8 ways to improve your home for you, or for buyers

A well-presented home is not only a joy to live in for the whole family, it is also more appealing to potential buyers. There are several ways you can enhance your home's aesthetics - through renovations, repairs, maintenance, updating the decor and improving indoor/outdoor flow. By improving aesthetics, increasing functionality and eliminating liability, homeowners can raise their property values.

Kerb appeal: First impressions are important in real estate because they have a huge impact on how much money prospective home buyers are willing to pay for a home. Fresh exterior paint, a new garage door, a well presented yard, tidy fences and landscaping can form positive impressions in the mind of buyers. Your family will of course love it.

Kitchen is the key: The kitchen is the hub of the house and the focal point of social gatherings. If you're going to spend money on your home, you'll get no better bang for your buck than in the kitchen. The three biggest features that buyers love are a kitchen island, walk-in pantry, and lots of drawer and cabinet storage. However, you don't have to start from scratch to create a stylish kitchen. Start by swapping out just one item, such as an ungainly looking sink or outdated microwave for shiny new stainless steel models. Even minor upgrades, such as updating light fixtures and hardware, will add value to your home.

Go big on the bathroom: Bathroom updates are always a smart move. If you have enough funds for a full renovation, try adding more square footage to the bathroom. Alternatively, look for ways to create the illusion of more space by adding mirrors or a window. Small changes such as replacing dated wallpaper with a textured finish and replacing old lighting will update the room without denting your wallet.

Enhance decor: A decluttered minimalist home is always better than a house crowded with all sorts of stuff. It will make your house look bright, spacious and inviting. Even small improvements, such as paint colours or furniture placement, can go a long way toward improving the look and feel of your home. If you are remodelling on a budget, DIY is best. Search for remodelling and decorating inspiration in design magazines, books, TV shows and websites.

Optimise storage: Space is a priority for homeowners so look for every possible nook or cranny that can be utilised for extra storage. In smaller homes this is an absolute must. Use your wall space to add storage. You can put spice and storage racks on kitchen walls, cabinet or shelving above the toilet, and extra storage above the washer and dryer. Add mirrored cabinets over the sink. Install shelving or small cabinets to utilise empty corner spaces. Double-duty furniture, underbed drawers, hutches, sideboards, buffets and entertainment stands help increase storage space in our homes.

Hit the deck: In a recent study, nearly a quarter of homeowners said that they wanted more outdoor recreational space such as a deck in their next home. A deck addition gives space for your family and friends to relax, eat, drink and enjoy their time with you, as well as an area for hosts to cook and decorate. It can actually be one of the most cost-effective improvements to your home.

Magic of maintenance: Walk around the home and make a list of all the little things that are broken or in need of repair. Individually, small repairs might not seem important, but if every room has just one thing wrong, it all adds up to create the impression of neglect. If required, hire a handyman. Staying on top of maintenance right now eliminates problems down the road should you decide to sell.

Spend wisely: Not every renovation project you undertake will increase your home's value. Keeping in step with what buyers love and what may increase your resale value can help you decide where to focus.

Talk with a real estate agent about which renovations increase home value, then see which ones can help you enjoy your space the most until you're ready for the market.