Unlocking your home's potential is all about making improvements that increase its value, functionality, and appeal. Whether you're a first home buyer, property investor, or preparing to sell, smart upgrades can make a big difference. To help you get it right, here are five essential do's and don'ts to ensure your efforts add real value.

Do: Know the Current Market and Target Buyers

Before undertaking any major home improvements, take time to research the Australian real estate market. It's important to identify who your target buyers are and what they value most in a property.

Are you in a family-oriented suburb where backyard space reigns supreme? Or perhaps you're in a bustling, trendy neighbourhood that young professionals gravitate toward? Understanding your prospective buyers will help you tailor your upgrades to what appeals most to them.

Analyse recent sales in your area to determine the features driving higher property values. Are large outdoor entertaining areas popular? Is sustainable living in demand? Seek guidance from a local real estate expert, such as your local Harcourts agent as they will be able to provide real time insights into buyer preferences and local market trends.

Do: Prioritise Key Improvements

Not all improvements offer the same return on investment, so identify the areas that will have the greatest impact. Kitchens, bathrooms and the exterior all play a huge role in how potential buyers perceive value.

Consider these high-ROI (Return On Investment) upgrades:

• Repainting the exterior for updated kerb appeal
• Upgrading your kitchen with modern designs, fixtures, or energy-efficient appliances
• Renovating bathrooms with contemporary features or adding new lighting for a fresh, inviting look

Don't overlook the eco-conscious Australian market, either. Energy-saving additions like solar panels, efficient insulation, or double-glazed windows not only entice buyers but can also help differentiate your property as environmentally friendly.

The Australian Government is working with state and territory governments to improve home energy efficiency. The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) provides reliable energy performance ratings for new homes and major renovations. Your home’s rating may affect its value.

Don’t: Overcapitalise

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when improving their property is overcapitalisation—spending more on improvements than the value they add to the home.

While it's tempting to go all-out with luxurious upgrades, these may not always attract a sufficient return. Stick to a clear budget, balance the scale of your improvements with your property's existing value, and align your upgrades with neighbourhood trends.

To avoid costly mistakes, consult your local Harcourts agent to get their perspective based on what’s happening in the market, as well as ask them if they know of trusted contractors they could recommend to ensure you’re making informed decisions.

Do: Work With Experts

Your home is likely your most valuable asset and cutting corners with inexperienced contractors or designers can result in costly mistakes. Work with trusted, skilled professionals who will help you make informed choices that maximise both your budget and your home’s potential.

Whether you're partnering with architects, builders, or real estate agents, look for verified expertise within your area. Your local Harcourts office will understand buyer preferences and can guide you through the process of making strategic upgrades.

Don’t: Forget to Stage Your Home for Sale

After completing your home improvements, the work doesn’t stop there. Staging your home provides the finishing touch, allowing you to showcase its full potential and create a warm, inviting atmosphere for buyers.

Key tips for effective staging include:

• Decluttering: Clear out personal items to create a clean, neutral space
• Depersonalising: Remove family photos or eccentric decor so buyers can envision their own life in your home
• Rearranging Furniture: Arrange spaces to highlight functionality and flow

For those who want to go the extra mile, hiring a professional home staging company can elevate your home’s presentation and significantly impact buyers' perceptions which could be just the edge you need to secure a premium sale price.

Smart Planning, Big Returns

When it comes to adding value to your home, Harcourts is here to help. Book a free property appraisal to find out what your property is worth. Knowing the market value will help you set the right sale price, refinance your home, or plan improvements to boost its worth.

Ready to take the next step with your home loan? Contact a Mortgage Express broker today for expert advice and tailored solutions to fit your financial needs.

While all care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, no warranty is given as to the accuracy of the information and no responsibility is taken by Finservice Pty Ltd (Mortgage Express) for any errors or omissions. This publication does not constitute personalised financial advice. It may not be relevant to individual circumstances. Nothing in this publication is, or should be taken as, an offer, invitation, or recommendation to buy, sell, or retain any investment in or make any deposit with any person. You should seek professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters dealt within this publication. A Disclosure Statement is available on request and free of charge.

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