Property upgrades to help sellers post-election

In the wake of the 2024 election, the property market is showing signs of renewed vigour. This presents an excellent opportunity for homeowners considering selling their properties to focus on strategic upgrades that can enhance marketability and value. 

With the sunnier weather and summer holidays, homeowners will be pleased to know that the property market is brighter than it has been in over two years. This feel-good factor might be down to the incoming government and a renewed sense of optimism that has encouraged people to move. With this renewed confidence, it’s a good time to make home improvements that can help you achieve the highest (albeit realistic) valuation for your property. 

With the election excitement in the past and your attention turning to potentially selling, this article explores if the timing is right to sell and whether home improvements might help secure your sale.

Decide if it’s the right time to sell

The months right after an election typically see an uptick in property market activity making it an ideal time for potential sellers to prepare their homes for sale. Following Labour’s landslide victory, house prices are reportedly at their highest in two years, with an added positivity following the latest fall in inflation rates. Meanwhile, buyers tend to have more confidence in making significant financial decisions after an election. So, if you’re wondering when the best time is to buy, it’s usually when prices are on the up. 

This positive news of a healthier housing market coupled with promising valuations means the time might be right to list your property and have it formally valued. Understanding what asking price you can expect is a good starting point before you make any costly decisions on potential property upgrades. Some proposed home improvements might vary in magnitude, from redesigning a summer garden or modernising a property to finishing off a half-installed ensuite and upgrading your garage doors. 

Get the price right

The post-election market may be dynamic, and you may need to adjust your price based on buyer interest and feedback. However, setting the right, realistic price for your property is an important consideration at any time if you want to attract viewers and serious buyers. Property experts can advise you about the most realistic price to begin marketing your property and the variables to consider if you are keen to attract serious buyers.

It’s essential to strike a balance between maximising your return and remaining competitive. Conduct thorough research on comparable properties in your area. Look at recent sales data and current listings to get a sense of the market. Consider factors such as location, size, condition, and unique features when comparing your property to others.

Their expertise can help you set a competitive price, taking into account your upgrades and current market conditions, but be prepared to be flexible with your pricing strategy. 

Your estate agent will help you work out the most desirable improvements to make for your home, and whether, having made them, they might increase your estimated valuation. As the market continues to gain momentum, sellers who have already begun investing time and resources in upgrades are likely to find themselves at a distinct advantage. 

Ultimately, your aim is to secure the best price (and buyer) and make the right upgrades to justify achieving the highest price for your type of home, wherever it’s located. Here are some tips for enhancing your property’s exterior, creating the best first impression to interested viewers.

Make small repairs for a big impact

If you’re keen to find a buyer quickly, it might be easier to make minor upgrades to improve your home’s presentation. With a reported 93% of buyers put off by very simple issues that you can easily rectify, it’s sensible to address minor issues with quick fixes that enhance your property’s appearance in photos, online videos, and viewings, such as tidying away clutter, letting more light in, tackling bad smells, finishing incomplete tasks, and mowing the lawn. 

In this case, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference and allow your home to feel fresher and more modern. Ensure all windows and doors are in good working order. Replace any cracked window panes, repair or replace damaged screens, and make sure all doors open and close smoothly. 

The exterior of your home is the first impression potential buyers have, and as the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Therefore, focusing on exterior maintenance can significantly boost your property's kerb appeal and overall value. A well-maintained garden can be a major selling point. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and consider adding some colourful plants or flowers for visual interest.

A tidy garden not only looks appealing but also suggests to potential buyers that the property has been well-cared for. Often overlooked, the driveway and garage can significantly impact a property's overall appearance. Repair any cracks in the driveway and consider resurfacing if it's looking worn. 

Choose sustainable upgrades

With growing awareness of environmental issues, many of today’s potential buyers are interested in homes with sustainable features. Investing in eco-friendly upgrades can make your property more attractive to prospective buyers with a few simple steps. You can start by replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models. This not only appeals to eco-conscious buyers but can also lead to lower utility bills, a significant selling point for many potential homeowners.

Upgrading your home's insulation can add value to a property as well as improve its overall energy-efficiency and comfort. Consider adding insulation to lofts, walls, and floors and install smart home features, automated home systems, smart meters / thermostats, lighting systems, and doorbells that all appeal to tech-savvy buyers.

The post-election period, combined with better weather and holidays is an excellent opportunity for homeowners to prepare their properties for sale. By focusing on exterior maintenance, tackling small repairs, considering sustainable upgrades, and setting the right price, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful and profitable sale.

Any home improvements not only help in marketing your property but also contribute to maintaining its long-term value. If you are thinking about selling your property, find out how much your home is worth with a free property valuation.

This guest post was written by Annie Button.