How to add value to your home before you sell: Nine simple tips

If you’re planning on selling your home, and you want to bag the best possible price, there are a few simple ways you can add value to your property without doing an expensive renovation.

“Your goal should be to attract your ideal buyer who can easily visualise living in your home,” says Sarah Elshaug of Maitland Street Interiors. “To achieve this, there are plenty of small improvements you can make whilst guaranteeing major impact come auction day.”

While the right changes can add significant value, Elshaug suggests seeking a professional opinion first. “Property experts provide a valuation on any improvements and the suggested level of spend for your property depending on your suburb and target market,” she says.

So once you have the green light, what can you do to ramp up your property’s value? The experts give us their top tips.

1. Professional clean

“A professional external clean definitely entices buyers,” says Suzanne Gorman of Studio Gorman. “Have the walls washed, windows cleaned, gutters tidied and employ a gardener. The results are stunning so it’s money well spent.”

2. DIY clean

“Declutter before first inspections,” Gorman says. Empty and cull cupboards, wash walls, doors and skirting boards, and dust tops of cupboards and decorative details like light fittings.

“Spend time in the kitchen, laundry and bathrooms. If budget allows, regrout your tiles and they will look brand new.”

3. Entry way

Your entry provides visitors a preview of what is to come. “Make your home inviting,” says interior designer Camilla Molders. “You want potential buyers to make an instant emotional connection.”

Paint or paper walls, install a pendant light, corral bags and hats with cool wall hooks, and welcome rowdy foot traffic with a graphic kilim runner. “Small changes are transformative,” says Gorman. “Even a new doormat or lush potted plant can lighten the mood.”

• Related: Home-owners boost property values doing paperwork
• Related: Expert tips on renovating to add value
• Related: Which renovations offer the best return for sellers?

4. Edit

When staging your home for sale, strict editing is key. “A simply styled interior is easier for buyers to process,” says Molders, “but ensure is still has personality – a few beautiful items on a coffee table, including some greenery, are necessary and enough.”

Gorman agrees. “French soaps, colourful cushions, and plush towels in on-trend colours like bottle green, blush or coral, are affordable ways to convey that sense of luxury that buyers are after.”

5. Make space

Well-utilised space is an asset, and makes your property not only aesthetically appealing, but appear relaxed and functional. Aim to create spaciousness by using a warm colour scheme throughout, replace large furniture pieces with smaller ones, and clearing away clutter. “Place your furniture on a large area rug in a way that maximises space and allows natural light in,” says Molders.

6. Lighting

The right combination of mood and task lighting is vital when presenting your home. “Dim the lights,” says Gorman. “It shows they are all functioning, whilst evoking warmth and ambience.”

7. Walls and floors

A fresh coat of timeless white paint instantly brightens. “A blank neutral canvas helps buyers picture their own belongings in your home,” says Elshaug. “I love Dulux Whisper White for a crisp finish, or for a softer effect try Antique USA.”

Give yellowing timber floors a sand and stain with a lime wash or smoke grey, and replace tatty carpets. “They add warmth and luxury,” she says. “Stick to colours like beige and grey that work with any furnishings.”

8. Smaller details

“Small, low-cost changes can add massive appeal,” says Elshaug. Update cabinetry knobs and light fittings with more contemporary versions. Find a wide and affordable range at Target and Bunnings. “I love the Ilsa Crawford Sinnerlig cane pendant from Ikea,” says Elshaug, “especially in the kids bedrooms.”

9. Style it up

A property stylist can advise on everything from furniture placement to de-cluttering. “There is a difference between styling your own home, and the one you are selling,” says Molder. “Your home reflects your taste, but when you are selling it should speak to your buyer. A professional stylist can be a real asset here.”