11 Affordable ideas to add value to your home

Are you looking for cost-effective ways to add value to your home? Would you like to increase your potential selling price or valuation without spending the earth?

When it comes to renovating, costs can spiral out of control if you are not careful. So this list has been prepared with frugal-ness top of mind.

You might think some of these suggestions are obvious, but you would be surprised how many homes go to market without these simple changes. And while many might seem like small changes, they all add up to create a positive first impression for potential buyers.

1. Carpet your garage.

Nothing screams modern luxury like a carpeted garage! This is how you turn a cold, concrete garage into a multi-purpose gym or playroom. Installing carpet in your garage is a great way to modernise your home without blowing the budget.

2. Curtains that reach the floor.

Another modernising touch that makes a room feel warm and inviting. Stop those draughts and warm the hearts of potential buyers while you’re at it. Curtains come in standard sizes from shops like the Warehouse and are designed to fit around most window frames. Choose light, neutral tones and avoid loud patterns.

3. Add a heater to the bathroom.

A wall-mounted heater is only a few hundred dollars to install but feels luxurious, especially in the cold winter months.

4. A filter tap in the kitchen.

In this health-conscious age, little touches like installing a filter on your main kitchen tap can help buyers fall in love with your home that little bit more. It all helps. Sell the ease and comfort (and the health benefits) of living in your home.

5. Wardrobe shelving

I have never heard a buyer complain that a home had ‘too much storage’. Old wardrobes are often full of wasted space. Especially ‘hot water cupboard’ or hallway type wardrobes. You can proactively solve this issue for your potential buyers and add value in the process by installing smart shelving that makes the most of the space available.

6. Outdoor storage.

Garden sheds are an affordable way to add a large amount of easy-access storage. As stated above, you can’t have too much!

7. New shower head in your bathroom.

Shower heads are a cost-effective way to lift the feel of your bathroom. They usually aren’t that hard to change over. Smart buyers will test the shower during open homes. What will they think when they try yours?

8. New handles on kitchen cupboards.

An inexpensive way to modernise your kitchen. Most cupboard handles are a standard size, which means you can find modern versions to fit your space in any major hardware store. In most cases, all you need is a screwdriver to change them over.

9. New toilet seat

Simple fix? Sure is. But you would be surprised how often this is overlooked.

10. New doormats

First impressions count! Don’t skimp on the small details. What do your potential buyers look at while they take off their shoes outside your home? What do they all have to step on before they come inside?

11. Wash driveways and paths.

Sometimes, all that is required to make a massive difference to the presentation of your property is a good, thorough house wash. When these are done professionally, they can cost a bit more than you might think, but they are worth every penny. Be sure to also wash gutters, paths and driveways too.

Taking care of the small details sends a positive message to potential buyers, telling them this is a well-cared-for home. This instils confidence and can help you generate more interest and more offers, leading to a faster sale at the best possible price.

Thinking of making a move?

We assist our clients the entire way through the process, from deciding which pre-sale renovations will add the most value, right through to moving day. If you are thinking of selling in the next 3 – 9 months, get in touch today to book a consultation. We would love to help.