Keen to make your home more appealing to buyers? A property expert shares five updates that can really boost its value.

As co-owner of iSubdivide, a full-service property development firm based in Victoria, Rebecca leads bespoke residential projects from planning through to construction with a strong focus on quality and design. Also a nationally published Interior Designer, Rebecca brings years of experience from Sydney and Melbourne’s most prestigious suburbs, ensuring each development is functional and beautifully finished.

Add a bedroom or ensuite (with no structural changes)

You don’t always need a full extension to renovate your home and increase its value; you may be able to make very smart changes without touching the structure.

A lot of older homes have crazy layouts, including oversized bathrooms, second dining areas or large laundries that aren’t really needed or wanted by today’s buyer. When renovating to sell, I always try to reconfigure the floor plan to add an extra bedroom or ensuite. You can turn a three-bedroom home into a four-bedroom with two bathrooms, and attract more interest and a higher sale price.

If you can make changes without touching the structure, it’s an opportunity to keep your costs low and your return high.

Renovate the kitchen and bathroom

You’ve probably heard that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. It’s because they are two of the most used parts of the home and therefore super important to potential buyers.

A modern and functional (which is a must!) renovation with new cabinetry, fittings, tiling, and appliances can really lift the overall aesthetic of your home. It doesn’t need to be high-end either – in budget makeovers I’ve done, the right colours, textures and details have made a huge impact.

I always think about creating a design and making colour choices that will look really attractive in marketing photos. Try not to be too plain because at the end of the day, you want people lining up to view your home.

Subdivide your backyard

If you’ve got a large backyard, there could be potential to subdivide and either sell off part of the block or build a second home. Whether you choose to sell the new home, reduce your debt or rent it out for extra income, this can be a smart long-term investment.

It is definitely worth your while to get an initial Site Assessment and expert advice, to see what is possible on your site. This includes checking local council guidelines and planning requirements, as not everyone can subdivide!

Build a granny flat

Granny flats have been getting very popular recently because they are generally cheaper to build than full townhouses and can provide high rental returns of up to 12% depending on your location.

Recent changes were made to Victorian planning laws earlier this year, and you can now build a secondary dwelling up to 60sqm on lots over 300sqm without needing a planning permit. Some conditions apply, such as the site must have no environmental or flooding overlays.

This is a fantastic way to boost your property’s value and rental income without the long wait and fees that come with applying for a council permit. We have clients who have built a granny flat for their kids, their parents, or just to make the most of the high rental yield, so it’s definitely something to consider.

Improve the landscaping

One of the most valuable and low-cost changes you can make to add value to your property is to update the facade.

Never underestimate a tidy, well-landscaped front yard, a new fence and a fresh coat of paint. These small changes will also make a huge difference to your property photos, which are so important to your online marketing.

Greenery always goes a long way. Get expert advice from your local nursery on plant choices and aim to make the front yard as lush as possible with a clean and tidy pathway. I always try to keep large and mature trees because they add so much character – so don’t start cutting any trees when you “tidy up”.

For the backyard, install a small deck or entertaining area to create a more usable outdoor space – most buyers will love this, and it will definitely help sell your home.

Is there a particular home improvement you have made that added value to your property? Leave us a comment!