Cheap ways to add value to your home
If you’re thinking about selling your home, you’re probably already wondering how much your property is worth. Whatever that figure may be, the chances are that by making some small, cost-effective improvements now, you could increase the value of your home and maximise your selling price when the time comes to list your property.
We know that selling your home isn’t an overnight decision, so if you think you might want to take the plunge in the next few months, now is an ideal time to consider making some small, cheap and easy changes that could add value.
Read on for our top tips on easy and cheap ways to add value to your home.
How to add value to your home before selling
First impressions are crucial and with a little bit of effort, attention and forward planning a seller can turn their house or flat into an irresistible and desirable home for any purchaser and maximise their price.
1. Think about kerb appeal
When selling your property, first impressions count. Decluttering and cleaning your property are essential when putting it on the market, but the exterior is often overlooked. Whether it's the front garden or a communal stairwell, it's crucial to consider what buyers see as they approach your property. Repainting the front door in a stylish and welcoming colour can create a fantastic first impression for both the surveyor and prospective buyers.
2. Freshen up your grouting
Dirty grout in kitchens and bathrooms is an easily overlooked detail if you've been living in your home for a while. However, potential buyers tend to notice it right away. The good news is that it's quick, inexpensive, and easy to clean. A surveyor will note that worn sealant can lead to water spillage, which can cause rot or damp behind the shower tray or bath panels, which can put buyers on edge.
3. Give your kitchen a quick makeover
As one of the standout rooms in a property, it's essential to ensure that your kitchen looks its best. Declutter all surfaces, give tired looking cabinets a freshen up with a lick of paint, fix broken or worn-down handles and thoroughly clean the flooring. Instantly, your kitchen will appear newer and more appealing, potentially increasing the overall value of your property.
4. Highlight a sunny spot in your garden
South-facing gardens are often considered the most desirable, but not every home is fortunate enough to have one. If your garden faces a different direction, you can still enhance its appeal by focusing on the areas that receive the most sunlight throughout the day. Highlight these sunny spots with furniture, fairy lights, and plants to showcase your garden as a valuable outdoor asset, regardless of its orientation.
5. Make eco-friendly improvements
More and more buyers are looking for environmentally friendly homes to help with the climate crisis (and the bills), and the rating your home receives on its EPC certificate can certainly impact its valuation. Making as many eco-friendly changes as possible in your home can make all the difference when it comes to selling. Try switching lightbulbs for smart LED lighting and improve insulation where you can - you don’t need to install expensive solar panels or electric car charging points to make your home more appealing, but every little helps.
6. Make it bright and beautiful
Give your house a spring clean and make it sparkle! This is one area where serious attention to detail is crucial: Wash windows inside and out, clean away cobwebs, dust the skirting boards, polish chrome taps and mirrors, clean out the fridge and deodorise it, clean-up tile grout and hang up fresh towels in the kitchen and bathroom.
Looking for more advice when selling your home?
If you are ready to sell your property, we can help you through each stage of the process. From getting your property valued and appointing a solicitor estate agent to looking at mortgage options and preparing your home for sale, ESPC is ready to help. Begin your journey of selling your property in Scotland with confidence. Request a free home valuation today and let ESPC assist you every step of the way.