Should You Refurbish Your Property?

18 August 2021

Property refurbishments can be exciting, but they can become time consuming and expensive. If you want to refurbish your home for any reason, whether it is to sell or just change things up for yourself, it’s important you consider your motivations and how much you wish to spend. 

 

The Difference Between Renovation and Refurbishment

 

The largest difference between renovating a property and refurbishing it is the scale of work done. A renovation commonly includes structural changes, these could include stripping a property back to bare bones, adding more space or reconfiguring the existing footprint.

 

On the other hand, refurbishments tend to be less intrusive and usually consist of replacing or upgrading things already in place such as: 

• Repairing or replacing broken tiles or scratched flooring
• Redecorating like painting, wallpapering and plastering
• Cleaning, repairing and replacing items or furniture 

 

The Price of Refurbishing Your Home

 

Refurbishing your property can be expensive but shouldn’t be as expensive as a full renovation project. A simple refurbishment project, perhaps minor painting and decorating, could cost just a few hundred pounds or even less!

 

A bigger refurbishment however, could consist of painting, decorating, repairing or replacing flooring or tiles, and upgrading your furniture is likely to cost a few thousand pounds.

 

Advantages of Refurbishing Your Home

 

Refurbishing your property can create a number of advantages quickly, instead of undertaking a full-scale renovation project.

 

1. Improvements Fast

 

If you’re looking for a quick sale, refurbishment is a fantastic and time-effective way to lift your property before it goes to market.

 

The majority of refurbishment tasks can be completed quickly, which means you won’t have to delay your sale and can capitalise if the market conditions are in your favour. 

 

2. Cost-effective

 

A small scale home refurbishment can be far more cost-effective if you are happy with the layout and functionality of your property and just simply wish to improve is aesthetically. Renovations can also take time and can increase in cost quickly if surprises come along the way. 

 

3. Less rules and limitations

 

Refurbishment work on your property is unlikely to require planning permission. In comparison, larger renovations often require planning permission which can elongate the process overall. However, if you are undertaking major gas or electrical work during your refurbishment, you may need Building Regulations approval.

 

4. Homely feel

 

A refurbishment is sometimes necessary to make your property feel more like a home. As the years go by, before you know it, your property can start to look old fashioned and shabby.

 

Undertaking refurbishments can bring your property up to date and make it feel homely again.

 

5. Add value to your property

 

Even though refurbishments often involve less work than full renovations, it is still possible they add value to your property.

 

Well cared for period features are becoming increasingly popular with buyers and if your homes character stands out against the competition, buyers may be willing to pay the premium.

 

It is also worth considering minor upgrades to key rooms such as your kitchen, replacing taps or light fixtures can make a large difference for minimal cost.

 

6. Attractive to buyers

 

The majority of buyers will decide to view your property based on its marketing photos alone. 

 

Refurbishing and upgrading your property’s décor can ensure it looks attractive to buyers and increase your chances of a quick sale.

 

7. Exterior kerb appeal

 

Your homes exterior is the first component viewers see. A fresh lick of paint on the front door, jet washed brickwork and a clean and tidy garden could make all the difference when it comes to those vital first impressions. 

 

8. Fewer maintenance costs

 

Refurbishing your property can reduce the amount of ongoing maintenance it requires. The tap that requires tightening every month, or the tiles that have been replaced seven times but continue to fall off can become annoyances of the past by refurbishing.

 

9. Make a fresh start

 

A successful refurbishment can make your home feel like a brand new property. If your home is feeling stale or dull, a fresh coat of paint or new carpet can brighten up your property and give those who live in it a real lift!