Six affordable ways to increase the value of your Portuguese property

Every year, millions of euros are invested in improving detached and semi-detached houses to increase their market value for sale or rental purposes, trying to make the most of the improvements made. Is it really worth investing so much money in a house and not enjoying the works though?

Here are a few examples of projects designed to increase the value of homes, according to data from interior design company Zaask.

The entrance door

In single-family homes, it is important that the door is in good aesthetic condition and that it guarantees safety in the house.

You have two possibilities: buy a door and then hire a professional to install it for you or let the professional do all the work, including the purchase of materials. This second option is more expensive than the first, but it does save you having to buy the door yourself and prevents you potentially buying a product that doesn't fit exactly what your home needs.

Insulate your home

Especially if there are attic rooms or if the property is old. A house that is well-insulated saves between 10% and 50% in electricity and heating costs and ensures that there is a good temperature, both in the hottest and coldest months of the year. A well-insulated house is a must for a person to want to start living in it.

Change the garage door

These days, garage doors are much stronger, safer and better-insulating than those built just 15 years ago. A new door will work better, give more security to the home and make the exterior of your home more attractive.

Install new windows

New windows not only improve the value of the property, but also assure the person who buys it that the price of the house ensures the best quality and they will be make that money back with all the savings they’ll make on bills.

If you've changed the windows recently, it's worth checking that they’re still insulating properly, performing a maintenance check, which may also include the rest of the house.

Little changes in the kitchen

A house having a good kitchen is often one of the most requested features by people looking to buy. Kitchen renovation covers as many aspects as you can imagine and the budget can be modified depending on what exactly you want to improve.

You can make small (but no less important) changes such as changing cabinets, replacing the worktop, installing an induction hob, painting the wall a warm colour or changing the floor.

Landscaping the garden

If you have an outdoor space that you have recently stopped caring for, remember that the garden is the first thing people see when they arrive at a property (unless it’s at the back). It is essential that it is in good condition because it makes the house more welcoming and facilitates the use of the land available.

If it is summer, don’t think twice about planting flowers to give a touch of colour and joy to the outside of the house. A small change can make a big difference.