The two rooms that sell a house

If you've been thinking about selling your home, chances are you've also been thinking about ways to improve its value. Renovations can quickly become costly, and not all will add the value you expect, or even equate to the same amount you spent on them. So which home improvements are guaranteed to add the most value to your property? Let's take a look.

"You've probably heard this before, but the adage that kitchens sell houses does, in fact, hold true," says Berry Everitt, CEO of the Chas Everitt International property group. "A well-designed kitchen is a selling point for buyers, as is the bathroom, as these are rooms that people tend to spend the most time in."

This means that as a seller, the kitchen and the bathroom are the two rooms that you should prioritise updating. However, Everitt also notes that sellers should always speak to their real estate agent before adding home improvements to see what alterations will add the most value and which will end up costing you more than what you'll gain. 

The Kitchen 

Often referred to as the heart of the home, the kitchen is the focal point of a property and has a major impact on how a buyer feels about a property. As such, a well-designed and functional kitchen can make a home more appealing and welcoming to buyers. 

However, kitchens are also the most expensive rooms to renovate, so as a seller with a dated kitchen it can seem daunting to update this room without it costing a bomb. 

Here are our top recommendations for small and cost-effective improvements: 

• Refinish cabinets by sanding them down and painting them 

• Replace hardware with contemporary pulls and knobs

• Adding an island or peninsula is an achievable way to add more workspace provided your kitchen has the space to accommodate one

• Change outdated light fixtures with new, statement ones

• Adding a splashback is also a small change that can add big value to your kitchen and by extension your home as a whole. 

And how about our least expensive but most important tip? Clear the countertops of clutter. Get rid of that bulky toaster oven and coffee maker. You'll be surprised at how much larger your kitchen will appear when the counters are uncluttered.

The Bathroom 

The bathroom is another essential room when it comes to selling a house. While it may not be as glamorous as the kitchen, it's still a space that buyers pay close attention to. A clean and well-maintained bathroom can make a home feel more inviting and comfortable, while a dirty or outdated bathroom can be a major turnoff.

When it comes to designing a great bathroom, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Ensure it's clean 

• Address any damp and mould issues

• Replace outdated tapware 

• Upgrade your toilet 

• Add storage 

A great bathroom can make a home feel more luxurious and comfortable, which is a major selling point for many buyers.

All in all, by focusing on the kitchen and bathroom you can boost your home's value and make it more appealing to potential buyers. If you would like more advice on selling your home you can download our seller's guide here or get in touch with a dedicated agent in your area for personalised insights.