When people talk about increasing the value of their home, they’re usually thinking big and considering things like loft conversions and double-glazing, but if you’re on a budget these things can feel out of reach. However, all is not lost: there are some relatively cheap ways to add value without breaking the bank. Here are some small improvements that will reap big rewards.
Get your insulation up to scratch
Improving your property’s Energy Performance Certificate can increase its value by as much as 14%. By making simple and, in some cases, cheap changes you will not only improve your asking prices but also reduce your energy bills whilst you live there. Suggested changes are installing cavity wall insulation, fitting a lagging jacket on your water tank and upgrading your boiler. Even switching to energy saving light bulbs can make a difference.
Speed up your broadband
A survey by Broadband Genie found that 78% of people would be put off buying or renting a property with slow broadband and 28% would be willing to pay more for a place with faster speeds, so make sure yours is up to scratch. If you’re in a poor reception area, splash out on satellite broadband. It means fitting a dish to the outside of your house, but it’s worth it for the extra value.
Clean the outside render
Research has shown that a whopping 93% of people say they are more likely to attend a viewing if the house’s exterior is well maintained, showing that the phenomenon of good ‘kerb appeal’ makes your house much more attractive. Render cleaning to remove dirt and stains will immediately freshen up your property and add lots of value, at little expense. It’s also worth investing in cleaning pebble dash, as you’ll be surprised at the difference it makes.
Declutter and smarten up
This is the cheapest way to make your property more appealing: all you have to do is buy some cleaning products and put in some elbow grease. Cleaning your home makes it feel friendlier and cosier, and decluttering creates space, making it seem bigger. If you can’t face the cleaning by yourself, hiring a professional company will be worth the minimal outlay.
Install a woodburner
In the past couple of decades fireplaces have made a huge comeback, thanks in part to soaring heating bills and environmentally sound fuels. The warm crackle and glow of burning logs is hugely appealing, and a feature fireplace can add up to 5% to the value of your home. Choose one of the new generation, self-lighting models for maximum wow factor – who wants to get up from the sofa to light the fire, after all?
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