Make the most of unused space
Ray Main/Mainstream Images/Design Julia Barnard
Looking for house improvements that will add value? These days, estate agents say that only cosmetic changes outweigh their cost with the value they add to their home. So forget your extension plans – here's what you can do on the cheap...
1. Attack your attic
Rather than chip into your profit, make the most of what you have. Got a loft full of junk? Ship out your rubbish, convert it into an extra bedroom or bathroom and you can add up to 10% to your home’s value. Keep it simple with white walls and exposed floorboards.
2. First impression
Dress your house to impress. Adding some smart planters, like this faux metal Geo box (£54.99) from Crocus, is like donning a chic pair of shoes. Painting your front door will also reap rewards. Check paved drives and paintwork are in a good state as cracks will shout disrepair.
3. Make an entrance
Your hallway sets the tone to your house so it’s important to get it right. A bright accessory like this graphic stone and red Cymbidium wool rug – now £156, was £195 – from Wallace Sacks, will not only win it style points but create a warm and inviting mood. Get advice on How to decorate your hallway.
4. Paint power
A fresh lick of paint goes a long way. Research by mortgage lender Abbey shows that by spending £1,330 on repainting and redecorating you can add an average of £3,557 to your home’s value. But remember that people like to imagine their own taste in a space so use neutral colours. Light hues like Urbaneliving’s eco–friendly Nutshell emulsion (£14.43) make rooms feel bright, fresh and airy.
5. Eco kudos
‘Finishes are important – tatty woodwork screams neglect,’ warns Chris Underhill, of Prickett and Ellis Underhill Estate Agents. Why not impress buyers with your home’s eco credentials and install bamboo flooring (£30.49) from Urbaneliving. Or invest in wood flooring – avoiding cheap laminates which won’t fool savvy buyers.
6. Mirror, mirror...
Make small rooms feel larger and brighter with a strategically placed mirror – the bigger the better. Place this Venetian style mirror (£199) from Graham & Green opposite a window to maximise light. Read our Buyer's guide to mirrors and Shop our selection of over 2000 mirrors.
7. Cupboard love
A high-quality kitchen can be a real asset. If yours is tired, save money on the carcasses – these aren’t really seen and if they’re professionally fitted they don’t need to be expensive. Splash out instead on good quality finishes like this Sonoma worktop (£199) from Marks & Spencer and really superior doors.
8. A little history
Buyers love period features so keep them happy by replacing lost architectural details. Think stone fireplaces and ceiling cornices for an instant heritage boost. But do your research – be sure to match the period of your home with details from the same era. We love this elegant carved limestone fireplace (£350) from Ebay.
9. Splash of colour
While walls are best kept neutral, you don't want your home to look bland. Inject some life with a few brightly coloured accessories, like this golden yellow cushion (£30) from Not on the High Street and replace shabby lampshades with some jazzy new ones. At least these are things you can take with you.
10. Garden glories
‘Creative garden ideas, rockeries and extravagant planting can put buyers off,’ says Clive Buckland of the National Association of Estate Agents. ‘They create more work for the buyer.’ Fruit trees are a simple way to add impact. This olive tree – now £24.95, was £49.95 – from Crocus looks great against a wall or by a door. For more garden tips, read our guide to making your garden sell your home.
Want more easy style tips? Find out how to do beautiful on a budget.
For more buying and selling advice, visit our property section.
Annie Deakin is a journalist, fashion and furniture expert and editor at mydeco.com and is currently very impressed by the great range of
dining chairs,
paint and
beds.
