IMPROVING
regardless of their style or lack of it. PVCu windows
require very little maintenance, are energy efficient
and, depending on design and installation, can be
very secure. It is often only worth replacing windows
that are either beyond repair or inappropriate in terms
of style, or where they could add more light. Where
windows need replacing, they should be replaced
like for like although it will be necessary for them
to be double-glazed to meet the current building
regulations. If you have heavy window coverings,
replace them with simple shades.
The front door
Since your front door is one of the first things guests
and neighbours see, making your front entrance
magnificent can go a long way in enhancing your
home’s attractiveness and your pride of home
ownership. You might be surprised to learn that the
most prominent feature of a house, the front door, is
the first thing visitors and passers-by notice, you need
to make sure your front door says your property is
amazing and doesn’t let you down.
A splash of paint and more
A fresh coat of pa int can create a magica l
transformation, but have you also thought about
painting old built-in wardrobes? If you are unsure, try
coating any suspect surfaces first with an undercoat.
At the same time, change all the handles on any
built-ins/cabinetry.
New fittings
Bathrooms and kitchens can be expensive to refurbish.
However, imagine how they would look with a simple
makeover of new taps, handles, towel rails and
mirrors. If you have more than one bathroom this can
also add a sense of cohesion. A modern, high pressure
shower head can make a difference between love or
like in the bathroom.
Storage ideas
It’s often overlooked, but when buyers look at a new
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Residential Handbook 2013
home they’re often thinking about where they will put
their favourite items. Kit sheds are a great way to add
storage to a forgotten corner of the yard. Alternatively,
it can be as simple as adding some brackets and shelves
to an existing garage, or think about creating some
safe storage space in the roof if there’s room.
AND THE DON’TS
Gardens
Don’t destroy your garden. Building an extension at
the expense of your garden can actually reduce the
value of your home. Outside space is always desirable
for future buyers - it’s important to get the balance
right.
Losing room
Losing a bedroom in your property, for any reason,
will devalue your house. If you’re considering losing a
bedroom in order to create a bathroom or study, think
again.
Don’t go garish
Garish and ‘unique’ kitchens and bathrooms will
have a detrimental effect on value. Just because you
like lime green walls doesn’t mean your tenants or
prospective buyers will.
Water works
Swimming pools or jacuzzis are unlikely to cover the
installation costs. They will also use a lot of electricity
and can become very expensive to maintain. If you
must have one over the other, a swimming pool is
more likely to appeal to a family than a jacuzzi.
Keep it neutral
Decoration needs to be neutral - just because you love
bright colours and patterns, doesn’t mean prospective
buyers will. Also think twice before wallpapering or
adding permanent decorations to your property, you
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