In this market, it is a mistake to invest too much money in renovations that you cannot recoup when the time comes to sell because they would price the property out of the market.

So says Berry Everitt, CEO of the Chas Everitt International property group, who adds that presenting your house at its best in any market is still sound advice.

"But it is also true that in a market where prices are soft and buyers still scarce it is imperative to keep the market value in mind before you embark on extensive renovations in an effort to attract prospective buyers."

"The best course of action is to take a hard and objective look at your home or call in the help of someone who will give you an honest opinion. If you have kept up with maintenance work, the property might only need a new coat of paint and a general cleanup.

"However, if more extensive renovation is to be done, such as replacing chipped wall tiles or worn-out floor coverings, you will need to draw up a list of projects and then a strict budget, remembering that your aim is to get your property shipshape as it stands, not to redesign or rebuild it."

Making sure that your house is clean and that everything is in working order might be a more important selling point than a new bathroom or redesigned kitchen, Everitt says.

"For example, check that all light switches, door handles and kitchen and bathroom fixtures are in good working order. Fix dripping taps and make sure that the sprinkler system works. This sort of attention to detail will usually please buyers and at the very least will mean that they have no excuse to talk down the price."

For more information contact Berry Everitt on 011 801 2500 or click here to visit the website.

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