A Perth Property Valuer’s Tips for Increasing Home Value
When it comes time to buy or sell a house, a few changes could make a big difference in home value. We sat down with a local property valuer, who works in the blue chip areas of Perth, to find out what matters most when determining the value of a home. Besides the basics, like location, view and size, there are features in a home that can make a huge difference to its value.
Kitchens
The Gist: To add the most value to your home, bring your kitchen up to current trends and add a bit of shine.
When it came to kitchens, our property valuer had the following advice. “Kitchens and bathrooms are the first places to renovate to increase value, but kitchens are #1 because everyone sees and uses them. The kitchen is the hub of the home.”
He explained that it’s important to be aware of trends when renovating. “Stainless steel appliances are very popular now. Anything that is popular increases a home’s value on the market and in turn, increases its valuation.” He went on to say that, “in new homes today, shiny is in, such as high gloss painted cabinets, polished floors, etc.”
To increase the value of your home, start in the kitchen. After all, the kitchen is the heart of the home.
Timber Cabinets
The Gist: Keep and refinish high quality timber cabinets. Paint if damaged or not good quality. Focus on the kitchen as a whole.
It’s no secret that custom timber cabinets can have a dramatic effect on the presentation and value of a home. But the quality, age and look of timber kitchen cabinets can vary. It’s important to take these factors into consideration when planning to refresh your kitchen.
Our property valuer pointed out, that not all timber cabinets are built the same. He said to “never paint over a very high quality timber unless it’s necessary.” It’s best to get the high quality timber cabinets refinished if you can.
He explained that painted kitchen cabinets are second best to quality timber cabinets. “Gloss or semi-gloss painted cabinets have a much better look and feel than vinyl or laminate, but of course, quality timber are the best.” Try to get the best you can afford when it comes to kitchen cabinets. It will pay off on your home valuation.
Overall, he had solid advice about the kitchen as a whole. “It matters how a kitchen presents. A cheap Ikea kitchen won’t impress many people.” Most importantly, he pointed out that “a kitchen needs to pull together to get the best valuation. The countertops need to match the cabinets and the appliances.”
Flooring
The Gist: Opt for polished timber flooring that matches cabinets. Don’t skimp on the outside deck.
If you choose the right flooring, it can add value to your home and style as well. As our property valuer put it, “One of the best features in a house is polished timber flooring and cabinetry to compliment. Expensive timber flooring is the best you can have other than imported tiles from Italy.” The flooring throughout a house can totally change the overall look and feel. So go for the quality flooring, but ensure it matches the look and feel of the rest of the house.
The outside of the house shouldn’t be overlooked. Our property valuer explained that the presentation of an outside area is important. He pointed out that, “timber decking is a stand out feature. It adds character to a home. It’s hard to beat a good quality timber deck.” So make the quality flooring transition to the outside as well to maximise your home’s value.
All in all, he said it’s important to have a holistic approach to renovating your home. He cautioned to “be aware of the period of your home when renovating. You wouldn’t renovate a 2010 home the same as a 1910 home.”
Have any of your own tips or experiences you want to share? Comment below!
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