Why it is important to have a property valuation.

It always makes sense to ask advice from someone who knows. Property valuation tends to be one of those areas that people think they have an idea about. After all, the neighbour sold his house for x number of pounds and there is another just down the street going for this or that. However, we have to remember that every property is unique and there are likely to be many factors, particularly internally, that may alter the possible selling price. For example:

The state and age of interior fittings and appliances, how long since kitchen or bathroom has been upgraded?

The state of the roof, windows, floors. Does it have double glazing, cavity wall insulation or modern central heating system? Has the loft been properly insulated and are the roof tiles in good repair?

The outside condition of walls, is very important, what state is the brickwork in and are the gullies and downpipes in a satisfactory state?

Does the property have a problem with rising damp, humidity or ventilation?

The size and aspect of garden

The state of internal decoration

Situation in the road, is it on a corner and if so is that a main road?

Does the property have a garage or better parking area and access to your land at the back of your property?

The time of year you are selling, market trends

There are many fairly easy reforms that you can make to improve the general appearance of your home without spending too much money and by having a professional property valuation you are likely to have a more realistic idea of the reforms and refurbishments your property may require. For example, you may be able to add a surprising amount to the estimated value of your property by doing the following:

Tidy up the garden.

Give interior walls a fresh coat of paint.

Get rid of any mould, or stains and if possible the cause of them.

Ditch scruffy furniture (dog owners take note)

Just replace cupboard doors in kitchen without having to remove the units.

Replace old taps and make sure the bathroom looks neat and tidy.

Hide all junk in a spare room; general clutter does not look good.

It makes sense to get an experienced outsider’s view of the real value of your home. They can compare against a numerous examples whilst you are likely to have a distorted view, bearing in mind the emotional aspect of deciding to sell your home. You may also be considering the amount of money your home has absorbed over the years and will be hoping to redeem that money. Getting the value wrong will either cause you to lose money you could have made, or result in you not being able to sell because your estimate is unrealistic.

If you would like Auction House London to give you a professional and comprehensive property valuation, fill out our simple auction valuation request form here.