6 ways to improve your property

Looking to add value to your home? Whether you’re preparing your home for selling, carrying out a complete renovation or just want to add more kerb appeal, our guide will help you to improve the functionality, comfort and appearance of your property, and therefore its potential selling price.        Major projects such as remodelling the layout to create a more modern, spacious feel are a sure way    to appeal to today’s buyers but there’s plenty you can do without so much upheaval.

1. Take care of structural defects

Repairing any structural problems such as subsidence or a leaking roof should be a priority as there’s no point in carrying out any further renovations such as rewiring or installing a new bathroom or kitchen until they are dealt with. Structural issues are likely to be amongst the most expensive to solve but unless they are dealt with are sure to lower the value of any property.

2. A stylish front door

New or old, contemporary or traditional, your front door is usually the first thing visitors to your home notice so it’s important that it makes a good impression. If your door is in good condition but is looking a bit tired, it might just need a coat or two of paint or varnish to return it to its former beauty. On the other hand, if your front door is damaged and lets in draughts, it’s probably time to install a new replacement door. Choose a style that complements the architecture of your property and also blends in with other properties in the area. Replacement doors are available in hardwood, which suits any property, and uPVC, which tends to look best in modern houses. Composite doors are increasingly popular, combining the traditional appearance of wood with the low maintenance and durability of modern materials.

3. Improve the energy efficiency of your home

Energy efficiency is more important than ever before. All property owners wishing to sell their property must have an EPC or Energy Performance Certificate which rates their home from A ( well insulated) to G ( very draughty, cold and difficult to heat). Budget-friendly ways to boost your home’s energy efficiency include making sure that the loft is insulated and that any draughts around windows and doors are sealed.

If you have a conservatory, replacing an old polycarbonate roof with a solid tiled roof, a roof lantern or a hybrid roof (part tile, part glass) will not only keep it warmer in winter and cooler in summer but will also lower your energy bills. Even better, it will also give your home a real facelift.

4. Install new central heating

Replacing or upgrading your home’s heating system is guaranteed to add more to its value than the cost of the project. If your existing boiler has the capacity, installing extra radiators or towel rails will boost your home’s appeal.

Adding a smart thermostat allows you to control your heating system from your smartphone, improving efficiency and reducing energy bills.

5. Increase value with replacement windows

Double or triple glazing is seen as an essential by many purchasers and is an excellent way to keep the warmth in and the cold out. The latest high tech glass and well made, draught-proof window frames will ensure that your home is warm and cosy even in the chilliest weather and will make your home much more appealing to prospective buyers.

When installing replacement windows, you should be sensitive to the architectural style of the property – otherwise, you risk actually reducing its value. To meet building regulations, replacement windows should be double glazed unless the property is in a Conservation Area or is listed. In this case, uPVC windows are not usually acceptable.

Replacement windows can be constructed from uPVC, timber, composite or aluminium. Each material offers different benefits so which you choose will depend on your individual taste and budget.

6. Tidy up outside

Increase the kerb appeal – and hence the potential selling price of your property – by tidying up the exterior. Trim back overhanging trees and shrubs to make the most of the space and mow and feed the lawn. Make sure all paintwork is clean and in good repair and that windows are clean and sparkling to create that all-important first impression.

Replacement doors and windows by Bergson & Eaton

Whether you’re considering installing new windows and doors or a stylish conservatory or orangery, we can design, manufacture and install bespoke replacement doors and windows to suit any style of property. To find out more, please call into our showroom in Aylesbury, where the expert team will be happy to advise you.