Home improvements on a budget that can add value to your property before selling or letting.

Are you planning to sell or let your property in Salford, Swinton, Eccles or Greater Manchester? Before you decide to go on the market, it’s worthwhile considering ways to make your property stand out and attract the best possible price. 

While major renovations can be costly, there are several budget-friendly home improvements that can significantly increase the value of your property and attract more potential buyers or tenants. This is particularly relevant given the pressures caused by the continuous cost of living crisis. In this blog, we’ll explore smart and cost-effective ways to enhance your home before going on the market. 

1. Curb appeal makeover

It’s a cliche, but honestly, first impressions are crucial and the outside of your property sets the tone for what potential buyers or tenants can expect inside. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to break the bank. Simple tasks like repainting the front door, trimming overgrown bushes, and adding colourful potted plants can instantly boost the visual appeal. If you want to go further, and have the budget, consider giving your house a fresh coat of paint to make it look more inviting and well-maintained. 

2. Kitchen upgrades

The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home and is a focal point for buyers and tenants alike. While a full kitchen refurb can be costly, there are budget-friendly alternatives that can make a significant difference. Replacing old cabinet handles, updating the backsplash, or repainting the cabinets can give the kitchen a modern and refreshed look. Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances, which not only appeal to potential buyers and tenants but can also help save on utility bills. Given the rising cost of energy, this is something that both buyers and tenants will be on the lookout for. 

3. Bathroom refresh

Similar to the kitchen, updating the bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank. Replacing outdated fixtures, such as showerheads and light fixtures, can instantly elevate the look and feel of the bathroom. Adding a fresh coat of paint and some new accessories like a stylish mirror or towel rail can also create a more inviting, modern appeal to your bathroom.

4. Energy efficiency improvements

Energy-efficient features are increasingly sought after by buyers and tenants who want to save money on their monthly outgoings, and reduce the environmental impact of their living choices. Simple changes like replacing traditional light bulbs with LED ones, adding draft proofing to windows and doors and installing loft insulation can make your property more energy-efficient, and thereby more appealing. 

Not forgetting that there are legal implications around energy efficiency too. All properties in the UK have to advertise their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating when going on the market to sell or let.  In 2018, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came into force. This required all properties being let or sold in England and Wales to have a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ or above. Following a consultation in December 2020, the government announced amendments to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards applicable to properties in England and Wales.

Under the new proposals, it is intended that all rental properties must attain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘C’ or higher by 2028. Initially, the plan was to implement these regulations for new tenancies starting from 2025, with a subsequent extension to cover all tenancies by 2028. However, in March 2023, the government revised its stance, setting a uniform deadline of 2028 for all rental properties.

The primary objective of these regulatory changes is to enhance the energy efficiency of homes and reduce carbon emissions, aligning with the government’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. As a leading Manchester letting agent, at Hills we embrace the new regulations and are working closely with our landlords to get their properties ready to conform to much tighter rules around emissions and EPCs. 

5. Increase storage space

Ample storage space is always sought-after in any home. Consider creative ways to maximise storage without major renovations. Installing shelves or built-in cabinets can make a small space more functional and attractive. You can also add storage solutions to wardrobes and cupboards, such as organisers or space-saving hangers, to showcase the full potential of these areas within your property.

6. Fresh coat of paint

One of the most cost-effective ways to give your property a fresh look is by giving interior walls a fresh lick of paint. Choose neutral colours that appeal to a broad range of tastes and preferences, as this will help potential buyers or tenants visualise their own furniture in the property. White and pale colours will also make your rooms look larger than dark paints will.  

7. Improve lighting

Good lighting can make a space feel more inviting and spacious. Maximise natural light by keeping curtains or blinds open during viewings. Additionally, consider upgrading light fixtures or adding floor and table lamps to areas that may be dimly lit. Remember, there’s so much more to lighting than a ceiling light; low-level lights can add real ambiance to a room and create a welcoming feel. 

Conclusion

Preparing your property to sell or let in Salford, Greater Manchester, Swinton, or Eccles doesn’t have to be costly. By focusing on budget-friendly home improvements, you can increase the value of your property and significantly improve its appeal to attract more potential buyers or tenants. More interest means more offers and a better price. From enhancing curb appeal to making energy-efficient upgrades, these small yet impactful changes can make a world of difference in the eyes of potential buyers or tenants. Remember, even the smallest touches can go a long way in helping your property stand out in a competitive market.

If you would like advice on what can best be done in your property, speak to our local estate agent and letting agent teams across Greater Manchester, Salford, Swinton and Eccles. They know exactly what our buyers and tenants are looking for and if improvements will increase the value of your property.

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