You’ve decided to sell your place – and now you’re getting into fix-up mode to have it ready for market.
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When it comes to giving your property an inexpensive update before listing it for sale, TAFE NSW building and construction teacher and builder, Andrew Faulks, who teaches throughout the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, has offered some advice.
Here are his five suggestions on how to get your house looking sharp.
Consider street appeal
That first impression is important. Take an objective look and consider how you might tidy up or re-vamp the gardens and landscaping.
“Add new mulch to gardens, smarten up the edges, and add some fertiliser to green up the lawn,” Mr Faulks said.
A coat of paint
When turning your attention inside the house, there are some easy wins and one of them was with paint.
Mr Faulks said fresh paint through the house using a modern colour scheme and some light colours will have a big impact.
Improving lighting and adding a skylight to dark areas is another good way to brighten up a property.
“Not sure what colours go where?” he said.
“TAFE NSW offers more than 500 short courses including interior decoration, building and construction as well as floristry.”
This one won’t cost a thing
This tip is simple – elbow grease. Have a serious clean up and de-clutter.
“Tackle each room and clean it from floor to ceiling.
“Don’t forget the windows. Clear off shelves and cabinets. Also consider removing some furniture if the rooms are too full.”
Key areas to consider
Mr Faulks said kitchens and bathrooms were the main rooms prospective buyers saw as being expensive to update.
He said for about $5000 these rooms could be given a respectable lease on life.
“In the kitchen you could replace the cupboard door fronts, change the handles, and install new tapware.
“Depending on your budget you might even replace some of the appliances.
“A new floor covering could also make a big difference, particularly if you’ve currently got tired old lino down.”
The bathroom
Look at changing the shower screen, put in a new mirror, and update lighting, towel rails and tapware.
