Collaborative Post
Properties are among the few assets that appreciate fast due to their increased demand. However, the marginal increase in value depends on various factors, including age, availability of social amenities and physical state. Since sellers do not have direct control over their age and social amenities, they can improve the property value significantly by doing maintenance. Here are tips on improving property valuation before selling:
Keep it clean
Clean houses are more organised and fetch a higher value in the property market. They also sell faster since buyers can occupy them immediately. Before a potential buyer walks in, sweep any debris or accumulated dust, especially in visible areas. Wipe the glass windows with a soft piece of paper to maintain the glow.
A well-kept garden adds a great aesthetic value to the property. If the property has a lawn, ensure the grass is short, the fence well-trimmed and any dry leaves collected. Such simple tasks improve the property’s appearance, attracting a premium price and faster sales.
Repair any broken items
Prospective buyers do not want a property with broken window panes, kitchen sink or bathroom showers. Before listing, hire a plumber and carpenter to repair and keep everything functional and ready to use. These improvements show preparedness for occupation as the buyer doesn’t need to customise anything. You can also use it to bargain for higher returns.
The kitchen garden and the lawn should also be in tip-top shape. Repair the fence, stairs and any broken or damaged component within and outside the house. It not only improves the appearance but makes the property habitable.
Other items that need repairs are the electrical connections, bulbs, sewerage system, house heating and rails. The aim is to return the house to its original shape. If the property is in a prime location, it takes away any chance the buyer has to renegotiate the price downwards.
Photo by David Pisnoy on Unsplash
Painting
After staying in the house for some time, the original paint wears out, or the walls become dirty. Before listing your property, paint the house to restore its touch. You can use the same colour, or apply a different coat, although it will cost you more. Paint the inside walls, making sure that the thickness is uniform.
If possible, paint the fascia boards, doors and outdoor furniture. Painting transforms the property, giving it a fresh and new look. It appeals to buyers, leading to faster listings and purchases.
Kitchen and bathroom makeover
These two rooms are the most crucial in the house. When you buy a property, these rooms have stands, rails, storage features and other accessories. However, they wear out over time and need a makeover, especially if someone else wants to move in.
You can replace the drainage pipes from the kitchen sink to the main drainage towards the septic tank. Also, consider checking the electric cabling in the kitchen to ensure they are still in good shape. Look into the overhead kitchen cupboard and table drawers to see if the knobs and handles need replacement or painting.
The bathroom also needs a makeover. The first place buyers look is the drainage. Open it and ensure it is free-flowing. Replace the bathroom tiles if you have enough funds. Check if the overhead shower heater is working and replace it if necessary. Repair the slide-in doors on the walk-in closet and keep the drawers and spaces clean.
Redesign the living room
Fully furnished houses require a new touch, especially in the living and bedroom. The curtain should have warm colours, such as white and light yellow, to brighten the room. You can also use block colours such as brown, green and blue to complement the furniture and wall painting.
If you have the finances, you can change the seats in the living and dining room. You can also change the seating arrangement to give more legroom. Alternatively, repair the chairs if there are any breakages.
Fortunately, if you cannot carry out these renovations, you can sell the house the way it is. There are companies who buy houses in any state from owners who need to sell quickly or relocate, regardless of their conditions. The prices are fair, competitive and it takes the shortest time to close the sale.