. Investing in great photography will help ensure you drive that all important initial interest.
There are a wide range of options and things for you to consider. So, take the time to consider what’s best for you. If you’re unsure, seek professional advice from a real estate agent or property advisor. They’ll be able to discuss your unique situation and advise on the best options available.
Expert Australian Relocation Services in Melbourne
Hopefully after all that planning, cleaning and preparation, your home will sell in no time and then it’ll be time to call in some removalists in Melbourne. Whether you’re moving locally, require an interstate removal service or need an international relocation services, John Ryan Removals are here to help.
With over 40 years’ experience, John Ryan Removal’s friendly team can assist with a range of tasks to make sure you moving day is stress free. From packing and unpacking, cleaning, short and long term storage as well as insurance and vehicle transportation, John Ryan Removals are your one stop shop for all things relocations - Melbourne's leading furniture removalists.