HOW TO SHOW YOUR HOUSE SOME LOVE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

Valentine’s Day is upon us! Whether you’re an avid enthusiast or a staunch non-believer, while you’re stocking up on heart-shaped treats and greets for bae (or for yourself, we’re not judging), why not also invest in something a bit more long-lasting than wilted roses or chocolates that end up stale? Show your house some love this Valentine’s Day too! Some might say it’s best treated as the “other” love of your life anyway — especially if you want to yield the best possible return on investment one day. But where to start? We’re glad you asked! Here are some ways you can show your house some love for V-day.

1. KonMari Your Home

Take a leaf out of the ever-popular Marie Kondo’s super-organised book and start the great decluttering! You can enjoy this as a solo passion project or use it as a chance to spend time with loved ones – sorting through and organising one room at a time together can be fun. Best of all, a day spent decluttering your home can also turn up a pretty useful haul that can be donated to local charities and animal welfare. Also, take the opportunity to note repairs and maintenance opportunities and add them to a wishlist as you move from area to area. Tackle these repairs month-by-month throughout the upcoming year. Similar to any relationship, consistently being attentive to your home’s needs pays off in the long run.

2. Boost its Curb Appeal

Showing the exterior of your home a little maintenance and repair care has the double benefit of making you feel proud of your home’s aesthetic and can boost its curb appeal to the market. A low-effort, but high-impact upgrade could be giving your roof, garage or front door a fresh coat of paint or even giving your gutters a rehaul. You’ll be surprised how these simple things can change the look of your home. Renovations that add visual appeal and market value are always going to feel worth it down the line when you’re looking to sell your property.

3. Level Up Your Garden

Could upgrading the garden add value to a property? Absolutely! It could add curb appeal which could help you attract multiple buyers who could end up in a bidding war (given the right market conditions, of course). But work smart, not expensive when it comes to your plant and tree choices. What kind of flora and trees will thrive in your climate? Will your choices be reasonable on rates like water to maintain? One of life’s greatest pleasures is being able to enjoy a well-shaded yard but it needs to be cost-efficient too. Installing automated, water-savvy sprinklers can also be a good investment for future buyer interest. Whether you want to pluck armfuls of fragrant roses or picnic under a shady indigenous tree, indulge your property with a little green gifting this Valentine’s and let the love grow!

4. Add an Outdoor Braai

What renovations add the most value to a home? Well, in South Africa, braais are right up there! However, when deciding what kind of outdoor braai you want, you must assess the space you have available to accommodate it well. From a snug Weber to a built-in unit, you’ll want enough well-ventilated room for the braai master and your guests to enjoy the sizzling feast in comfort. Not only will your summer plan be sorted, but this also gives your property the glow-up it needs to compete with others in your neighbourhood should you want to sell one day.

5. Show it Off to Friends & Fam

Last, but certainly not least, remember to show off your home to friends and family when you’re done. Because, at the end of the day, if you’ve put the care and investment into your home during Cupid’s month of love, then you deserve to celebrate in it too. How about hosting that Valentine’s Day-themed dinner party or gathering? After all, our homes are most fulfilled when we spend time making memories in them, especially with all the wonderful and special people in our lives.

Partner with Property Professionals Who Care

This Valentine's Day, think about your relationship with your home. Reflect on the time you've lived together. Also, look ahead to your home’s future and what projects you might want to accomplish with it next. If you haven’t been checking out the latest in smart home technology, you’ll be surprised how much automation you can put into your property these days!

When it comes to gaining expert advice, don’t hesitate to speak to a friendly RE/MAX property professional in your neighbourhood. Find out more about what features other homes on the market in your area are boasting and where your property would most benefit from a little love and attention. Happy Valentine's Day to you and your home – don’t forget to celebrate the bond you have together!