Value Tips to Increase the Value of House..!

From renovating the kitchen to adding the right kind of lights, there is a lot you can do to increase your apartment's appeal, says Ms. Lakshmi Krupa

Whether you are looking to sell an apartment - flat or just living in one, it always helps to have add-ons that will not only enhance your lifestyle. But, also add to its market value. So, plan ahead and make wise moves.

Experts opine that it is better to spend a little extra right at the beginning to reap rich benefits later on.

Check for seepage..!

"Address seepage issues," says Ms. Sumitra Vasudevan, Associate, Aprobuild architects. This is among the biggest concerns of potential buyers.

"Whether it is because of rains or / water from the bathroom or / balcony of those living above your house, seepage issues need to taken care of " Ms. Sumitra Vasudevan says.

This is of more importance because you need to persuade your neighbours to make changes to their house.

"If it goes uncheked, water leakage can cause damage to the building's structure too" she also says.

Let there be light..!

Keep your apartment - flat / house well ventilated. Houses that let in a lot of light & air are undoubtedly more appealing than ones that are closed up and seem claustrophobic.

“A lot of old apartments (flats) have closed kitchens. These days people prefer open kitchens” says Ms. Anupama Monhanram, Architect, Green Evolution. It would be a good idea to open up your kitchen &  maybe even add a few bar stools across a counter, giving it a contemporary look.

“You can also add mesh doors above your bedroom doors. It will bring in a lot of light & aid cross ventilation” Ms. Anupama Mohanram adds. Add mesh doors to your wardrobe too and let your clothes breathe.

Renovate a little..!

“Renovating the house to add better tiles (vitrified tiles are in now ) and the toilets in particular will also go a long way,” Ms. Mohanram says. Adding water - saving flush systems in the toilet, creating wet & dry areas and even adding a glass enclosure to the shower can help. But, most importantly, make the living space appealing.

“Do not paint the house in any off  beat colours if you are looking to show your apartment to potential buyers” warns Ms. Mohanram.

Ms.Lakshmi adds, “It is best to go with off-white or beige for wall colours as these are neutral”

Wire it right..!

Wiring is another important area when it comes to house improvement.

“Upgrading all the electrical wiring in your house will certainly add to its value,” says Ms. Lakshmi.

Adding appliances that save electricity like star-rated air-conditioners & geysers may also help.

“Be sensible about lighting” Ms. Mohanram says, “Most often, if you keep your house ready-to-move-in, its appeal increases.”

Consider replacing large tubelights with LEDs or / CFLs. "These days even CFLs come in yellow colour. These enhance a room's look while offering long-term savings."

Focus on façade..!

Do not leave the exteriors of your house out of the equation. A coat of paint on the exterior walls, a little bit of work on the main door & floors, and even some bright lights on the corridor can go a long way in enhancing its image.

Furnish thoughtfully..!

If you are thinking of leaving behind furniture for your buyer ensure that the house is thoughtfully furnished.

“Do not overcrowd the space & add furniture that is both functional as well aesthetic” Ms. Mohanram says.

Buy furniture which will also increase in value over time, like as rosewood & teak cupboards or / tables. You can even invest in a good carpet likes hand-made Kashmiris that will gain value over the years.

 It’s in the woods..!

Adding woodwork to your apartment - flat - house will reduce the burden on the next buyer and in turn, increase its appeal. Says Ms. Lakshmi,

 “Since this a one-time investment, those buying the house from you will appreciate not having to spend on woodwork.”

Decide on the wood, laminate, etc.., based on your budget but choose something that will require low maintenance. Add wardrobes & close all lofts  in your bedrooms as well as the kitchen.

But, spend wisely. While these additions can increase the appeal of your house it may not always be possible to recover all your costs.

Src: Hindu

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