Phil Spencer’s Tips On Adding Value To Your Home

New year, new home? If you’re getting ready to put your home on the market, there are a few things you’ll want to consider – and there’s no one better to advise in the matter than Location, Location, Location’s very own Phil Spencer. Here are his very best tips on increasing the value of your house.

How To Increase The Value Of Your House, According To Phil Spencer

Work From The Outside In

It might seem obvious, but curb appeal counts: sprucing up the outside of your home will ensure it looks great in those all-important listing photos. 

‘The way a home looks from the front sets the tone for what’s inside,’ says Phil. ‘Don’t hold back on refreshing the colour of your door, repairing the fence or even adding some feature lighting.’

Declutter Your Hallway

‘First impressions count, and the entrance and hall are the first opportunity you have to wow potential buyers,’ Phil reminds us. ‘Create a flowing walkway by ensuring shoes and coats are tidied, and other objects like dog leads are hidden away.’

The finishing touch? Some fresh scents. ‘If a pet lives in your home, lingering smells may not be noticeable to you, but this is often something a prospective buyer will pick up on straight away,’ Phil explains. ‘To keep any unwanted scents at bay, open windows prior to viewings to air rooms, and light candles or use diffusers to combat any remaining smells.’ 

Industville

Update Your Interiors

Whether you’re putting your house on the market or you just fancy a new start, there’s no better time to declutter, repaint and generally refresh your space. ‘Outdated colour schemes, peeling paintwork and damaged walls simply won’t go down well when it comes to future buyers,’ Phil confirms. ‘A painting and decorating job will go a long way in helping to brighten and modernise your home.’ 

Create More Storage

‘You don’t have to have a large property to be clever with your space,’ Phil reflects. ‘Go for built-in storage to remove the need for bulky furniture and help make better use of existing space.’

Want to get creative? Even the tightest nooks and crannies can provide useful storage; Phil suggests transforming underutilised alcoves into ‘a cosy reading area or even a bar.’

Maximise Energy Efficiency

‘As energy bills remain high, your home’s EPC certificate could be a key factor in the decision-making of potential buyers,’ says Phil. ‘In fact, a low rating could be the difference between matching your asking price or making a lower offer.’

To improve energy efficiency, think about installing wall and floor insulation, changing light bulbs, using low-flow showerheads, and adding reflective radiator panels. 

Consider A Kitchen Redesign

While it might feel like a big project, investing in a kitchen revamp can dramatically increase the value of your home.

‘A new can be a key selling point when it comes to putting your house on the market, adding up to 15 percent to a home’s value depending on size, storage, and appliances,’ Phil confirms. 

Laura Ashley Kitchen Collection

Refresh Your Bathroom

‘Bathrooms face a lot of wear and tear if not properly maintained,’ says Phil. ‘For a new look without the hefty price tag, refresh silicone around the bath and shower area, replace old tiles, or simply regrout to brighten up the room. A new bathroom can add up to 5 percent to overall value.’

Don’t Forget About Rewiring & Replumbing

While you may not be able to actually see the plumbing and wiring in your home, it’s still a huge factor when it comes to securing a buyer – so giving these systems a bit of an update is always a good idea. Make sure to plan ahead, however, and get this done and dusted before you redecorate. ‘Since it’s a disruptive job, only carry it out before taking on any redecoration work,’ Phil advises. ‘It might just be a good excuse to replaster the walls afterwards!’

Implement Smart Technology

From thermostats to home security systems and high-tech doorbells, technology can help you to ‘conserve energy, increase security, and stay on-trend,’ says Phil.

Sofa.com

Conserve Period Features

While it’s crucial to bring your home up to date, it’s not all about modernisation. ‘Period features have their appeal – particularly when it comes to the architecture of the property,’ Phil states. ‘Conserving them or bringing them to life can really give your home some charm, helping it to stand out from the crowd.’

Create More Natural Light

‘Sometimes, it’s not about major building work, but making the most of what you have,’ Phil explains. ‘Natural light is a major selling point and something potential buyers will notice straight away. Make sure no furniture is blocking your windows, and consider installing skylights. When it comes to painting, meanwhile, opting for lighter shades will help reflect natural light, creating the illusion of a bigger space.’

For more ways to increase the value of your home, visit Wickes’ House Move Heroes Hub, in partnership with Phil Spencer’s property advice platform, Move iQ. Plus, for a room-by-room guide to energy efficiency, check out the Wickes Interactive Energy Saving House.