Quick updates to boost your investment property’s appeal

Whether you’re renting out your investment property or getting ready to sell it, it’s a good idea to keep it well-maintained. Here are some things to consider that won’t cost too much.

Give the property a professional deep clean

Nothing looks more enticing than a property that is fresh and clean. This should include getting the carpets professionally cleaned to remove built-up dust and dirt and fluff up the pile.

Windows and window frames should be sparkling and free from dirt and grime in the tracks. This should include both inside and out.

If your house has curtains, these should be washed or dry-cleaned. If you add some scented fabric softener to the final rinse, the house will smell lovely and fresh.

Give the walls a fresh coat of paint

The paintwork in the home can get quite tired looking over time. You would be amazed at how a fresh coat of light, neutral paint can brighten up the interiors and make them look clean and contemporary.

The same goes for the exterior of the home. Fix any flaking paint on the walls and don’t forget the guttering and downspouts as well as the window frames.

Update the window coverings

If the curtains or blinds have seen better days, no amount of washing or cleaning will make them look good. If this is the case, consider replacing old and tired curtains and blinds with nice, new modern ones.

Update the floor coverings

While good quality carpet will come up a treat after it’s been professionally cleaned, tired and worn carpet will never look appealing.

It’s far better to consider updating the floor coverings to give the home a more modern look. These days, there are plenty of good options besides carpet. Floating timber-look floors are very popular and, as a bonus, they’re really easy to maintain and keep clean.

Add a touch of greenery

It’s amazing the difference a few strategically placed healthy indoor plants make. If you don’t want to go out and purchase new plants, you can simply hire them for the professional photography session and then return them when you’re done.

Add some mirrors to increase the light

Large mirrors that are placed strategically opposite a window will reflect the light back into the room, making it look bright and airy.

While you’re at it, have a critical look at the mirrors in the bathroom and consider updating these to more modern ones as well.

Smarten up the kitchen

While the kitchen might be perfectly functional, if the cabinetry is old, it will give the room a tired look. But, you don’t have to go all out and install a completely new kitchen.

Simple tasks such as painting the existing doors and replacing the hardware with more modern handles will make all the difference. You might also want to consider updating the tapware to more stylish options.

You could even carry this into the bathroom by replacing the taps with ones that match the newly installed versions in the kitchen.

Consider updating the light fittings

If the home has traditional light fittings rather than downlights, you might want to consider replacing these with new and modern versions.

Don’t forget to check that all the lights are working and replace any bulbs with energy-efficient ones.

Need some help in deciding on the best way to refresh your investment property?

At HPA, we’re always happy to advise you on ways that you can freshen up your investment property without overcapitalising. We are expert local property managers and sales agents who understand what both tenants and buyers are looking for. And, we’ll make sure that you don’t spend more than necessary to give your property a fresh new look.