Written By Em

NAEA Propertymark has provided advice for those looking to undertake maintenance in order to add value to their home while stuck indoors.

Mark Hayward, Chief Executive, NAEA Propertymark comments: “While being unable to list your house at the moment may be frustrating, the extra time you’re spending at home makes now a great time to take some simple steps and get your property into its most valuable condition for when the market picks back up.

“When the lockdown lifting is imminent, make sure you turn to your local NAEA Propertymark estate agent who will be able to offer further guidance on how to maximise your chances of a successful sale.”

The following are six tips from NAEA Propertymark to add value to your property:

A fresh coat of paint

If you have some spare paint available or can safely get it delivered, giving your home a fresh lick of paint is a very low cost way to add value. Fresh paint in modern colours can go a long way to giving your home a new lease of life, so do not be afraid to pick up the paintbrush.

Declutter your house

Buyers need to see the space they are getting, to see how good value it is. They want to see the condition of the walls and floor which is difficult when most of it is covered with other people’s belongings. By decluttering your home you are also allowing the buyer to see the space and imagine themselves living in it – you are selling a lifestyle and a dream.

Preen the garden

A well-kept garden really does give your home the ‘wow’ factor. Make sure it’s clear of any litter, you’ve mowed the lawn, removed any weeds, and cut back any overgrown trees which may be restricting light. Plant pots will give your garden a splash of colour, and setting up any outdoor furniture – like table and chairs, a BBQ, sun loungers or even a fire pit – can give future buyers a sense of what it’d be like to own your garden.

Wash all windows

Prospective buyers will pay more attention to windows, and they will immediately give a sense of how well maintained the rest of the house is. If you have easy access give them a thorough wash and if your house has wooden windows, then consider giving them a fresh lick of paint to stop them looking old and cracked. 

A well-kept kitchen is key

The state of a kitchen can make or break a sale, so make sure yours is looking its’ best. Give all the cupboards and surfaces a deep clean and consider painting any old or worn cupboards as this will transform the space without you having to fork out on replacing cabinets or having to wait to hire a handyman. 

Avoid over-personalisation 

Nobody has the exact same taste in décor, and future buyers must be able to visualise themselves living in your space so consider removing any decoration that shows too much personality. Just because something adds character to the property to make it your home, this doesn’t necessarily mean any value is being added to the property’s saleability!