I’m sure we’re not the only ones who are addicted to property shows, not only because of our profession but also because we are all weirdly obsessed with having a nose around other people’s homes!
Which brings me to Channel 4’s new show ‘Worst House on the Street’ where brother and sister duo Stuart and Scarlett Douglas, offer their advice on saving cash and adding value, when renovating property!
Each episode follows one property renovation, documenting the highs and lows of each project, but most importantly Stuart and Scarlett are on hand offering some invaluable advice.
So how exactly do you add value? We have watched each episode and collated what we believe to be the most important points, whether you are renovating or looking to achieve the best possible sale price!
So, let’s get to the nitty gritty, what improvements/additions actually add value?
Starting from the outside, its common knowledge first impressions will help with saleability, in fact 2/3 people will pay more for a property with kerb appeal! Scarlett goes on to elaborate that by painting your front door, refreshing your render, and adding greenery such as potted plants, can add 2% to your property’s overall value.
Off Road parking is a feature many of our buyers are asking for, with many households now having at least two cars, parking is super important, and so if you have the opportunity to add a private driveway, should you? Yes – Adding a driveway can add up to 10% to your property’s value.
Moving to the heart of the home, the kitchen, currently costing us on average £8,000 to renovate, but what value does it add? A modern renovation, with a timeless design can add anywhere between 5-10% value. This will of course be dependent on the quality and finish, but some money saving tips were discussed here -
Go directly to the manufacturer – Cutting out the middleman and reducing costs.
Buy off the shelf - handmade, bespoke fitted kitchens look beautiful but when you are on a tight budget, it’s worth shopping around.
Buy display stock – this is a great tip for any area of the house, whether you are looking to purchase a new sink, worktop, or the whole lot, see what your local suppliers have to offer!
Character properties are highly desirable, we are suckers for an original feature, but if your property is slightly lacking, there are some little tips to help add that characterful feel. Log burners have become increasingly popular over the last few years and are perfect to install even when you are missing a chimney breast. Scarlet explains adding one of these to your living room, may increase your property’s value by 5%.
Bi-folding doors, an absolute favourite of ours, can add between 5-10% overall value, but make sure you are choosing a design that fits with your property’s character and aesthetic, you don’t want them sticking out like a sore thumb.
Outdoor space is highly desired, and although many people looking to buy a flat may have accepted they are not likely to own their own garden, those looking to purchase a house see it as a high priority. Stuart explains that a massive 64% of people would walk away from a property that has undesirable outside space. Setting the scene with a BBQ or eating area, refreshing fence panels, and even placing a pergola can all create that wow factor, and do it right and you may just add up to 20% value to your home.
Comments