Whether you’re selling your home, refinancing, or looking to improve your property’s market value, preparing for a property valuation can have a significant impact on the final assessment. Small upgrades, maintenance work, and strategic renovations can add thousands of dollars to your valuation in Perth’s competitive real estate market.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to increase your property’s value before a valuation, helping you secure higher returns and better financial outcomes.
Enhance Street Appeal
Why It Matters:
The first impression of your home significantly influences a valuer’s assessment. A well-maintained exterior can immediately add value to your property.
Ways to Improve Street Appeal:
- Maintain the lawn and landscaping – Trim hedges, mow the lawn, and plant fresh greenery
- Repaint the front door and exterior – A fresh coat of paint can modernise and refresh the property’s look
- Upgrade outdoor lighting – Well-lit pathways and gardens enhance aesthetics and security
- Repair fences, driveways, and footpaths – Fix cracks, repaint, and ensure everything is well-maintained
Improve Interior Presentation
Why It Matters:
A well-presented home feels more inviting and spacious, leading to higher valuation estimates.
Ways to Improve Interior Appeal:
- Declutter and depersonalise – Remove excess furniture and personal items to create an open space
- Deep clean the home – Pay special attention to carpets, windows, and kitchen areas
- Apply fresh paint in neutral colours – Light tones make rooms feel bigger and brighter
- Ensure proper lighting – Open curtains, clean windows, and add soft lighting where necessary
Conduct Minor Repairs and Maintenance
Why It Matters:
Small defects can lower your valuation by signalling poor property upkeep. Fixing minor issues ensures a better impression.
Common Repairs to Address:
- Fix leaking taps and plumbing issues
- Repair cracked walls, ceilings, or peeling paint
- Ensure all doors and windows open and close smoothly
- Check electrical outlets and replace faulty light fixtures
Upgrade Key Areas (Kitchen & Bathrooms)
Why It Matters:
The kitchen and bathroom are among the biggest value-adding areas in a home. Even minor updates can significantly boost your valuation.
Cost-Effective Kitchen Upgrades:
- Replace outdated cabinet handles and taps
- Upgrade benchtops if they appear worn or outdated
- Install modern splashbacks and lighting
Simple Bathroom Improvements:
- Re-grout tiles and clean shower screens
- Upgrade taps, mirrors, and vanity fixtures
- Ensure all plumbing and drainage is in working order
Improve Energy Efficiency
Why It Matters:
Energy-efficient homes are becoming increasingly valuable in Perth’s real estate market, especially with rising energy costs.
Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency:
- Install LED lighting to reduce energy consumption
- Upgrade insulation to improve temperature control
- Consider solar panels for long-term value and energy savings
- Seal windows and doors to improve energy efficiency
Maximise Storage Space
Why It Matters:
Buyers and valuers appreciate well-organised storage solutions, which enhance the home’s functionality.
Ways to Improve Storage:
- Install built-in wardrobes or shelving in bedrooms
- Expand kitchen storage with additional cabinets or pantry space
- Use smart storage options in smaller rooms to create a sense of spaciousness
Highlight Outdoor Living Areas
Why It Matters:
With Perth’s warm climate, outdoor spaces are highly desirable. Well-maintained outdoor areas add significant value to your property.
Ways to Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces:
- Clean and maintain patios, decks, and balconies
- Invest in outdoor furniture or a BBQ area
- Add potted plants or a garden feature for extra appeal
Present Well on Valuation Day
Why It Matters:
Even if your home is well-maintained, how it looks on valuation day can influence the final result.
How to Prepare for Valuation Day:
- Ensure the home is spotless – A clean and tidy space leaves a lasting impression
- Allow natural light in – Open blinds and curtains
- Provide easy access to all areas – Avoid locked rooms or blocked spaces
- Be available to answer valuer questions – Highlight recent upgrades or property improvements
Understand Local Market Trends
Why It Matters:
Your home’s value is influenced by market conditions and recent sales in your area.
How to Stay Informed:
- Research recent sales in your suburb to understand pricing trends
- Follow Perth’s real estate market reports for updates
- Consult a local valuer for a pre-valuation assessment
How Much Value Can Improvements Add?
Even small upgrades and repairs can add thousands to a property’s valuation.
| Improvement Type | Estimated Value Increase |
| Basic cosmetic updates (painting, cleaning) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Minor kitchen and bathroom updates | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Landscaping and outdoor improvements | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Structural repairs and renovations | $20,000 – $50,000+ |
Larger renovations may provide higher returns, but even simple, cost-effective upgrades can improve valuation outcomes.
Conclusion
Making small yet effective upgrades before a property valuation in Perth can lead to better financial outcomes when selling, refinancing, or investing.
- Improve street appeal and presentation for a positive first impression
- Make cost-effective upgrades to kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas
- Work with a professional property valuer to assess market trends and improvements
If you’re preparing for a property valuation in Perth, making these strategic changes can help maximise your home’s market value.
