ESTATE agents are urging homeowners to improve their homes ahead of putting them up for sale.

AHEAD of National Home Improvement Month, Mark Hayward, chief executive of NAEA Propertymark (National Association of Estate Agents), has given his recommendations for how to revamp your home ahead of a sale.

Describing how home improvement is more important than ever, he said: “Faced with a difficult housing market, updating and maintaining a property is more important now than ever for homeowners. Whether you need more space but can’t afford to move, or want to put your house on the market, you should be making the most of what you’ve got. You can be on a budget or willing to spend, there are always innovative improvements that can be undertaken which can successfully increase your home’s value.”

The NAEA’s top ten home improvements list includes, creating the illusion of light and space by adding mirrors to a space, giving your garden a makeover, creating an open plan living space and refreshing the look of your kitchen.

The organisation also recommends getting rid of “busy” wallpaper and giving your front door a fresh lick of paint.

Loft conversions, though expensive, offer the best value for money, according to the NAEA. It also recommends introducing energy efficient appliances into the homes, double gazing the windows and installing a fireplace.