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7 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home

Posted on Wednesday, December 5, 2018

If you’re thinking about selling your home you’ll want to generate the best possible price for it. The most effective way to do this is to make improvements to your property; but not all improvements are created equal and some will be more profitable than others.

Here’s a list of the best ways to boost the value of your home, while making as much return on investment as possible.

7 Ways to Enhance Your Home’s Value

Add an extra bathroom

If you’ve got the room for it, adding another bathroom, shower-room or even a tiny cloakroom can seriously raise the value of your property. It doesn’t have to be huge; in fact, many people simply add an en-suite in their master bedroom, which doesn’t take up too much space. Expect to pay around £4,000 on average but anticipate gaining an extra £10,000 on your home’s asking price.

Convert your attic / basement

It’s an obvious suggestion, but it really does make a difference. A clever loft or basement conversation (or even a garage) adds an extra bedroom or living area to your home, and experts believe it can send your property’s value soaring by as much as 15% to 30%.

Bring back the period features

Buyers go crazy for original features, but don’t worry if your house hasn’t got them, as they’re easy to reinstall. If you’ve got a Victorian or Edwardian terrace, for example, pay a visit to your local reclamation yard or search online for vintage fireplaces, tiling and ceiling roses. If you’re able to put them in yourself, you’ll save even more money and maximise your profit further.

Extend the kitchen

Narrow galley kitchens can be a turn-off for buyers. If possible, extend out to the side or the back of the property, creating a more spacious kitchen/diner. You’ll have to be aware of planning restrictions but providing you stick to the rules, it’s an excellent way to make more money when you sell your house.

Update the kitchen / bathroom

Dated kitchens and bathrooms can affect the value of your property. Even replacing your 1980’s bathroom suite with a cheap and cheerful modern version can make a huge difference, and the same applies for the units in your kitchen.

Get painting

You’d be amazed at the difference a lick of paint makes. Freshen up your paintwork (stick to neutral, light tones if you’re unsure which shades to choose), as this will immediately make your house look lighter and brighter. Believe it or not, some experts believe that this can increase the value of your home by as much as £7000-£8000.

Focus on the front

Your front door and garden are the first things a prospective buyer will look at, and if they don’t look appealing this could have an adverse impact on the amount they’re willing to pay. If necessary paint or replace your front door and update the knocker, external light and any other items in the vicinity. It goes without saying that it’s vital to weed, prune and tidy the front garden too.