Six ways to add value to your property ready for sale​

Homeowners looking to add value to properties to ensure they are market ready post COVID-19 can look to six tips from home improvement experts to get ready for sale when lockdown is lifted.

With a surge in extra free time during lockdown, homeowners can start thinking about improvements to increase the value of properties when the time comes to sell, and the home improvement experts at Stormclad have compiled a useful list to help.

From increasing energy efficiency, to improving kerb appeal, maximising natural light and scoping out potential home enhancements that you can get started on immediately after restrictions are lifted, the experts have shared six ways to add value to your home, ready for when it goes to market.

John Evans, managing director at Stormclad said: “Making home improvements is one of the easiest and surest ways to add value to a property. This can be anything from essential maintenance repairs, to installing new windows and doors, to creating entirely new spaces through extending and adding new rooms. With many of us finding ourselves with additional free time, now is the perfect opportunity to start making improvements and planning home enhancements to get going with as soon as possible.”

“We’ve put together a list of some of the best home improvements that you can make to add long term value to your property.”

1.Make your home as energy efficient as possible

With energy prices constantly on the rise, an energy efficient home is of great interest to buyers and can mean a huge difference in the value of your home. Many older homes don’t benefit from the same level of insulation as modern homes, so it’s a good idea to look into ways to improve energy efficiency to add value to a property. Start by looking at your windows, they should be double glazed as standard, and other features for increased efficiency include choosing windows that are A+ rated, with a metallic coating which reflects heat back into the room. Panes filled with argon gas also have a 34% lower thermal conductivity to air, keeping in the heat.

2. Maximise space

A single storey extension, like a solid roof conservatory or a glass panelled orangery is a safe way to add value to your home, and can increase the sale value by around 6%*. Extra space can be utilised for a range of purposes, for example; a home office, playroom or dining room.

Conservatories have evolved in recent years – no longer do we see cheap polycarbonate plastic roofs and panelling. Sleek glass roofs and sky lights provide bright, sophisticated extensions which connect the indoors to the outdoors. Often these extensions will not require planning permission, so they can easily be designed and installed.

Currently, installations cannot go ahead right away, but home improvement centres are still operating remotely, so you can still have initial discussions about planning and quotes for extensions.

3. Install a carport

A much cheaper option than a garage, a carport provides a sheltered parking space that is still on the property. Parking is often a key factor for prospective home buyers, so not only will it increase the value of the home, but it will also generate more interest when the time comes to sell.

If you’re unsure if you will have room on your property for a carport, get in touch with a home improvements company who will be able to assess your home free of charge.

4. Open up your living space

To open up homes to the outdoors, letting in natural light is a great way to give the impression of a larger, less restricted space. Installing long glass patio doors such as bifold or sliding doors can modernise your home, connecting it with your garden and bringing a space to life. There are plenty of options available in terms of bifold doors, and the Stormclad team can put together a free no obligation quote with just a few images of your home.

5. Think kerb appeal

Have a gate that doesn’t lock properly, a peeling front door, or a faded fence that is falling down? The aesthetic of your property is so important to consider, especially if you are considering selling in the near future, so consider how to improve your kerb appeal and make the necessary repairs and replacements. A new front door will give your home an instant makeover, and a fresh lick of paint to the exterior walls and fences can really help to ensure a property appears in top form.

6. Find a place for everything

It’s important to ensure that all of your belongings have a place to go to ensure your home is clutter free. This might mean building a few extra storage units inside, or converting an existing space into storage such as your porch or under the stairs.

A home will be of more interest to buyers if you’re thinking of selling, if they can imagine their belongings in place of yours.  Extra storage will also reduce the amount of clutter lying around the property, making your home appear cleaner and more modern.

If you are considering installing any home improvements, then please get in touch with Stormclad at mail@stormclad.co.uk for a free consultation.