Chapter 17
Interior Improvements

The wow factor: when prospective buyers or tenants step inside, you want them to say, wow and literally throw their money at you.

PAINTING

This is an area where big dollars can be saved if you do it yourself.

WARNING: If you are not confident in your ability, then pay someone. Any savings will cost you more when selling due to a poor paint job.

When it comes to deciding on the color scheme, do not allow your personal taste to interfere (unless you are an interior decorator). Apply the K.I.S.S. principle - Keep It Simple Stupid. Give the market what it wants.

Feature walls are a great inexpensive way to add some flare to your paint job. Do not use dark colors if a room is small or dark, as this will only highlight the problem.

If the property has dark colors, or there are stains on the walls, then you are advised to use a special sealer. If you don't, then you will find yourself applying extra coats of paint and that the wall remains stained anyway.

KITCHENS

Kitchen remodeling can cut a big hole in your budget. Wherever possible, a face-lift will suffice. This can include new bench tops, wall tiles and repainting cabinet doors. Other low cost improvements include modern door handles, new faucets and wallpaper trims.

If no amount of cosmetic surgery can save your kitchen, then you have no choice but to install a new one. This is a great opportunity to re-configure the kitchen.

Once again, do not go over the top. A basic kitchen will be adequate. Astute choice of colors and the right door handles will create a great effect

BATHROOMS

Light and bright is the aim of bathroom refurbishments. As with kitchens, the condition will determine whether a face-lift or total re-fit is required.

When refurbishing, it is quicker to re-spray the tub, shower, bath and tiles.

Finish the bathroom with shiny new faucets, a new shower screen and mirror.

FLOORS

Wow factor clearly dictates that if the property has good timber floors, then polish them. The only exception to the rule is if the boards are in poor condition.

At the very least, the entrance and living areas should retain the timber floors and bedrooms can be carpeted.

DOORS

Replacement of doors will depend upon the condition of the original doors. Choose a design that is sympathetic to the property style.

WINDOW FURNISHINGS

The type of furnishings that you decide upon will ultimately depend on the type of property and whether you decide to sell or rent the property out.

Timber shutters are extremely popular and add a quality feel to any property. They can however be quite expensive, and I therefore only use them if I am reselling the property, or the property style warrants their use.

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Ask anyone who knows something about fashion and they'll tell you of the importance of accessories; without them, it's just another outfit. In property, the Sale rule applies.

Once you have dressed your property, then it's time to accessorize. Door handles, light fittings and light switches are all accessories that will enhance the appeal of your property.

When it comes to buying accessories for your property, make sure that they are only inexpensive versions and not the expensive type.

THE FINAL CLEAN UP

At the risk of repeating myself, I'll say it one last time: You only get once chance to create a good first impression. Regardless of whether you intend to sell or hold the property, you should give it a final clean inside and out.

Pay particular attention to windows, kitchen and bathroom, and floors.