Certainly in the housing market: often it’s the case that an ugly duckling transmutes into a beautiful swan. A property that has sat on the market without so much an interested glance from all proposed buyers with the exception of the eventual purchaser, once re-styled is subsequently courted by a number of admirers.

There are a many ways in which this transformation can take place, and even then, there are circumstances, whereby, short of demolishing the entire structure only limited improvement is possible. Usually, however, there are some simple steps that may assist in creating an attractive and sought after home for those elusive purchasers who have evaded the charms of your property so far.

First and foremost make sure that the general appearance of your home is clean, tidy and looking fresh, bright and smelling good. Remember that many of those who view may not have the imagination to see the possibilities of what could be created.

Secondly, if you have not shown any love for your house or flat why should you expect someone else to do so? Appearance is everything. So, at least whilst viewings are taking place, tend the garden if you have one, add plants to a balcony, put all the children’s toys away, dispose of anything that has been be discarded and place as much clutter as possible into any available cupboards. This will do two jobs. It will make the property look as though it is cared for and make it seem larger.

Thirdly, if there are areas that have damp patches, peeling paint, cracks and the like, it is worth taking the time and spending some money to run a coat of paint over the areas to create a good first impression. Buyers and tenants are immediately put off by something that looks dirty, unloved and unkempt.

Realistically we know that not all homes have the potential to win beauty contests, but with good interior design and some stylish finishes vast improvements can be made.  If this was not the case many property developers would go out of business, but they succeed because they see potential in the space and are not fazed by the current look of a property. With a little imagination it is amazing what can be done, often not at great cost.

We have all seen those tumble-down houses or architecturally unattractive homes, which can be terrifying due to the perception of the sheer scale of the works or our lack of vision; but before running away, it’s worthwhile taking a moment to consider the potential and decide whether there is a likelihood of the property becoming  your dream home. For example, would changing the style of the windows improve the appearance, perhaps knocking down an internal wall will provide the living/bedroom area required or  maybe adding a small extension or utilising a dead space to create further usable accommodation could do the trick? Moving the rooms around may produce the requisite space or gain an area for that ensuite bathroom you have always hankered after.

Whether mansion or hovel, luxurious interior or ramshackle room, some of these properties become unrecognisable with little alteration, whilst others need total reconfiguration. But with a little ingenuity and ideas they can be transmogrified from the proverbial caterpillar into the beautiful butterfly.

London Property Magazine August 2017