Simple things like removing clutter can vastly improve the appeal of a home, and the good news from experts is that making some simple updates can often be enough to get a buyer over the line.<\/p>\n
Natasha Dickins, DIY specialist, renovator and owner of Little Red Industries, offers a three-step plan that she claims will work for anything that is needing a bit of a refresh, whether you\u2019re transforming a chair, a room or a house.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe first step is to take away the one thing that doesn\u2019t work, something that makes it feel dated or dysfunctional,\u201d she says. \u201cFor example, it could be dark cupboards, so paint them lighter.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe second is to add one thing to improve function. You might need to add a blind to improve privacy, or buy a light fitting to cover that bare bulb that\u2019s been there for years.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe third is to improve the experience. For instance have a look at the flooring or garden walkways and think what could make them look and function better. It might mean a new floor covering, or clearing and widening a path.\u201d Read on for our tips.<\/p>\n
Dickins says vendors need to look at their property through the eyes of house hunters, and a first step might be giving everything a good clean.<\/p>\n
\u201cWill they walk in and see it dark, gloomy and needing a lot of work, or will they see it as bright, clean, hygienic and ready to move straight into?\u201d she says. \u201cThat first impression can also have a lot to do with clutter.<\/p>\n
\u201cMost Australians collect heaps of stuff in their daily lives and have lots of items with sentimental value. If you look into a room and remove a third of the stuff \u2013 that\u2019s probably still not enough.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes because that\u2019s where people spend most of their time. But if those spaces are looking a bit tired pre-sale, you can make interventions without undertaking a full-scale renovation.<\/p>\n
People often underestimate the costs of renovating a home and sometimes smaller aesthetic modifications are enough to get the price they are after.<\/p>\n
Greville Pabst, chief executive officer and executive chairman of WBP Group, which specialises in property valuations and real estate marketing advice, recommends taking a minimalist approach to these rooms.<\/p>\n
\u201cSometimes it\u2019s just small cosmetic changes that are going to improve the aesthetics of your home,\u201d he says. \u201cYou don\u2019t need to spend a lot of money on structural items.\u201d<\/p>\n