When you’re preparing your home for sale, it’s tempting to assume that every refurbishment will add value. In reality, upgrades cost a lot and there’s very little chance you’ll recoup the full cost later down the line. The trick is to focus on work that helps buyers see the potential, without sinking your profits.
Adding Large Extensions
Loft conversions and garage conversions can add significant value, but they’re expensive, time-consuming, and it’s easy to go over budget.
A smart alternative: hire an architect to draw up concept plans so buyers can visualise what’s possible. You can also apply for planning permission to prove to buyers that the property will benefit from an extension. This way, you can capitalise on the idea without actually having to put any money down yourself.
If, meanwhile, you believe your property is too small (and thus lacking in refurbishment potential) to compete on the market, but still want to sell for a fair price, you’ll be glad to hear that going to market isn’t your only option. It’s easier than ever to go online and sell house fast with modern services, and most of the time all you need to do is put in your postcode to get a cash offer and completion within seven days. You can avoid the hassle of estate agents, viewings, and property chains. Options like this are especially useful for older homes or homes that require more work than you’re able to put in.
Still, there may yet be upgrades that are well within your means which you might not have thought of yet.
Image source: Pexels
Helpful Design for Me resources
- Thinking about extending? See our architects’ round-up: Home extension ideas – the best from UK residential architects.
- Curious about fees? Read: How much does an architect cost for an extension?
- Planning a loft in future? Try: How to make your loft conversion light and spacious
- Ready to speak to a pro? Here’s how to find an architect/designer for your home.
Decorating and Replacing the Carpet
Getting new carpets installed can be costly, and a lot of the time, a buyer will want to choose their own. If you want to make your home look better, then it’s a good idea for you to deep-clean your existing carpet. This way, you can make your carpets look way better, and at the same time, you don’t have to worry about trying to recoup the money from your investment.
The only time you should look into replacing the carpets in your home is if they are ripped or damaged, as this can be off-putting to buyers. You also don’t need to carry out a full makeover with expensive wallpaper, either. Adding a coat of neutral paint will make your home feel bright and inviting. If you can, avoid painting the ceiling or woodwork, unless it’s looking worse for wear. Most of the time, painting the walls is enough to get more for your home, and extra jobs like this simply add more to your growing list of jobs to do.
Source: Pexels
Other jobs that you should probably leave include updating your light fixtures. You’re probably looking at £15–£20 to replace each light, and although it will make your home look better, you can probably put some brighter bulbs in to get the same effect. Remember, your buyer will be making the home their own when they move in anyway, so you need to make sure that you’re not going over the top on upgrades that are likely to be taken down when your house is sold.
- If your refresh drifts into redecoration, our guide to how to choose an interior designer can help you find the right fit.
Quick checklist before you list
- Declutter and deep-clean (especially floors and grout).
- Neutral walls; touch up scuffs and chips.
- Fix visible defects (loose handles, chipped tiles).
- Boost lighting with higher-lumen bulbs and clean shades.
- Curb appeal: tidy planting; wash the front step and door.
Need tailored advice? Post your brief on Design for Me (free) and we’ll match you with suitable residential architects and interior designers near you. Start here: How to find an architect/designer for your home.
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