Before you get going on improvements and renovations, start by looking at what properties in your area are selling for. Be careful to keep within the limits of the surrounding neighbourhood. This is the best point of reference to determine your ceiling when it comes to renovating. Now start with these upgrade options:

1. Can you convert your loft or basement?

One of the best questions to ask in any home-improvement situation is “can I create more space in my home?”. Converting a loft or basement into habitable rooms with a function and purpose to be listed with your property can often be the easiest, cheapest and least disruptive way to create more resale value. You can turn these types of already existing spaces into an extra bedroom, office, workspace, or even a home gym. As a rule, improvements that increase the functional space of a home tend to hold their value longer than ones that just make a house look better.

2. How about eco-friendly enhancements?

Both electricity and a generally higher cost of living mean that any saving your property can offer on utilities is a major advantage. You may have wondered, does solar energy increase a home’s value or should you get a generator installed for load shedding? Ultimately, shrewd energy-efficient improvements like these can certainly add to the resale value of a home. Also, consider switching all or a few of your light bulbs to LED/CFLs, fix any leaky taps, install water-saving showerheads and ensure that you have a timer installed on your geysers.

3. Could you upgrade your entertainment area?

The inside-outside living of a covered braai room is extremely popular in most areas. Inside fireplaces for frosty winters are also wonderful for increasing a home’s value. Being able to entertain, irrespective of the elements outside, can usually be quite easily accommodated with a few practical alterations too. Folding or sliding doors or windows are a great option, allowing you to throw open the area when the weather allows for it.

4. How do you feel about landscaping?

A low maintenance garden could attract a certain type of personality and a spectacular but rather high maintenance yard could attract another. As a golden rule, making use of plants and shrubs that are indigenous to the area will alleviate unnecessary watering and maintenance in the garden. Also, practical upgrades like a good fence, attractive pavers, well-pruned greenery, as well as an automatic watering system, may also increase resale value.

5. It might be as easy as getting a pool

Installing a pool can also affect the saleability of your home differently from buyer to buyer. For example, expensive upkeep and the fear of liability mean that for some, the responsibility of a swimming pool will detract from a property more than add to its value. However, if you live in a higher-end neighbourhood and most of your neighbours have pools and patios for outside enjoyment, then not having a pool might make your home harder to sell.

6. How about a kitchen makeover? Within reason!

You may have heard the phrase “kitchens sell properties” but they’re also the most expensive renovation to undertake and one of the hardest to recoup. Without exception, potential buyers will consider the kitchen when evaluating whether they are willing to pay the asking price of your property. Therefore, modernising the cabinets and countertops, upgrading to brand-new appliances, updating sinks and faucets, and redoing the flooring could certainly mean increasing your home’s appeal and value. However, get expert advice on how far other homes in your neighbourhood have taken this first, as it’s very easy to overspend unnecessarily in this regard.

7. Upgrade your home security…

This is possibly one of the most important features for resale value. Upgrading your home security will not only be lucrative for you when you decide to sell your property but also gives you peace of mind while you’re an occupant. This could be as simple as upgrading your fencing and burglar bars to adding state-of-the-art features like electric fencing, beams, and even security cameras. Again, the level of security your neighbourhood needs can be gauged by other property’s security measures around you.

Content by RE/MAX. 

For more on home, visit Get It Magazine.