Written by Cara Fitzgerald | 7 April 2024
When it comes to renovating, even the smallest ta-das can leave a big and lasting impression. From the moment a potential buyer pulls up outside, the little details they notice can greatly influence how much they think your house is worth. So instead of ‘going the whole hog’, consider these minor yet powerful upgrades to increase your home value.
Increase your home value with these enhancements
Replace light switches and power point cover plates
A small detail that is commonly overlooked is the cover plates on your light switches and power points. If the plastic on them is looking a bit grubby or yellowed and there’s dirt in the grooves, then run (don’t walk) to the hardware to replace them. There are a number of different finishes to choose from to suit your colour scheme, including white, chrome, brass and black.
Update handles and knobs
Door handles and cabinet knobs are in no way insignificant when it comes to easy ways to modernise your home’s appearance. Choose contemporary handles to replace outdated ones and give your cabinets and doors a fresh look.
Swap out the bathroom hardware
If your towel rails, toilet paper holders, and shower curtain rods have some spots of corrosion or have just seen better days, consider replacing them for an inexpensive and updated look. Replacing old, inefficient showerheads with functional, water-saving models will also rate highly. Bathrooms are unquestionably a place where buyers are looking at the finer details and favouring clean and cohesive finishes across your hardware choices.
Install some new light fixtures
Replacing outdated light fixtures can instantly create a big impact that adds to the feel of your home. Select statement pieces that are on trend or classically timeless to add that wow factor to your living spaces. Go for pendant lights over your kitchen island bench and also your dining table, and opt for energy-efficient LED bulbs where possible.
Hang some mirrors
Strategically placing mirrors around your home can make your rooms appear larger and brighter. Mirrors reflect light and visually expand your spaces to create the illusion of a bigger home – and they’re often a fraction of the price of good artwork!
Modernise curtains and blinds
Updating your window coverings can dramatically alter the aesthetic of your home. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to determine the needs of each room. Are you lacking privacy from your neighbours? Do you need to add a layer of insultation from the afternoon sun? Do you want a dark and moody atmosphere in the media room? Are you aiming to create a casual coastal look? Great window treatments will add style, functionality and are an essential investment that’s wise not to overlook.
Pressure wash the driveway
A clean driveway gives the impression of a well-maintained property. For little more than a few hours of your time, washing away the black grime will make a huge difference to your home’s immediate street appeal… and tell me pressure washing is not addictive!
Paint the fence
A fresh coat of paint on your fences can transform your outdoor spaces. If you don’t have the time or budget to do them all, then definitely paint the front fence to enhance your home’s first impression. Choose a colour that complements your home’s exterior and landscaping.
Paint the front door
Before you put the paint brush away, a fresh coat of paint in a bold colour or a classic neutral can breathe new life into your home’s entrance and make a such statement. Your front door is a focal point of your home’s exterior and can significantly impact its overall appearance.
Add a new letterbox
Like the front fence and driveway, your letterbox is one of the first things people see when approaching your home. If it’s on a lean, rusted, or just a bit worse for wear, upgrading your letterbox can have an instant impact.
Spruce up the garden
Simple landscaping touches, such as mowing, whipper snipping, trimming hedges and mulching garden beds, can enhance your home’s appeal and create such a welcome. To finish off, add potted plants to frame your front door and a new door mat for some extra zing.
Enhance outdoor lighting
Adding outdoor lighting along pathways, around landscaping features, and on the exterior of your home can improve safety and security, which ticks a lot of boxes for potential home buyers. Choose energy-efficient LED or solar options and consider incorporating smart lighting controls for added convenience.
Create a home office nook
If your home doesn’t have a separate room to spare, you can create a functional home office nook by adding a desk, chair, and some clever storage solutions in an underutilised space. With more people working remotely, a dedicated workspace is highly desirable and sounds great on the marketing brochure!
If you have home improvements in mind, these little upgrades often have a big impact and can be a great way to add value without overcapitalising. While major renovations can certainly add value, it’s often the little things that count.
Whether you’re looking to renovate your home to enjoy, or you have resale purposes in mind, knowing how much to spend can be difficult – the key is knowing what works for your particular home and location. A little help from our team at @ap-realty can be invaluable when it comes to gaining the local knowledge and confidence to know whether your planned renovations will deliver an increase in your property’s worth.
Rated the number 1 agency in the suburb 9 years in a row, our team at @ap-realty is here to help!
