Britons looking to sell their homes can boost their property price with a few simple tweaks.
According to an interior designer turned realtor, a few front garden improvements can increase a home’s perceived value.
Chenise Hinds told GB News: “Small touches can make a big difference when it comes to first impressions.
“Kerb appeal sets the tone when buyers first drive up. Little improvements like paint and plants can boost your home’s perceived value by five to 10 per cent or more.”
The average UK house price was £288,000 in October 2023, according to the UK House Price Index published by the Office of National Statistics. After “little improvements” such as adding plants, a 10 per cent increase on a £288,000 home would be £316,800, making a difference of £28,800 – almost £30,000.
‘Little improvements like paint and plants can boost your home’s perceived value by five to 10 per cent or more’
GETTY IMAGES
Chenise continued: “Planting a few colourful flowers or bushes livens up the entryway. I’d focus on low-maintenance varieties that bloom through multiple seasons.”
Cercis canadensis, also known as forest pansy, is a great option as it looks great all year round. In spring, it boasts pinky-violet coloured blossom on bare stems, then dark purple heart-shaped leaves in summer.
In autumn, the blossom turns yellow before falling, and the shape of the plant can be enjoyed in winter because they are multi-stemmed.
Alternatively, witch hazel has scented flowers in late winter and early spring, (which is ideal when little else is in flower). In autumn, witch hazel leaves turn an intense red before falling.
Property expert Chenise added: “For kerb appeal, I also recommend a fresh coat of paint on the front door and window frames. It’s an easy fix that makes your home look crisp and cared for.
“Converting unused attic space into a bedroom and bathroom pays off tremendously too. As a designer, I know how to creatively configure livable square footage upstairs.
“The investment into a proper loft conversion really adds value, especially for families needing more space. An appraisal after the renovation will confirm the boost.”
Fellow interior designer and realtor Joy Aumann told GB News: “I know getting your home ready to sell can feel daunting. But boosting your property value doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.”
The expert seconded the view that a pretty front garden can be instrumental in boosting property value. She advised: “Outdoors, tidy up your yard and add splashes of colour with flowers and pots. Washing windows and power washing siding works wonders too. It’s amazing what a little TLC can do for kerb appeal.”
As for inside, Joy advised sellers to “focus on the kitchen and bathrooms – the heart of any home”. She said: “Even simple upgrades like fresh paint, new fixtures or modern handles make a big difference to buyers.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
‘Planting a few colourful flowers or bushes livens up the entryway’
GETTY IMAGES
She continued: “Don’t underestimate small fixes either. Swapping outdated light switches or outlet covers freshens things up. And overhauling your front door with a bright colour and stylish hardware makes a stellar first impression.”
One property expert named the sophisticated colour that will help sell your home fast.
Joy also offered a top tip that doesn’t require spending any money – just a little bit of time and effort.
She said: “First, declutter and pack up personal items. This instantly makes rooms feel more spacious and welcoming. Store excess furniture too so buyers can envision their own belongings instead.”
