Inexpensive ways to add value to a house

[RenoQueen]

What do you think are the easiest and cheapest ways to add value to a property?

Interested to hear people's opinions. 

[Isobel]

Painting in neutral colours can be an easy way to add value. Can present more of a blank canvas and freshen up something that is looking tired or dated. 

[aly]

Updating walls and flooring can make a huge difference to the appearance of a house alone so i'd start there. Even if it's just a fresh coat of paint or finding nice pieces of art to add character to the room. The kitchen and bathroom are also heavily used areas so any way you can spruce up these areas whilst keeping within your budget would be ideal.

[Joker]

Not always cheap obviously, but if you can find a way to open up the living areas then it can make a huge difference. Eg get rid of a wall between dining and living rooms, or kitchen and living rooms so its all one open space. Nothing worse than a house that feels all pokey with a series of seperate rooms that don't flow. 

[Kermit]

If this is all about selling, then remember that first impressions are really important. So make sure the house has street appeal. A tidy front garden and a reasonably modern exterior. If its red or brown brick, consider painting or rendering. A small investment can make a big difference. 

Here's an example from Cherie Barber:

[Kellie]

Lighting can make a big difference. A dark room can feel really gloomy and uninviting. Adding a bigger window, a skylight or some dramatic lighting can make a huge impact and gave the illusion of space. Even just better window treatments can add great value.  

[Widget]

I've just replaced some solid internal doors with glass door. It's amazing the difference it makes, opens adjoining rooms up and adds more light to the rooms.

[Jason]

Thanks for joining the discussion @Widget. Sounds like a great improvement - well done! Feel free to share a photo if you are able.

Let me also extend a very warm welcome to Workshop. It's great to have you as a member of the community. Looking forward to seeing more of your posts soon. 

Jason

[Alicia]

I would concentrate on cheap and easy ways to update the kitchen and maybe also the bathroom. Kitchens tend to be where most people spend a lot of time socialising and cooking so if you can find ways of making them fresh, light and appealing that should add a lot of value.

[RenoQueen]

Just read this article - http://www.domain.com.au/news/renovating-to-sell-youre-doing-it-wrong-20160715-gq6jsl/

The writer argues that most “experts” say that kitchens and bathrooms are the areas you should pour your money in to. But her view is that the priority should be:

1. Exterior front

2. Kitchen

3. Interior living spaces

4. Exterior living spaces (depending on location)

5. Bathrooms and the rest of the house

Basically that first impressions matter, and most time is spent in the kitchen and living spaces so they are what people care about most.