Buying a fixer-upper can be a great way to get into the property market or to create your dream home on a budget. The key to making it all work? Adding value to the property quickly and efficiently. Whether you're looking to flip the house for a profit or just want to make it more liveable, here are some quick and impactful ways to boost its value without spending a fortune.
Curb Appeal
You only get one shot at a first impression, so make sure your home’s exterior shines. Sprucing up the curb appeal doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive:
- Paint the front door: A fresh pop of colour can instantly transform the front of your house.
- Tidy up the garden: Pull weeds, cut the grass, plant a few low-maintenance flowers, and maybe add some mulch to clean up the garden beds.
- Power wash the exterior: A good pressure wash can make a huge difference in how fresh the house looks.
- Update hardware: Swap out old, rusty house numbers, door handles, or light fixtures for something more modern and stylish.
These simple changes will make your house more inviting and can give an instant value boost.
Focus on the Kitchen and Bathrooms
Kitchens and bathrooms are make-or-break rooms for buyers. You don’t have to gut and remodel these spaces to make them shine—small, targeted upgrades can have a big impact:
- Paint or refinish the cabinets: A coat of paint can make old cabinets look brand new, without the cost of replacement.
- Update hardware and fixtures: Switching outdated knobs, pulls, taps, and light fixtures can give these spaces a quick facelift.
- Install a new backsplash: This is a relatively inexpensive way to add personality and style to a kitchen.
- Brighten up the space: Good lighting is essential, so replace old or dim fixtures with brighter, more modern options.
These updates can make the kitchen and bathrooms feel fresh and modern without draining your wallet.
Fresh Paint Throughout
Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint! Repainting the walls is one of the quickest, easiest ways to make a home look clean and updated. Stick to neutral colours like greys, whites, or light beige, which appeal to a broad range of tastes and make spaces feel bigger and brighter. It’s a simple trick that can dramatically increase the value of a fixer upper.
Upgrade the Flooring
Old, damaged, or outdated flooring can be a major turnoff. If your budget allows, consider upgrading to laminate, vinyl, or refinishing existing hardwood floors. These materials are not only durable but also relatively affordable. If replacing the flooring isn’t in the cards right away, you can still make the floors shine by giving them a good cleaning or hiring a professional to buff and polish them.
Make It More Energy Efficient
More and more buyers are looking for energy-efficient homes, so making a few quick updates in this area can really pay off:
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: New appliances that save energy are a big selling point.
- Seal windows and doors: Sealing up any gaps can help keep the house more energy-efficient and cut down on heating and cooling bills.
- Install a programmable thermostat: It's a small investment but adds modern convenience and energy savings, which buyers love.
Clean and Declutter
Sometimes, the easiest way to add value is simply cleaning and decluttering. A neat, organized space feels more inviting and larger. Give everything a deep clean, from windows to skirting boards, and get rid of unnecessary clutter. A clean home looks better maintained, which will instantly make it more appealing.
Adding value to a fixer-upper doesn’t always mean you have to dive into huge, expensive renovations. Small, thoughtful improvements can go a long way. Focus on things like curb appeal, fresh paint, key upgrades in the kitchen and bathrooms, new flooring, energy efficiency, and a spotless, clutter-free space. With these tips, you can quickly transform a fixer-upper into a more valuable and attractive property, whether you're planning to sell or just enjoy it yourself. To see what fixer-uppers we've got for sale, click here.
