Property expert reveals ten things homeowners can do on the cheap (or for free) right now to add value to their home in time for a summer sale
Liv Conlon, 26, originally from Glasgow, runs an award-winning property staging business that furnishes over 400 homes a year to make them more appealing to potential buyers, as well as StagerBoss - a coaching business that teaches other women how to do the same.
This summer, experts are predicting a summertime boom with increased interest from potential buyers, Liv explained, adding that property prices are also expected to rise.
However, she added, 'This doesn't mean your house sale is guaranteed - nor that you'll be able to sell it at the fee you want for it, or even above.
'As the CEO of a multi-award-winning property staging business, ThePropertyStagers, this is where my expertise comes in. I've helped thousands of homeowners sell their homes faster and for above the asking price.
'Whether you have a sprawling garden or a cosy top-floor flat with no outdoor space, summer is the season to make the most of your entire home.
'This doesn't have to mean expensive renovations or a full décor overhaul. Sometimes, small, inexpensive changes can have the biggest impact.'
As such, Liv, who now lives in Marbella, has shared her top ten affordable furnishing tips that might help a home stand out from the crowd.
First, property expert Liv advised sellers to switch up soft furnishings inside the home.
She said, 'One of the quickest ways to signal a new season is with your textiles. Swap heavy throws and dark cushions for lighter, brighter options.
'Think jewel-toned velvets for a bold look or soft lavenders, pale greens, and sunshine yellows for a subtler summer palette. Lightweight linen or cotton fabrics also keep your space feeling breezy and fresh.'
Next, she said seasonal tableware can make a world of a difference in creating a summer haven.
'You don't need a garden to embrace alfresco vibes,' she said, adding, 'Treat yourself to colourful outdoor-style tableware - melamine plates, acrylic tumblers, or bamboo salad bowls - that feel fun, casual, and summery.
'Lay your table with a vibrant runner, some woven placemats and enjoy meals that feel like mini holidays.'
Liv also said that adding fresh or faux flowers in every room can help attract potential buyers.
She said, 'Flowers are the ultimate seasonal refresh. Dot fresh blooms around your home - in the hallway, on coffee tables, even the bathroom.
She urged those looking to sell their homes to refresh their furnishings to help attract potential buyers
'If you're on a budget or want longevity, high-quality faux stems can have the same uplifting effect and last all summer long.'
Liv's fourth tip was to alter the scent of the home depending on the season, adding that it's a 'powerful' tool.
She said, 'Swap out woody or spiced winter candles for fresh citrus, coconut, sea salt or fig-inspired fragrances.
'A diffuser or a few scented tealights in summery notes can subtly transform the atmosphere of your space.'
Liv's next tip explained the importance of using mirrors to reflect natural light during the summertime.
She said, 'Summer is all about sunshine. Reflect more natural light by adding mirrors to darker corners, or repositioning existing ones to catch the morning or evening light.
'You could even pick up inexpensive stick-on mirror tiles to create a bespoke reflective feature wall.'
Liv also provided five tips that might help improve the appearance of outdoor space, including refreshing outdoor cushions.
She said, 'Outdoor cushions take a beating in the elements, so if yours are faded or stained, it's time for a quick revamp.
'Look for affordable cushion covers in bold stripes, tropical prints, or Mediterranean-inspired patterns. Even a new set of ties or trims can make existing cushions feel brand new.'
Liv added that colourful glassware can also help draw positive attention.
'Whether it's a balcony, a courtyard, or a full patio, adding a splash of colour to your outdoor dining setup goes a long way.
'Think coloured glass tumblers, carafes, or even mismatched vintage finds. They sparkle in the sunlight and create an instant sense of celebration.
Next, Liv added some simple steps to help homeowners revive tired outdoor furniture without having to splash out on new items.
She said, 'A quick scrub-down with soapy water, a coat of spray paint in a bold hue, or a wood stain refresher can make old chairs or benches look brand new. Add a throw or outdoor blanket to soften the space.'
Liv also advised homeowners to introduce solar lighting. She said, 'Create evening magic with inexpensive solar lanterns, string lights or LED tea lights.
'Line a path, hang lights in a tree, or dot them around your balcony railing. They're budget-friendly, eco-conscious and they extend your summer evenings outdoors.
The property expert's last piece of advice was for homeowners to 'plant with personality'.
She said, 'If you don't have a garden, try window boxes, balcony pots, or even a vertical planter.
'Look for bright flowers like geraniums, petunias, or marigolds - or go for herbs like basil and mint that are both beautiful and practical. Upcycle old tins or baskets into quirky planters for added charm.
'Summer is about creating spaces that invite you to relax, unwind and enjoy. Whether you're sipping spritzers on a patio or lounging under a fan in a studio flat, these simple updates can breathe fresh life into your home.
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