How to add value to your property.

If you’re getting ready to sell your property, there are a number of well-known quick fixes that will enhance its value and give you a better chance of selling quickly—and for the asking price.

Common advice includes giving rooms and woodwork a lick of fresh paint in a neutral colour, decluttering the rooms to make them look larger, and tidying the garden and adding flowering plants to add colour and so-called ‘kerb appeal’.

While these steps are relatively cheap and easy to achieve, if you’re looking for more substantial and lasting ways to increase your property’s value and have the time and money to invest in it, then exploring ways to add value to your home through building improvements will pay dividends in the long run.

Long-term fixes

If you see your property as more of an investment than a home, then you’ll always be looking for ways of adding value in preparation for selling it. It has been calculated that if you’re prepared to undertake the building work needed, you could add 30% value with a cellar conversion, 15% with a loft conversion, 15% with a kitchen extension, 10% by adding a conservatory and 10% if you get planning permission for future improvements.

Big home improvements will also add value to your property – the more work you’re prepared to undertake yourself, the more desirable the property will be to buyers. This includes fixing any structural issues such as rising damp, subsidence, problems with the roof, cracks in the walls, etc.

Rewiring work will also add value, and if you’re going to do this, it’s also a good idea to add more socket points. More and more people are using technology to create smart homes, so even if you’re not planning to do that, this is a good time to make sure you fit everything that’s needed so the buyers can make it happen quickly and easily.

Temperature is a big consideration, and anything you can do to keep the property warm and insulated will add value. If your property is old, it’s more likely to be draughty, so make sure the loft and walls are properly insulated, there is adequate double glazing – or even replace the windows – and any draughts are sealed.

It may be worth considering replacing the entire heating system by installing a new boiler and heat efficient radiators. Fitting designer radiators that enhance the aesthetics of each room will add even more value.