Whether it is the family home or a retirement unit, renovating for resale can be tricky, particularly in a highly competitive market.
The good news is that by researching and understanding your target market and with a few small and inexpensive changes, you can transform your property into an attractive proposition for any discerning buyer.
Address obvious wear and tear
Cast a critical eye over your property and make a list of any obvious signs of wear and tear. Repainting the walls in a light, bright colour, can immediately transform a space, as can replacing the carpets. You might even consider removing the carpet all together and replacing it with a low maintenance floorboard, tile or even linoleum – they’ve come a long way since the 1970’s and there are loads of fantastic, stylish, and inexpensive options available.
If you can extend the budget a bit further, old taps, cupboard fronts and handles and doorknobs can easily be replaced with modern and stylish options that can completely change the look and feel of a kitchen, bathroom or laundry.
Let there be light
Light is transformative! Updating light fittings and window treatments to allow more light can immediately make a room feel more inviting and spacious, and more contemporary.
Consider replacing low hanging lights with modern LED downlighting or adding a sleek feature pendant in a living area.
When it comes to window treatments, layering hard window treatments like plantation shutters with soft curtains can be as beautiful as it is functional and adds a genuine design element to a room without breaking the bank.
Freshen up the furnishings
It might seem obvious, but old furniture will make a room feel, well… old. Remove outdated, worn, and damaged furniture and replace it some short-term hire pieces to style your property for sale. It is important to select pieces that make an impact and show a buyer the versatility of space without dominating the entire room.
Style, style, style
If you’ve watched any lifestyle program in the past five to ten years years, you’ll know that a beautifully styled home will sell faster, often garnering a higher price.
Clearing the clutter, adding beautiful cushions, soft throw rugs, new bed linen and a bit of greenery are reasonably inexpensive ways to bring a room to life and add a homely, personal touch.
And remember, any styling or refurbishment must appeal to your target market, so take the time to get to know them and understand what they want.