Found a potential new home and considering its resale value?
Various factors affect the popularity of a property, each worth mulling over when you’re comparing your options. Here’s a list to run through.
Curb appeal
Buyers form first impressions from the photos on an online listing or when walking past the property in the street, so consider the curb appeal. Victorian houses are always sought after, along with Georgian and Edwardian builds. Having said that, you can maximise any property’s aesthetic appeal with good design and maintenance. For instance, is there scope for an attractive front garden? Can you improve the pathway or fencing?
Layout
While buyers might favour period charm, they also like properties adapted to modern living. Is there an easy flow from the dining room into the kitchen? Does the kitchen overlook the back garden? If not, how could the downstairs layout be improved?
If in doubt, ask a builder for advice on what’s possible and, of course, a cost estimate. Also, look at any planning restrictions.
Flexibility
The ability to use a room for multiple activities is a major plus. For example, the living room has space for a desk and a sofa bed. The spare bedroom can turn into a home gym. This is especially important in smaller properties where spaces must work hard.
Outdoors, maybe there’s potential for a garden room that serves as both a study and extra accommodation at Christmastime? Again, the right layout can help – open-plan spaces allow for movable partitions, such as bookshelves and rugs, that define areas.
Smart features and green design
People of all ages are interested in smart home technology, including automated lighting, video doorbells and smart thermostats. These add convenience and save energy.
Indeed, sustainability is no longer a niche interest. Home buyers know that energy-efficient features don’t just help look after the environment but also lower heating and other bills. If a property doesn’t already have these, is there scope for solar panels, triple-glazed windows or extra insulation? Such features can improve the property’s official energy rating. People might also value an electric vehicle charge point, or at least the parking space for one.
Storage
In an ideal world, a property is designed with plenty of built-in, versatile storage. Wardrobes, cupboards and shelves make the most of spaces, from sloped ceilings to small corners. Whatever you’re working with, consider features that help maximise spaces, such as:
- Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes
- Furniture that includes hidden storage
- Wall-mounted and floating shelves
- Decorative ladders to reach high cupboards
- Hooks and racks for the hallway
Inevitably, some properties lend themselves to easier storage, including those with high ceilings and open layouts.
Outdoor spaces
Even a small garden or balcony can add value to a property. Look at the orientation of the space – if it’s south-facing – and whether nearby buildings cast shadows. That way, you can figure out a suitable design and mix of plants.
Final thoughts
While there’s no perfect design for a property – every buyer has their own tastes and preferences – certain features help create appeal and therefore value. Look for both long-term functionality and visual attractiveness. And, for advice on all elements of your next move, work with an experienced estate agent.
