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How can you increase property value before selling? One would immediately think about getting the property a fresh coat of paint or renovating it to improve the kerb appeal. Maybe add another room to expand the living space or add flowers to the front garden.
But there’s more to increasing your property value apart from a home improvement. It’s called renting.
Letting before selling your home is one way to boost its sale price. Apart from earning through rent while you wait around 17 to 34 weeks to sell a property, you’re also setting it up to increase its value. With a higher value, you can get a better asking price for it.
In this article, you’ll learn why letting your property is the right move, especially if you want to increase property value before selling. You’ll learn how much you can sell a property in London and what you can do to maximise your property’s sale price. You’ll get value-boosting strategies to turn your property into a high-yield investment that stands out to potential buyers.
How Much Can You Sell A Property In London?
Data reveals the average selling price of a London property is £683,860. The prices vary depending on the type of property being sold: detached (£1,216,131), semi-detached (£766,986), terraced (£766,082) and flats (£510,507). These figures come from data gathered from April 2024 to April 2025.
With more landlords in London preparing to sell, the competition is fierce. Getting the highest possible price for your property can be a challenge if you don’t have a strategy in place.
Factors affecting your property’s sale price
Before you set a price to sell your home, you need to identify the factors that can affect your property’s value. Apart from the market movement, location, property type and size, the condition of the property plays an important factor in the property’s sale price.
This specifically refers to the following:
- Kerb appeal. Having an attractive front garden is important, as well as a fresh lick of paint and a clean front door – these will give potential buyers a good first impression. The visual appeal is also important in defining the perceived property value.
- Energy efficiency. Local building regulations are starting to be stricter when it comes to sustainability. If your property is energy efficient, that would increase your property value. This means having double glazing, efficient heating systems, proper insulation, etc.
- Special features. Having bathtubs, a cosy fireplace and other special amenities can add value to your home. Even uniquely designed cabinet doors will boost the perceived value, allowing you to increase the sale price.
- Living space. The bigger the living space, the bigger the house will look. Loft conversions and open-plan living rooms will give the illusion of space. It increases the property’s square footage, allowing you to set a higher sale price. If you have a planning permission for extensions, this can also be an added value.
Apart from all these, the presentation of the property is also important. Make sure any special features are highlighted and made evident so potential buyers can recognise them during the viewing process.
Can letting help you increase property value?
Yes, but only if you do it right. Renting out your property on a short or even a mid-term basis keeps it occupied and cared for. Since it’s not tied to long-term letting agreements, the property is flexible enough to accommodate potential buyer viewings. Short-term letting also includes housekeeping services in between guests. That means the property will always be in good condition and presentable.
How Can Renting Boost A Property’s Perceived Value?
Renting can boost your property’s perceived value, allowing you to set a higher selling price when you sell your home. The idea that the property can generate income is a good way to attract buyers. It shows the property is in demand, especially if you can show a high occupancy rate. It comes off as a financially rewarding investment that can appeal to both first-time buyers and investors.
Regular maintenance is the key
As mentioned, regular maintenance is the key to keeping the property in good condition. When you rent out your home, either for a short or mid-term basis, you’ll rely on property professionals to ensure it’s presentable enough for the next guest or tenant.
What does regular maintenance entail?
- Routine cleaning. Housekeeping cleans the property in between bookings. This ensures the property gets regular cleaning so it stays spotless for viewings. At City Relay, we follow a rule where every property goes through a deep clean every 4 to 6 months, which helps uncover any maintenance issues and repairs.
- Minor repairs. With trained housekeeping staff visiting the property regularly, there’s a chance to spot minor repairs immediately. It uncovers wear and tear early so it can be promptly addressed to avoid major damage.
- Staging and styling. Since the property is constantly marketed for new bookings, it’s always professionally staged. This ensures a consistent visual appeal that could lead to a higher perceived value and sale price.
- Energy checks. The professionals cleaning and maintaining the property will also check appliances and equipment to ensure outdated ones are promptly replaced. This will not only keep the property modern, but it will also improve energy efficiency, so your property gets a competitive edge.
- Guest feedback. Because of the condition of the property, guests and tenants are more likely to enjoy a great stay. This can lead to feedback that’ll give the perceived value of your property a boost. Also, having different guests book a stay means more people will experience the property, and hopefully provide feedback on any issues that might need attention.
How To Maximise Your Property’s Selling Price
If you’re preparing to sell your property, you need to think about the selling price so your local estate agent can give you expert advice on whether it’s competitive or not.
As you discuss your preferred price with your local agent, consider the different ways you can maximise your property’s selling price.
Repaint the property
A fresh coat of paint can transform rooms and make them look more premium than before. Choosing the right colours also makes a space look bigger and brighter. It also makes any room look modern and new.
Repair damages
Any wear and tear should be promptly addressed and repaired. This won’t just protect the property’s value. It’ll also keep you from the unnecessary expense of having to repair major damage to the property.
Knock down a wall
Make the property look bigger by opting for an open plan layout. Combine the living room and dining area. This will let you command a higher selling price because of the increase in living space footage.
Modernise the kitchen
Install modern kitchen appliances – if your budget can afford it. The kitchen is an important factor in making a buying decision, so make this area as impressive as possible.
Add a workspace
Having a home office is an added appeal, especially for professionals and business travellers. Buyers will also appreciate having an existing workspace so they don’t have to design it themselves.
Place plants indoors
Add life to the property by putting live plants indoors. Put some by the door, in room corners and even on countertops. This will make the house look cosy and appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
Improve the kerb appeal
Keep the external part of the property as visually appealing as possible. Repaint the front door, improve the front garden and even consider changing the external lights. Make sure the property gives a great first impression.
Restore period features
If the property has period features (antique pieces, fireplaces, stone flooring, original floorboards), restore them so they add to the appeal of the home. Research their history so you know how to restore them properly.
Get The Highest Selling Price For Your Property
You deserve to get the best price for the property you’re selling. Making sure the property’s value is high allows you to command a higher sale price. Of course, this means you have to spend on renovations and upgrades. Since renovations and upgrades require funds, renting your property before selling allows you to make the expense worthwhile.
It’s not just about getting back the funds you spent. Short and mid-term letting ensures your property’s value increases through professional styling, regular housekeeping and timely maintenance.
A company like City Relay can help you manage the rental property while giving you expert advice on how to keep your property market-ready at all times. We handle everything from housekeeping and maintenance to guest communication, pricing and staging. By partnering with a reputable property management company, you can be free from the daily rental operations and be able to focus on selling the property.
Get in touch with us so we can discuss how you can earn through letting strategies while maximising your property’s selling price.
