Which DIY upgrades will add value to your Wokingham home?

Spring is here and it’s the season of bank holiday weekends, which for many of us means a chance to do some DIY and upgrade our home. You want to ensure any changes you make create the best environment for your family but also add value to your home should you decide to sell in the future.

According to independent inspection body RISA, homeowners have spent over £6 billon trying to resolve DIY disasters. At a time where every penny counts, you won’t want a DIY SOS rather than an upgrade that will add value to your home.

Know your limitations 

Before you pick up a hammer, knock down a wall or rip out the bathroom, be honest with yourself; we know that DIY can save you money and we relish the challenge and sense of achievement when the task is completed and looks fantastic. 

But what happens if you are out of your depth, and the small job uncovers another issue? Know when to get a professional in, as bad DIY can quickly knock thousands off the value of your home.

Start with first impressions

There will always be that house on a street that stands out from the rest: the home whose exterior shines, it may be minimalist chic, adorned with hanging baskets, or just give off that warm welcome that shows the home is loved.

First impressions really do count and set the tone for the rest of your home; therefore, when it comes to your DIY jobs, start from the very beginning with kerb appeal.

Your front door is the focal point of your home’s kerb appeal, a quick wash or a fresh coat of paint can really make a huge difference. 

Don’t forget the smaller jobs

It is easy to pay attention to the big jobs and neglect those little jobs for another day. But it can often be the little things that ring the biggest alarm bells for potential buyers: dirty walls, mouldy sealant, broken lightbulbs all say that this home is uncared for and may lead buyers to wonder what bigger issues lie beneath the surface.

Bathrooms

At some point you may wish to upgrade your bathroom, especially if it is starting to look tired, as this is a space in our homes where we can relax. The bath vs shower debate is one only you can decide, but bear in mind that, should you decide to sell in the future, not having a bath could turn some buyers off your home.

Whatever you decide, it is essential to get it right and keep to your budget.

You may wish to seek professional advice, or ask them to undertake some of the work. As they say, kitchens and bathrooms sell houses, but most importantly create a bathroom that you will love to spend time in.

Your outdoor space

Your garden or terrace is an extension of your home; it is another ‘room’ in your property that, as the warmer weather starts to appear, you will want to spend a lot of time in.

During lockdown we know that gardens were a DIY favourite, and the passion for having a garden that works for your family has not diminished. 

Our tip would be to make sure that your different zones flow into each other and that your choice of materials creates a cohesive style that defines and elevates your garden into a stylish haven you all can enjoy. 

Jet wash any paving and patios. A healthy freshly cut lawn and tubs, beds full of colour with seasonal planting will show your home is loved and cared for.

Potentially, having an attractive kerb appeal could add 2% -3% onto the value of your home.

Upgrades on a budget

There are many jobs you can do that will potentially help the value of your property but not require a large investment like a new kitchen or extension would.

From decluttering to decorating, organising and freshening your home’s décor can make a huge difference in increasing your home’s attractiveness  to potential buyers.

There are plenty of ‘organising’ shows on TV to give you some inspiration, from Netflix’s The Home Edit to Stacey Solomon’s Sort Your Life Out, with some simple changes your home can be transformed.

If you would like any advice on simple or big DIY upgrades that will add value to your Wokingham home, please call Nick or Teresa at Quarters Residential Estate Agents Ltd on 0118 466 0292 (call or WhatsApp) – we’re here to help.