As the Christmas break looms popular beachside destinations are becoming heavily booked and for those who live in those regions, simple renovations, design changes and makeovers could make all the difference to their property values.
Interior designer Carole Tretheway says: “Kitchen and bathroom renovations are often the starting point and it’s important to note that choosing the best quality finishes and fixtures within your budget will add more value in the long term than the latest tile trend.
“In locations where the outdoor lifestyle is important, creating a harmonious link between indoors and outdoors is very valuable, with external spaces such as decks and terraces being used as second living and dining areas.
“Outdoor kitchens are also a popular and worthy addition, with families cooking as well as eating and entertaining outside.
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“Choosing appropriate finishes for external areas that are hardy and durable is extremely important in achieving longevity, especially in coastal conditions.
“Including a ‘mud room’ off the laundry and near the entry is a fantastic addition, being the perfect place to kick off sandy shoes, towel the dog down and store exercise gear after a walk on the beach without traipsing sand and clutter through the house.
“Homes in popular holiday locations often end up hosting large family gatherings at Christmas or New Year so if some of the other bedrooms are able to have semi-self-contained facilities like a kitchenette or separate entry that can allow privacy for different family groups that can be a big asset.”
Ms Tretheway says multi-use rooms are a great option if there are no spare bedrooms.
“If you can make your property stand out from the crowd it creates greater demand and therefore can attract higher rental, better reviews [on AirBnb] and increased levels of return guests,” she says.
“Clients who have decided to commit property upgrades and makeovers are reaping the rewards from their investment.
“It’s also a good way to contribute to the general upkeep of the property.
“You can add considerable value to your property with anything from a major kitchen or bathroom renovation, to minor improvements such as updating lighting, furniture or decor items."
Ms Tretheway says engaging a professional designer did not have to be expensive and could often save money.
“We’ve seen so many examples where owners have tried to update a property themselves and then call us for help to fix it,” she says.
“It’s often much easier, quicker and cheaper to use an expert and then get the property back on the rental market sooner.”
