Tips from Sarah Fox
Adding value to your house isn’t always the top priority when considering changes to the interior but it remains good to know what elements are likely to have the greatest impact.
Horton and Garton recently caught up with local interior designer Sarah Fox, from Fox Interiors, to find out what homeowners can do to boost value and appeal to potential home buyers and appeal to tenants.
We all know what a difference it makes being in a space that has been thoughtfully curated and designed. Having sold and let hundreds of properties over the years, Horton and Garton can confirm that homes that both function well and look beautiful often secure a top sales price and usually within a short amount of time.
Sarah Fox’s approach to interior design is to focus on creating a cohesive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environment that appeals more widely to potential home buyers. Sarah says:
“It’s more than simply the style of the interior decor; it’s about creating an aspirational lifestyle. By investing in key areas of your property and paying attention to detail, you can maximise its value and marketability.”
These are Sarah Fox’s pointers that might make all the difference to the value of your home and its saleability or the price it can command on the rental market.
Neutral Colour Scheme
Opting for a neutral colour palette for walls and major furniture pieces like whites, greys, and beiges creates a versatile backdrop that appeals to a wide range of tastes and creates a light and timeless feel.
Upgrades to Frequently Used Rooms
Kitchens and bathrooms are key selling points for any property so upgrading these areas with modern appliances, fixtures, and finishes will increase the property’s desirability, plus, with wellness a number one priority for many, what better way to enhance relaxation than with a touch of luxury in the bathroom.
Built in Storage
Sarah recommends incorporating built-in storage solutions such as closets, cabinets, and shelving to help keep the space ordered and clutter-free. Furthermore, fitted joinery adds value to your property and is especially effective in bedrooms for an organised interior.
Quality Materials, Fixtures and Fittings
Just looking good isn’t going to cut it. Investing in high-quality materials and finishes for fixtures, countertops, flooring, and cabinetry and including materials such as hardwood floors, granite or quartz countertops, and stainless-steel appliances can elevate the perceived value of your property.
Natural Lighting
Natural light can make spaces feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. Sarah suggests installing larger windows where there is the option as a part of any renovations. Changes with a lower price tag and that are more straight forwards are using sheer curtains and strategically placing mirrors to reflect light throughout the space.
Open Plan
If feasible, consider opening up interior spaces to create an airier layout. This can involve removing non-load-bearing walls or partitions to improve flow and functionality, for example combining the kitchen, dining, and living area creates a comfortable living and entertaining space that is highly desirable to homebuyers.
Energy Efficiency
Integrate energy-efficient features such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances.
Not only do these features appeal to environmentally conscious buyers, but they can also lead to long-term cost savings on utility bills. Incorporating smart home technology can add convenience and appeal to your property.
Final stages of preparing for sale
It’s not always the case that the most recently renovated or redesigned homes command the top prices, without being well presented, all previous efforts can fall flat.
Premium homes will often engage the services of a professional property consultant who will stage their home. Dressing the property can help potential buyers and potential tenants visualise themselves living in the space which can lead to quicker sales and higher offers.
To discuss your plans to move home, please do get in touch without obligation.
Horton & Garton are at 161 Chiswick High Rd., Chiswick, London W4 2DT.
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