When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. A buyer who spots outdated paint or visible wear may assume the entire property has been poorly maintained. This could lead to them noticing even more flaws. The goal of quick fixes isn’t to completely renovate your home. In fact, going overboard with big changes might even discourage some buyers who prefer to put their own stamp on a place.

In this blog we cover covering ways to make quick fixes and some additions to make your house look great. All of these ideas can be done without a professional - just a few evenings and a bit of elbow grease required.

Additions

Radiator covers

Whilst radiators are functional, they don’t exactly scream “style”.  Not only do radiator covers look more polished, but they also provide a handy surface for decor, like candles or houseplants. They’re also great for protecting pets and kids from burns. Radiator covers can take a home up a notch in class.

They’re easy to install and they can be left freestanding, however, for extra safety, it’s best to fix it to the wall.

Tip: Be sure to do research into efficient covers as some covers can trap heat.

Radiator covers provide excellent places to put some decorations on show.

PVC wall panels

If your kitchen or bathroom is looking a little dated but you’re not ready for a full remodel, consider PVC wall panels. These panels offer a quick, affordable way to give a space a facelift. Available in a range of styles, PVC panels are water-resistant, easy to clean, and incredibly simple to install. Just measure your space, apply adhesive, and stick them up – no need for grouting or professional tiling.

They are a budget-friendly alternative to traditional tiles and they also allow you to refresh a room in just an afternoon.

Storage

Storage is sometimes  overlooked. The reason storage is so important is that the mess from clutter can make it harder for the buyer to envision themselves living there.

Storage doesn’t have to take up a lot of room.

Here are some cheap solutions for banishing the clutter for viewings:

➔    Corner shelves

➔    Kitchen countertop organisers

➔    Above toilet storage

➔    Clothes organisers for underbeds

Be sure to buy some decor to add to the new shelves too. Specifically plants - real or fake. Biophilic design (incorporating greenery) is particularly trendy in kitchens and bathrooms right now.

Superficial Fixes That Make a Big Difference

Fresh coat of paint

This might just be the most important fix on the list, paint! Old paint can easily make your house look tired and unloved, a fresh lick of paint can change instantly. Light, neutral colours are particularly appealing to buyers, as they provide a blank canvas that helps them envision their own style in the space, whilst also making the rooms look more spacious.

After you’ve done your wall it would also be a time to also make sure your skirtings look crisp by giving them a quick paint.

Top colour choices for selling your home:

➔    Light grey

➔    White

➔    Beige

➔    Greige (a blend of grey and beige)

➔    Sage green

These colours are neutral enough to appeal to a wide audience, while still feeling modern and stylish.

Light paint makes the room feel more airy and spacious.

Resealing sinks, showers, and baths

The seals around your sinks, showers, and baths naturally degrade over time, especially with exposure to water and sunlight. This wear and tear can leave the bathroom looking dated and even a little grimy. Resealing these areas is a quick, affordable fix that can make your bathroom feel brand new again.

All you have to do is buy a kit. These kits include a tool to remove the old silicon, the new silicon, applicator, and a profiling tool to get a smooth edge. These kits cost around £45, not a bad deal for the impact it will have.

Deep Cleaning

While not exactly a DIY project, giving your home a deep clean is essential before viewings. A spotless home instantly feels more inviting and cared for. Pay special attention to often-overlooked areas like limescale build up on taps, light switches, and inside cabinets. Don’t forget windows – clean windows let in more light, making your home feel brighter and more welcoming.

And there you have it! Even if you're not the handiest person, these small improvements can make a big difference in showing buyers that your home has been well looked after, especially if you're planning to move this year. For more expert advice on getting ahead of the property rush and making sure your home stands out, don’t hesitate to reach out to Katie Griffin via email at katie@sawdyeandharris.co.uk or give me a call at 01364 652652.