How to increase your home's value before selling

Anyone wanting to sell their home often wonders whether it pays to invest first. The answer is: sometimes yes, sometimes no. Not every renovation pays for itself. With targeted and smart interventions, though, you often achieve a better price, or sell faster.

Start with an honest valuation

Before spending money, you'll want to know where your home currently stands. A free valuation shows what comparable homes in your neighbourhood fetch and which points buyers consider important. That way you avoid investing in something no buyer will pay extra for.

Small maintenance has a big impact

Small defects give buyers the feeling of deferred maintenance. A loose skirting board, a leaking tap, damaged grouting or discoloured sealant are cheap to fix, but make a real difference to the first impression. Walk through the home with a critical eye, or ask someone else to do so.

A fresh coat of paint

A new layer of paint in light, neutral tones makes rooms look bigger and fresher. Buyers can then more easily picture their own furnishings. It's one of the cheapest ways to make a home more attractive.

Making it more sustainable

Energy efficiency matters increasingly to buyers. A better energy label can lead to lower living costs and sometimes extra borrowing room for the buyer. Think of insulation, double glazing or solar panels. Whether this pays off just before a sale depends on the costs and your current label. Read more about the energy label and our article on sustainability and home value.

Kitchen and bathroom

A dated kitchen or bathroom can put buyers off, but a full renovation rarely pays for itself entirely. Often a refresh is enough: new fronts, different taps, better lighting or new sealant. Not sure what's wise? Our specialists in renovation for sale are happy to think along with you.

Garden and outdoor space

Buyers also look outside. A tidy garden, trimmed hedges and a clean patio make a big difference. On a balcony, a few plants and a small seating area help show how the space can be used. Also read our tips on a garden that sells.

What you'd better skip

Major renovations just before a sale, such as an extension or a new layout, are risky. They cost a lot of time and money, and the buyer's taste may differ from yours. Very personal choices in materials and colour also often backfire.

Presentation is just as important

A well-maintained home also needs to be well presented. Professional photography, a clear floor plan and a clear property description ensure your investment becomes visible. Our selling agents arrange the entire presentation.

Tailored advice

Want to know which interventions would yield the most for your home? Get in touch for a no-obligation advisory conversation. We'll look together at your home, your neighbourhood and your planning.

Drawing up a sale plan

Make a simple plan with everything you want to do before the home goes online. Start with decluttering and small maintenance, then the paintwork and finally the styling and photography. That way you prevent the sale from being delayed. Your agent can help determine what has priority and what you can skip.

Styling at the last moment

A few days before the photography, give the home an extra clean and put out fresh flowers or plants. Choose neutral cushions and a few accessories to give the space atmosphere, without making it too personal. Make sure all the lights work and move cars away from the façade. These small steps cost little, but result in photos that appeal to buyers. That increases the chance of more viewings and ultimately a better price.