How to Increase the Value of Your Investment Property Before You Sell

1. Add usable surface areas

People love having extra spots they can actually use. Think of a small desk area where someone can work from home, a breakfast bar to sip coffee in the morning, or even a few extra shelves to store or display things. It doesn’t have to be anything big or fancy.

You’re not adding more square footage, but you are making the space feel more practical and comfortable. And that’s what really matters to buyers and renters.

Here are a few simple ideas to try:

• Install a floating shelf or two in an empty corner
• Add a bench with storage by the front door for shoes and bags
• Set up a small coffee or tea station on a blank kitchen wall

It’s all about making the most of what you already have and helping the space feel more useful, flexible, and ready for everyday life.

2. Clean it up and declutter

Here’s one of the easiest things you can do to boost your property’s value — give it a good clean and clear the clutter. It doesn’t cost a thing, but it can totally change how your space looks and feels.

Take a walk through your place and really look at it. Are your kitchen counters packed with stuff? Are there shoes piling up by the door? What about random items sitting in corners that don’t really need to be there?

Start small:

• Clear off the counters so they look neat and spacious
• Pack away personal photos and decorations
• Get rid of anything you’re not using or don’t need right now

3. Let more light in

Let’s be honest, no one walks into a dark, shadowy room and thinks, “Wow, this place feels amazing.” Light has a huge impact on how a home feels. Bright spaces look bigger, cleaner, and way more welcoming.

Start by making the most of the natural light you already have. Simple changes can make a big difference.

Here are a few easy ideas:

• Open the blinds all the way to let in more sunlight
• Switch out heavy or dark curtains for something light and airy
• Give your windows a good clean, both inside and outside
• Hang a mirror on the wall to bounce light around the room

4. Contact an interior designer and decorator

You don’t need to bring in a designer for a full makeover. Sometimes just a quick walk-through or even a one-hour consultation can make a big difference.

A good designer will help you figure out what’s actually worth updating and what you can leave alone. They’ll spot the little things that might not be obvious but can really affect how your space looks and feels to someone seeing it for the first time.

Even small changes, like moving furniture around or choosing the right paint color, can make your home feel more put together and appealing. If you’re not sure where to start, having a professional take a look can save you time, money, and a lot of guesswork.

5. Fix up any issues

Loose doorknobs. Leaky taps. A door that sticks or squeaks when you open it.

These might seem like little things, but to a buyer, they can be red flags. People start thinking, “If this is broken, what else might be wrong with the place?” That’s not the kind of doubt you want in their mind.

Take a slow walk through your property and pay attention to the details:

• Do all the lights and switches work properly?
• Are there any drips, leaks, or strange sounds?
• Do doors, drawers, and handles open smoothly?

Fixing these small issues doesn’t cost much, but it shows that the home has been looked after. And that’s something buyers always notice. A well-maintained home feels more trustworthy and move-in ready.

6. Refresh and Repaint

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders. It instantly makes your home look cleaner, brighter, and more up to date. If your walls are looking a little tired or the colors feel too bold or personal, a quick refresh can completely change the vibe. Stick with simple, neutral tones like soft white, light grey, or beige. These colors help rooms feel bigger and give buyers an easier time imagining their own furniture in the space. And don’t forget the front door. A fresh pop of color there can make a strong first impression before they even step inside.