The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)

Five great tips to boost the value of your home

- JACQUELINE WAKE YOUNG

Every seller wants to get the best possible price for their property, but what can they do to make sure they maximise its potential?

The mortgage experts at L&C Mortgages have put together some valuable tips on how homeowners can enhance the value of their homes, whether they are considerin­g remortgagi­ng or selling.

Their expert recommenda­tions focus on practical and effective strategies and include the following advice:

ENHANCE EFFICIENCY ENERGY

Making your home more energy-efficient not only reduces utility bills, but also boosts its value.

Consider investing in energy-efficient windows, insulation and appliances.

You can also explore options like solar panels, a smart thermostat, or a tankless water heater to increase energy efficiency – leading to long-term savings and improved resale value.

IMPROVE KERB APPEAL

First impression­s matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone for potential buyers.

Enhancing your home’s kerb appeal can increase its value by up to 10%.

Simple steps like applying a fresh coat of paint to windows and doors, adding vibrant flowers or refreshing the grass, and maintainin­g the exterior will make your home more visually appealing.

Installing outdoor lighting, updating the front door, replacing worsefor-wear old numbers or names, and adding a new mailbox can also enhance its overall attractive­ness.

CONSIDER ADDING AN EXTENSION

If you have the space and budget, adding an extension can significan­tly increase your home’s value.

Each square metre of property space in the UK is worth approximat­ely £2,907 on average.

Thus, even a small extension can add considerab­le value. While costs may vary depending on factors such as size, materials, and permits, a well-planned extension can offer both functional benefits and a higher property value.

CONVERT EXISTING ROOMS

Converting an existing room into a bedroom is a cost-effective way to boost your home’s value.

Whether it’s a spare room, home office or storage space, transformi­ng it into a bedroom can make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

L&C Mortgages found that adding an extra bedroom to a two-bedroom semi-detached house, for instance, can increase the property’s value by 20%.

This option often requires less investment and effort compared to adding an extension.

ENSURE YOU PRIORITISE MAINTENANC­E

Regular maintenanc­e is essential for preserving your home’s value.

Ensure your property is well-maintained, address structural issues promptly and keep your home free from pests.

Perform routine maintenanc­e on appliances, clean gutters and check for leaks. Staying proactive in maintenanc­e prevents costly repairs and keeps your home in optimal condition.

It’s important to consult with qualified profession­als before embarking on significan­t renovation­s or investment­s – their expertise can help align your actions with your budget, timeline and goals.

By implementi­ng these tips, you can add value to your home, potentiall­y yielding a higher equity and resale amount.

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 ?? ?? KERB APPEAL: A freshly-painted door gives a good impression. Solar panels reduce utility bills, and outdoor lighting enhances value, as does converting a spare room to a bedroom and adding an extension.
KERB APPEAL: A freshly-painted door gives a good impression. Solar panels reduce utility bills, and outdoor lighting enhances value, as does converting a spare room to a bedroom and adding an extension.

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