Imagine that you have spent a few weeks visiting open homes and private inspections of only expensive houses. You could probably compile a list of presentation points, which might also make a useful guide to boosting rental income. Some ideas involve investing a few more dollars than others but think about updates as an investment if your goal is to make your property look more enticing… and worth more.
Paint the interior the right way
Dingy walls don’t ‘sell’ houses. An elegant shade will speak volumes! Generally speaking, interior walls are best left to neutral shades, because unusual or ‘in-your-face’ colors may cause renters to back off.
Cool fan update
Old ceiling fans can really take the shine off a property but they may be able to be resurrected with a coat of paint. Consider the look you are after – a fan that blends into your ceiling for more visual space, a bold statement, or just a fan that doesn’t look like it’s been hanging around for 40 years.
You can remove the fan from the ceiling and take it outside to spray paint or you can just remove the blades. You’ll find numerous helpful step-by-step instructions on line.
Still on walls
While you are focused on walls, consider the architraves and skirtings. These are the finishing touches to a room and are a visual presence that can make a home feel more upmarket.
Look at me
Consider the visuals in your property’s marketing. Why do the room shots in the high-end magazines look so hot? It is because there is usually just one focal point for décor. Because the rooms are clean and uncluttered, they look spacious, light-filled and inviting. It also makes it easier to highlight the room’s functional features.
Old and worn isn’t good enough
Go for a stylish, sophisticated look. Buyers don’t need to be reminded that the house was first plumbed in the 1970s. Old lighting fixtures can really take the shine of a home’s presentation.
Treat window with respect
If you think the window treatments are pulling the tone of the place down, replace them with something classy. There’s a huge range… from neutral colour blinds to bold shutters or Japanese shades. Window treatments should let in the maximum amount of light, so while classic drapes can add an expensive look to a home, be careful.
Ditch anything on its last leg
If you want to attract an up-market rental return, old kitchen appliance are not going to cut it!
Much more than just a door
How do you feel about the front door? How do you think others see it? The front door is easily one of the first things that people notice about a home. If you don’t like yours, invest in a great front door.
Worth more than a drive by.
Garage doors are an often-overlooked part of ‘street appeal’ yet they take up a lot of frontages. Invest in a new garage door if need be.