A property valuation can significantly impact your selling price, refinancing terms, and investment potential. Whether you’re preparing for a home sale, mortgage application, or investment assessment, making small but effective improvements can boost your property’s market value.
Property valuers assess location, condition, size, market demand, and recent sales data when determining property worth. While you can’t change your property’s location, you can enhance its appeal and functionality to improve its valuation.
This article explores practical ways to increase your property’s value before a valuation in Northern Territory.
Improve Street Appeal
Why It Matters:
First impressions count. A well-maintained exterior can immediately add thousands of dollars to your valuation.
Ways to Improve Street Appeal:
- Maintain the lawn and garden – Trim overgrown trees, mow the lawn, and plant flower
- Paint the exterior and front door – Fresh paint can modernise and refresh your property
- Upgrade outdoor lighting – Well-lit pathways improve security and curb appeal
- Repair driveways, fences, and gates – Fix cracks and repaint where necessary
Enhance Interior Presentation
Why It Matters:
A clean and well-presented interior makes a strong impression on valuers and can significantly improve property value.
Ways to Improve Interior Appeal:
- Declutter and depersonalise – Remove excess furniture and personal items
- Deep clean the home – Pay attention to carpets, tiles, and windows
- Apply fresh paint in neutral tones – Lighter shades make rooms feel larger and brighter
- Maximise natural light – Open curtains and clean windows to enhance brightness
Conduct Minor Repairs and Maintenance
Why It Matters:
Small defects can lower your valuation by indicating poor maintenance. Addressing minor issues can prevent devaluation.
Common Repairs to Address:
- Fix leaking taps and plumbing issues
- Repair cracked walls, ceilings, and peeling paint
- Ensure doors and windows open and close properly
- Check electrical outlets and light fixtures for faults
Upgrade Key Areas (Kitchen & Bathrooms)
Why It Matters:
Kitchens and bathrooms play a major role in property valuations. Even small updates can boost your home’s market value.
Cost-Effective Kitchen Upgrades:
- Replace cabinet handles and fixtures
- Upgrade benchtops if outdated or damaged
- Install modern lighting and splashbacks
Simple Bathroom Improvements:
- Re-grout tiles and clean shower screens
- Install new taps, mirrors, and vanity fixtures
- Ensure plumbing and drainage are in top condition
Improve Energy Efficiency
Why It Matters:
Energy-efficient homes attract higher valuations, especially in NT’s extreme climate.
Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency:
- Install LED lighting to reduce power consumption
- Upgrade insulation to regulate temperature
- Consider solar panels to enhance long-term property value
- Seal windows and doors to prevent air leaks
Showcase Storage Space
Why It Matters:
Storage is a key selling point for valuers, particularly in family homes.
Ways to Improve Storage:
- Install built-in wardrobes in bedrooms
- Maximise pantry space with additional shelving
- Utilise smart storage solutions in smaller rooms
Highlight Outdoor Living Areas
Why It Matters:
Outdoor spaces are highly valued in NT due to the warm climate and lifestyle focus on outdoor entertaining.
Ways to Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces:
- Clean and maintain patios, decks, and balconies
- Invest in outdoor furniture or a BBQ area
- Add potted plants or landscaping features
Present Well on Valuation Day
Why It Matters:
Even if your home is well-maintained, presentation on valuation day can influence the final result.
How to Prepare for Valuation Day:
- Ensure the home is spotless – A clean space leaves a positive impression
- Allow natural light in – Open blinds and curtains
- Provide easy access to all areas – Avoid locked rooms or blocked spaces
- Be available to answer valuer questions – Highlight recent upgrades or improvements
Understand Local Market Trends
Why It Matters:
Your home’s value is influenced by market conditions and recent sales in the area.
How to Stay Informed:
- Research recent sales in your suburb to understand pricing trends
- Follow NT’s real estate market reports for updates
- Consult a local valuer for a pre-valuation assessment
How Much Value Can Improvements Add?
Even small upgrades and repairs can add thousands to a property’s valuation.
| Improvement Type | Estimated Value Increase |
| Basic cosmetic updates (painting, cleaning) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Minor kitchen and bathroom updates | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Landscaping and outdoor improvements | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Structural repairs and renovations | $20,000 – $50,000+ |
Larger renovations may provide higher returns, but even simple, cost-effective upgrades can improve valuation outcomes.
Conclusion
Taking the time to prepare your property before a valuation can lead to better financial results when selling, refinancing, or investing.
- Improve street appeal and presentation to make a strong first impression
- Make cost-effective upgrades to kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas
- Ensure repairs and maintenance are up to date to avoid devaluation
- Work with a professional property valuer to assess market trends and improvements
If you’re preparing for a property valuation in NT, making these small but impactful changes can help maximise your home’s market value.
