How to Add Value to a Flat

Adding value to a flat can be a strategic move, whether you’re preparing to sell or simply looking to make a smart investment in your property. Unlike houses, flats often come with unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to boosting their worth. Maximising space, enhancing interiors, and improving energy efficiency are all crucial considerations that can make a significant difference.

In this blog, we explore practical strategies to increase the value of your flat, so you can make informed decisions that not only enhance your daily routine but also appeal to future buyers or renters.

Maximise space

One way to add value to a flat is to ensure you are making efficient use of the space. Declutter as much as possible and utilise smart storage solutions. This could include opting for fitted storage over freestanding, which will ensure no space is wasted. You could also choose multi-purpose furniture, such as a bed with storage drawers or a storage bench.

You can also utilise vertical space for storage and shelving. This could include floating shelves, which can be used for storage but also to showcase ornaments and add to the interior style. You could also incorporate hanging hooks and wall-mounted cabinets as ways of adding more storage without taking up floor space.

Another way you could maximise space in a flat to help add value is to consider open plan living. This would be a more complex renovation project, but by removing unnecessary partitions or non-structural walls, you can help a flat to feel more spacious. This also gives more flexibility over furniture layout, which can be more appealing to potential buyers as it allows them to customise their interiors to their preferences.

Upgrade interiors

One effective way to add value to a flat is to modernise the bathroom and kitchen. These rooms are often the spaces that potential buyers and tenants will scrutinise the most, so upgrading to modern appliances and fixtures can make a big impact. You can find out more about the effectiveness of this type of renovations in our guides: Should You Renovate the Kitchen Before Selling? and Should You Renovate the Bathroom Before Selling?.

A cost-effective way of increasing the value of a flat is to refresh the décor and finishes. This can be an easy way of transforming the look for the interiors, making it feel more modern and attractive without the need for major renovations. As well as a fresh lick of paint, you could also consider upgrading the fixtures, such as the light fittings, taps, and interior doors.

Energy efficiency and sustainability

There are a number of ways you can add value to your home by improving the energy efficiency. One simple and effective way it to install double-glazing, replacing any single-glazed windows. This can help to keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter, keeping energy bills low, as well as helping with soundproofing. This will be one area that can make a flat much more appealing to potential buyers and tenants.

You could also upgrade to energy-efficient appliances. Energy-saving appliances such as fridges, washing machines and dishwashers will reduce water and electricity consumption, lowering the impact on the environment as well as lowering energy bills.

You could also integrate smart home technology throughout the fridge. This adds convenience to the property, as well as energy efficiency. This could include smart thermostats, lighting, and energy monitors to allow homeowners and tenants to control and optimise their energy use. This can help to make the flat more appealing as well as future-proofing the property.

Outdoor space

Where possible, adding and enhancing outdoor space can really help to boost the value of a flat. If the flat already has a balcony or terrace, ensure you’re making the most of it with features such as comfortable furniture, outdoor lighting, and decking to make it more inviting. For flats that don’t have outdoor space, it may be possible to add a Juliet balcony, so this could be an option worth exploring.

Plants and greenery are a simple way of revitalising outdoor space, however small it may be. Add planters, window boxes, or vertical wall planters to add a touch of nature and contribute to a more serene atmosphere. Climbing plants can work beautifully in tiny spaces, optimising what’s available without overwhelming it.

What to consider before you make improvements to your flat

There are a few things to consider and evaluate before you commit to making improvements to your flat.

Leasehold and freehold restrictions

It’s essential to fully understand any leasehold and freehold restrictions that are in place before you undertake any renovations to a flat. Many flats under a leasehold will come with specific conditions that will restrict changes you can make to the structure of the flat, as well as alterations to common areas. You may need to seek permission from the freeholder and/or managing agent before you make modifications.

Freehold flats will typically provide more flexibility over renovations, but you should still check the relevant documents for any covenants or restrictions that may be in place.

Planning permission and building regulations

Planning permissions and building regulations are key aspects to consider when starting any major works. If you are making any changes to the external appearance of the flat, planning permission will usually be required. This could include modifications such as installing new windows or adding a balcony. You should contact your local authority to understand what permissions may be required for the renovations you want to undertake.

Building regulations will need to be adhered to, to ensure that the renovation meets safety and structural standards. This will include aspects such as fire safety and structural integrity. Again, you should consult with your local authority as well as possibly hiring a professional to ensure your building work is compliant with all requirements.

Local property market and tenants

Before you start making modifications to your flat, it can be helpful to understand the local property market. You should research the preferences and needs of your target audience to ensure you are enhancing your property’s appeal in the right way. For example, if you are targeting young professionals, you may want to enhance your flat with modern amenities and open plan living. However, if you are targeting families, you may instead want to focus on adding in storage and additional bedrooms. Look at the buyer or renter demographics in your area, so you can tailor the modifications to the preferences of the potential occupants.

If you have a buy-to-let property, you should focus on adding features that are attractive to tenants. This could include energy-efficient appliances, modern interiors, and well-designed storage solutions, which can all make your property stand out on the rental market.

JB Kind has a huge range of internal doors in a variety of styles, perfect for enhancing the interiors of your flat. Download our brochure or contact us to find out more.