Seemingly Trivial, This Factor Can Actually Drive Up House Prices
Many people think that house prices are only determined by location and the size of the building. In reality, there are several things that are often considered trivial, but can actually significantly increase the selling value of property. Small changes to the appearance or function of the house can give a more attractive impression to potential buyers, thus impacting the offered price. Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Jessica Lautz explains that home staging (house arrangement) helps highlight the property’s advantages. As a result, sellers can obtain the best offers. The first impression becomes an important factor. Houses with neat new paint using neutral colours like white or grey tend to be more preferred because they give a clean and modern impression. Houses that are bright, whether from natural light or lamps, will feel more spacious and comfortable. Therefore, adding lights or enlarging window openings can increase the house’s appeal. A neat small garden or simply a clean yard without weeds can give the impression of a well-maintained house. This often becomes an added value in the eyes of buyers. Leaky taps, creaking doors, or wall cracks can lower the impression of your house. Conversely, small repairs like these can increase potential buyers’ confidence. Arranging furniture that is not cluttered makes the room feel more spacious. Houses that look open are usually more attractive and of higher value. The availability of parking space, even if simple, becomes an added value. Houses without parking areas tend to be less popular in dense areas.