Apartment renovation: increase the value of your property with intelligent strategies

Planning: define your objectives

Before starting any reform, it's essential to clearly define your objectives. Are you renovating the apartment to sell, rent or improve your quality of life? Each of these objectives requires different approaches.

• Renovation for sale or rent: prioritize repairs that add value to the property, such as the improvement of electrical and hydraulic conditions, in addition to high-quality finishes that impress potential buyers or tenants.
• Reform for personal use: here, the priority may be comfort and personalization, such as changes in the layout of spaces and aesthetic updates that reflect your personal style.

Now the demand for properties that are well located and in good condition is high, making basic and aesthetic improvements can be an accurate strategy to enhance the value of the apartment.

Start with basic needs

Focusing on the basic needs of the property is essential before any aesthetic change. According to experts, an apartment with structural problems loses value significantly in the market.

Electrical and hydraulic installations

• Electrical network: make sure that the electrical network is in good condition, avoiding overloads and short circuits. In older apartments, rewiring may be necessary to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the equipment.
• Hydraulic installations: check the condition of the pipes and faucets, and make the necessary repairs to prevent leaks, which could devalue the property and cause future problems.

These basic corrections can increase the rental or sale price of the apartment by up to 15%, making it an essential investment.

Repair or replace floors and tiles

Damaged floors and tiles compromise the appearance and safety of the apartment. Replace cracked or stained parts and, if possible, invest in floors that can be installed without removing the old ones, to save time and money.

The materials chosen for these areas must be durable and easy to clean.

Aesthetic renewal: visible enhancement

After resolving the structural issues, it's time to focus on the aesthetics of the apartment. Small details can make a big difference, and visual appeal is crucial to attracting buyers or tenants.

Neutral and modern painting

Painting is one of the most visible aspects of any property. To maximize valuation, bet on neutral colors such as white, beige or gray. These colors give a sense of cleanliness and spaciousness, in addition to allowing future residents to better visualize their own decorations in the space.

Tip: choose quality paints and consider applying washable paints, which facilitate the maintenance of the property. A simple paint renovation can increase the rental or sale price by around 10%.

Doors and windows in good condition

Doors and windows in poor condition may alienate potential stakeholders. Handles, latches, and locks should work perfectly. Replacing or repairing these items can be a simple and cost-effective solution to improve the appearance and functionality of the apartment.

Smart investments: more value for the property

If the objective is to maximize the value of the property, consider making small changes that bring a difference to the apartment.

Built-in furniture and shelves

Built-in furniture, such as kitchen cabinets and wardrobes, is increasingly in demand, especially in small apartments. They optimize space and provide a sense of organization. Well placed shelves can also be an extra attraction, giving the property practicality.

Heating and air conditioning

Installing heating and cooling systems suitable for the city of Lisbon can be a big difference. Gas heating is an efficient and valued solution in the region, especially during the colder months. Air conditioning is also a plus, especially in summer when the air can be quite hot.

Close balconies

If the condominium allows, closing balconies can be a strategy to increase the useful space of the apartment and value the property by up to 20%. This change is especially interesting, where smaller apartments are more common.

Special care: the “invisible” reform

Not all of the improvements are immediately visible, but many of them make a big difference to the quality of life inside the apartment. These “invisible” repairs are crucial, both for resident comfort and to prevent future problems.

Waterproofing

The use of waterproofing products can prevent problems with seeps and mold, especially in older apartments. This type of improvement increases the durability of the building structure and improves internal conditions, without the need for major interventions.

Washable paints

In areas with high circulation or exposed to dirt, such as corridors and kitchens, the use of washable paints facilitates maintenance and ensures that the property remains in good condition for longer. This can be a big draw for potential tenants.

Plan the reform well

To ensure the success of the reform and avoid problems, it is crucial to make good financial and execution planning. Many renovations may require licenses, and it's important to obtain all necessary permissions before starting.

Budget

Prepare financially to cover all renovation costs, including quality materials and skilled labor. Leave a safety margin in the budget to deal with unforeseen events, such as the need to replace more materials than planned.

Licenses and authorization

If you are carrying out structural changes or interventions in outdoor areas, be sure to obtain all necessary permits from the condominium and local authorities. This will avoid delays and potential fines.

Conclusion

Renovating an apartment is an excellent way to value the property, whether for sale or rent. With careful planning and a focus on the right improvements, you can maximize return on investment and ensure that your property is highly competitive in the market.

Na New House, we help our clients find the best solutions for each type of objective, while respecting the budget and needs. Get in touch today and let's work together to transform your apartment!