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#ad Whether you are looking to increase the value of your property before you put it on the market or want to make improvements to increase its future value there are various improvements you can make.  The great thing is that many will increase your enjoyment of the property at the same time as increasing its value. This post looks at 10 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Property.

Appearance is everything in many cases and there are no truer words when it comes to property.  A shabby, rundown property will not be the nicest to live in for its residents.  Furthermore, it will take longer to sell and won’t give as good a return as a well maintained and updated home.

In this post, we look at areas that can make a house a home and potential help increase its value.

Updating Wiring and Plumbing

Updating wiring is one of the first things that needs to be done in a home and is normally done on purchasing a property due to the disruption and mess it creates after structural changes are completed. New modern sockets are essential and enhance the appearance of rooms so don’t overlook their importance.

Alongside the new wiring comes plumbing.  Old pipes can lead to all sorts of problems and again are one of the first things replaced in home.  A pressurised plumbing system (combination boiler) is normally the best option.  This omits the need for a header tank and also creates more space.  It’ll ensure a suitable pressure for both hot and cold water.

Wooden Flooring

Flooring can really affect the look and feel of a home.  Many remove the worn carpets or depressing old laminate floorings in favour of wooden floors.  They are always a winner and having a solid wood floor can help increase the value of a property up to 10%.  It’s one of the first things we add to any property we convert for rental and one of the reasons we are able to rent out a property quickly and easily.  Everyone loves a stunning, well laid wooden floor, even my kiddies appreciate them.  It gives warmth to a room and a touch of elegance.  They are easier to maintain than carpets and are better for those with allergies.

For those looking for the most durable wooden flooring it’s best to look at the hardwoods such as oak, cherry and maple.  When cared for these will last and look exquisite for an exceptionally long time.  They have the ability to transform a living area into one that is far more sophisticated provided the rest of the home is decorated to the same standard.

True Balconies

Would you believe that by having balconies can increase a property’s value by up to 12%.  Who knew!  Well, those in the property industry will have a good idea of the various additions that can greatly improve value and incorporate them where they can.  A true balcony can be a great addition to a home and creates a superb useable space that can be extremely useful.

A true balcony is one that is spacious and large enough for people to walk on.  It may even be spacious enough to accommodate furniture such as a table and chairs.  It increases useable space and it can be nice to sit outside and sip a glass of wine, nibble on olives and nuts, take in the aromas of the potted flowers you’ve added and let your mind take you somewhere tropical during summer months.

These balconies often had railings but more recently there has been a growing demand for more modern glass balconies.  Glass can look just as nice as railings and can give the appearance of a larger space.

Windows

Having good quality windows not only helps keep your home insulated it also adds value and is essential for every property.  Most will invest in double glazing because as well as keeping the home warm they reduce the amount of sound coming in from the outside world.  Windows are important, the more the merrier in some respects as they allow in natural light which has a positive effect on our wellbeing.

Kitchen

Believed to be the heart of the home by many, the kitchen is one of, if not the most important room in the home.  Although not everyone will agree, it is still a room of great importance and needs to be treated as such. Giving your kitchen a makeover or extending where you have room to do so can make it into an enviable space.  Many modern day kitchens are open plan.  Combining a kitchen and dining room in one, a kitchen diner can be more cost-effective than extending. These tend to be larger than some old style kitchens with room for islands or large tables.  Lighting is important, a bright airy room is far more welcoming than one with poor lighting.  Where budget is limited, even basic updates such as replacing kitchen unit doors, handles, worktops even a repaint can be of value.  The value of a home can be raised up to approx 15% depending on its location.

Bathrooms

A nice bathroom doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.  But, for those that want to spend, the world is your oyster.  Choosing a bathroom suite can be far more cost-effective than buying pieces individually.  Buying during the sales can be even lighter on the pocket.  A simple update may be all that the room requires or a change of flooring, tiling etc.  Adding an en suite bathroom or shower room can be useful and also mean when it comes to selling your property you’ll have plenty of interested buyers.  Keeping the layout as it is will help keep costs down as relocating pipes can be expensive. Budget, work within this, or consider an update at a later date when your finances allow.

Loft Conversions

These are a great way to increase the number of bedrooms especially in built-up cities where there is no room for expansion other than upwards.  Including an ensuite bathroom can add greatly add to the value this will bring.  In fact, this is one of the best ways to increase the value of a home.  It’s important to note that planning permission may be required so check this first. Dormer windows are very popular as they increase the amount of usable space.  They also increase the amount of daylight within the room as do roof windows.

Conservatory

These boost both property size and value are popular with many homeowners that have space.  Who wouldn’t want a room filled with natural light that can be appreciated daily?  This way you can enjoy the outside world without leaving the comfort or warmth of your home. You’ll have a range of glass options available from self cleaning to solar control glass.  Permission is required for conservatories where doors and walls are being removed.

Parking

Having ample parking space is extremely important especially in more populated areas, even more so where there is restricted parking.  Having a drive that can fit one or two cars can boost property value by up to around 10%.  If you have space outside your home in the front it might be an idea to consider converting this into a driveway.  Borders can be retained around the edges packed with shrubs or flowers to improve kerb appeal.

Back Gardens

Gardens can add so much charm to a home. In areas where space is limited, creating an entertaining area alongside the plants and flowers can work incredibly well.  It can also give a sense of a large space.  Some opt for low maintenance gardens which can look just as impressive as those abundant with flowers, shrubs and trees when designed correctly.

Also to Consider

Alongside these enhancements, you’ll need to make sure that all rooms are decorated to a good standard.  Also, don’t forget there is a ceiling value on every road.  It’s best to make sure the costs spent on increasing the size and updating a property do not exceed this.  Overspending means when you decide to sell you won’t see a return on the money you’ve invested in the property.

What would you most like to do to your home to increase its value?

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Written by Melanie Edjourian. Please do not use these pictures without permission x