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Focus on the kitchen -

The kitchen is the heart of the home, not just where you make your food. Simply ensuring your appliances are all up to date, painting the cupboards, and updating handles can increase your home's value significantly. 

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Let there be light -

If you want to really show off your home, you need to show it in its best light, literally. Make sure there is plenty of natural light by opening curtains and blinds, and giving all the windows a good clean.

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Invest in more closet storage -

Many people forget how attractive closet organization systems are to potential buyers. You don't even have to get complicated and hire a professional. You can simply add some open shelves, drawers, and double racks for storage.

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Upgrade your appliances -

Everyone loves brand-new appliances, but don't choose just any model. It's best to buy energy-efficiency models when you're switching things out.

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Install a bathtub -

You may prefer showers, but a bathtub is a property stable. It's especially appealing for young families where bath time is part of a regular routine. 

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Add in extra sockets -

Most of us have a bunch of gadgets today, and they all need to be plugged in somewhere. Make sure that you have plenty of sockets in areas where they don't look too ugly.

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Declutter your interior -

The biggest, and arguably cheapest, improvement you can make to your home is to declutter. Have a clear-out and get rid of all the junk. 

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Get gardening -

A well-kept garden can add a lot of value, so be sure the space really looks its best. Even just removing overgrown weeds and sweeping the paths will make a big difference.

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Spruce up the bathroom -

It's no secret that the bathroom and the kitchen are the most important rooms when it comes to selling a house. Keep any improvements simple. A chic floor and a bright, clean suite can do wonders. 

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Update the boiler -

If your heating system is old or a little unpredictable, it might be worth upgrading it before you place your home on the market. 

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Fix the fencing -

If the fencing is located in your front garden, then it's the first thing people see when they approach your home. So, if yours is looking a little worse for wear, it could be time to fix it.

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Hang a mirror in the hall -

The hallway is the first part of the interior that we see. The problem is, entryways are often the darkest part of the house. Adding a mirror will make your hall look much bigger. This won't only boost its attractiveness to buyers but also its value.

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Utilize bedroom space -

Studies show that an extra bedroom could increase a home's value. So if you have a spare room that's not being put to good use, use it to make your home more desirable. 

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Paint the outside of the house -

The front of the house is the first aspect a potential buyer will see, so it’s important to make a good first impression. Adding some fresh paint can put you on the right foot.

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Refurbish the front door -

There's no point in having a nice exterior if your front door looks a mess. But simply giving the doorknob and letterbox a decent polish can be a good investment. You can also repaint the door with a fun blue shade or a darker, more classic color. 

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Give your floors some love -

Buyers will be turned off by old, stained carpets, or wooden flooring that's very scratched. While replacing the floors entirely may be too costly, a little bit of work to remove stains or scuffs can go a long way. 

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Don't forget roof repairs -

A new roof is essential for insulation and structural longevity. And while it may seem like a costly investment now, it's better to ensure your home is safe and leak-free before selling it. 

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Swap out your light bulbs -

An easy energy-saving swap you should make to boost your home's value is switching out your old light bulbs for LEDs. Not only do they use less energy, but they also last longer. 

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Open up your floor plan -

An open floor plan is more attractive because having your rooms compartmentalized can limit the social function of a house. By opening up your floor plan, you'll get a feeling of spaciousness.

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Add double glazing -

While adding double glazing is costly and doesn't add much immediate value, it will bring a long-term benefit where energy efficiency is concerned. 

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Add a downstairs cloakroom or guest bathroom -

Squeezing a downstairs toilet onto your first floor is a practical step, and nowadays considered a necessity in most homes. A cloakroom is also on many buyers' wish lists. 

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Make your home more energy-efficient -

Projects that lower utility bills can increase the value of your home, such as installing a smart thermostat. 

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Give the interior a fresh paint -

Painting is one of the cheapest and most impactful ways to add value to your home. And even if you're not selling, a fresh paint job now and again will ensure your home looks its best.

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Make the most of your storage -

When it comes to the value of homes, every inch of storage counts. Make sure to clean up any secret storage space so that potential buyers can see exactly how much storage space they'll have.

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Convert your loft -

If your loft space is big enough, then consider converting it into a dedicated bedroom, office space, or TV room. It could seriously enhance your home. 

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If it creaks or leaks, fix it -

Go through your home and see if there are any superficial defects on show, whether it's a creaking door, a leaking tap, or a loose tile. These can all dent the attractiveness to a buyer, so fix them if you can. 

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Create driveway parking -

A dedicated space to park in front of the house will likely be a big selling point. Not only will driveway parking entice more potential buyers, but it will also be far easier to maintain than endless flowerbeds. 

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Add a conservatory -

Adding a conservatory doesn't have to cost a fortune. Plus, that extra space will only add value to your property. 

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Get the decorators in -

Often, house hunters are put off by old-fashioned decor. If you have the budget to get a decorator to help you fix any obvious issues, then you'll be able to show off your property in a more appealing light.

Sources: (Homes and Gardens) (Best Life) (Love Property) 

See also: DIY danger? When you should hire a contractor

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