Always Consider What Buyers Want
While researching the area where you’re thinking of purchasing a property, it’s essential to find out what sort of people buy homes there: are they professional couples, large families or small families? Are they your or old? This information will steer you in the right direction when it comes to deciding what type of improvements to make. “Well-appointed kitchens bathrooms generally add the most value to a property, but this will ultimately depend on the person wanting to buy it,” developer Peter van Wyk explains. ” For instance, young first-time buyers may put more emphasis on living spaces than on bathrooms and garages, whereas buyers looking for a family home will look for ample parking and good kitchens and bathroom.” When it comes to decorating and choosing finishes and fixtures, play it safe and opt for a neutral look that will have mass appeal. “Putting your own personal stamp on a house can often be the wrong thing to do as your idea o what’s stylish may be very
different to everyone else’s,” says Peter. “Try not to be too distinctive; keep it simple so that potential buyers will be able to picture themselves living in the space and think about how they would make their own mark on it.”
Keep the Budget Under Control
“When renovating for profit, always ask yourself if something is going to add extra value.” says developer Peter van Wyk. “For example, will marble floors make more profit than porcelain tiles? If the answer is no, choose the more cost-effective option.”
Cost-effective does not mean cheap, however. “A cheap toilet, for example, is a liability as the porcelain might not be as strong,” says project manager Wendy Holmes. Besides, the labour involved in terms of plumbing and tiling will be the same
whether you purchase products from the cheapest or the “middle-of-the-road” price bracket.” As bathrooms and kitchens almost always help to see a property, Peter maintains that you shouldn’t skimp on the finishes used in these areas. “If you
can’t afford a whole new kitchen or bathroom, try replace the worktops and vanities.
Transform a Kitchen Into A Drawcard
A stylish, functional kitchen can bump up your home’s resale value. When renovating, follow these tips from Nick Rawlins of House of Kitchens:
– The rule of thumb is to spend 7 – 14 percent of the estimated market value of the renovated house on the new kitchen, especially on items like the work surfaces, units and appliances.
– Today open-plan kitchens sell houses; it may be worth the extra expense and building work required to create one.
A less expensive, practical kitchen will sell better than an over-priced poorly-designed space. Choose a “safe” colour scheme to appeal to as many buyers as possible. Create a scullery / laundry additions; here you can use cheaper, yet hard-wearing materials helping to bring the total cost of the kitchen renovation down.
Tiles are still the best priced option to use both on the floor and the wall behind the hob. It’s not necessary to tile all the kitchen walls; washable paint works just as well.
“An attractive garden will always increase your chances of resale,” says project manager Wendy Holmes. “Every part of a site counts. Even the narrowest side alley can add to the appeal of a property when revamped into a usable space,” says Wendy.
“Where possible, create direct access into the garden or onto a terrace to improve flow and add light,” advises Wendy.
Salvaged parquet floors were added to give this revamped home character. Decor by Shelley Sacranie
It’s Showtime
Cape estate agent Helen Hoare stresses the importance of presenting your renovated house in the best light on show day. Gunge-free bathrooms, clean, shiny windows, a sparkling pool and platters of fruit and vases of fresh flowers will help to secure a sale.
