SPACE
Nowadays, there is no more luxurious commodity
than space. For example, in London, Bristol
and Manchester, where property and land costs
per square metre are very high, homeowners
are looking to make the best use of every centimetre.
Getting more form your space…
- Convert an unused space, for example, the
attic or basement.
Add an extension either out into the garden
or upwards.
- Maximise the space you have by knocking down walls and creating an efficient and useable open-plan space.
- Create an optical illusion by using effective storage solutions. A tidy floor and lack of clutter will give the impression of more space.
Anything that increases the living area will increase value…
Planning Permission
As a home owner, you have the right to alter your home; however you must check whether planning permission is needed. Check this with the planning office at your local council before you carry out any work.
DECORATING
Decorating with the aim to increase the value of your home? If so, there are certain rooms that you should concentrate on.
- The kitchen, seen as the hub of the home, is very important to today’s buyers. Choose a well planned kitchen that makes good use of space and has plenty of storage. If you have the space be sure to add a kitchen table.
- Many buyers are looking for a certain style of living. Offer this by focusing on a relaxing and enjoyable outside space, such as a terrace with a table and chairs, suitable for entertaining.
- If you have the space, an en suite bathroom adds luxury and privacy to the master bedroom. This also frees up the main bathroom for the rest of the household and guests.
*TIP* Consider how the light falls on the garden throughout the day. Perhaps think to locate the terrace where most of the early evening sun is captured.
DETAILING
Prospective buyers that are viewing for a second time are often already interested. It is at this point that the finer details of your home are taken into consideration.
- Keep on top of simple matters such as chipped paintwork and more important issues like damp.
- Well chosen fixtures and fittings for the interior and exterior of the home can make your home more eye-catching. Having a well presented front door, nicely painted and with attractive door furniture will give a good first impression. Perhaps add some flower baskets and foliage around the front windows to add colour.
- New technological gadgetry can be very attractive to buyers. This may include well-planned lighting, state of the art sound systems and contemporary fireplaces.
- Top of the range fridge freezers, washing machines and dryers will create an image of luxury and a lifestyle very appealing to the buyer. But be sure to make them aware what appliances are included in the sale.
- An efficient and reliable security system is also a bonus, as it will ensure peace of mind for the homeowner.
*TIP* Added extras such as a family media room and contemporary focal-point fireplace can create a warm and reassuring atmosphere that buyers will be looking out for.
STAGING
Many buyers are looking for a house that is ready to move straight in to. If you do not need to carry out any major renovations or your budget won’t allow for it, be sure to spend some time making each room look its best.
Walls- a lick of paint in a neutral colour will immediately freshen up a room and make it look clean and smart.
Storage- Store away any unnecessary clutter. Clear floors and surfaces can make a big impact aesthetically on the calmness of a room.
Kitchen- instead of installing a completely new kitchen, you could opt to economically change the cupboard doors and handles. This is an inexpensive way of updating the kitchen and creating an immediate impact. Additionally, try staging your kitchen by being selective about the appliances you have on display. Why not use a large bowl of fruit and a striking flower arrangement to add some spirit to the kitchen.
Bathroom- dirty or discoloured grouting can be a real turn off. Try to rectify this by using a specialist grout cleaner first. If this doesn’t work then re-grouting all the tiles would be a good idea. It will freshen up the walls instantly. Apply the same staging tips to the bathroom as suggested for the kitchen. Hide away mismatched cosmetics and bottles as this will create a cluttered look. Introduce a plant, a stylish selection of towels and two or three strategically placed toiletries. Always keep a window ajar and perhaps use a room freshener. Lastly give the suite and any mirrors and good clean and buff them till they sparkle.