Renovating is a great way to add value to your property, and to create a point of difference when it comes time to sell. But it’s easy to get caught up in the latest design trends or colour schemes, which could spell bad news when it comes time to sell.

Brisbane’s property renovation boom is well and truly upon us, with more homeowners than ever choosing to upgrade rather than upsize. Deciding the style and scope of your build is the crucial stage of any renovation, and it’s often the point where DIY weekend warriors come unstuck.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when renovating is to follow a trend, as this can restrict your options in the future when it comes time to sell.  But there are ways you can future-proof ideas, starting from the planning stages through to decorating.

1. Plan ahead

It’s easy to get caught up in what you think looks great now or the latest wave of Pinterest pins, but what looks good on Instagram or on your Facebook feed isn’t always practical. Planning your renovation carefully while keeping the functionality of your home at the centre of each decision is crucial to getting the best results. A renovation should always meet your current needs, but also anticipate the way you will use your property in the future.

Taking into account your longer term plans for a property can extend the build time and increase your project budget. But remember, renovating a property isn’t a race – and with the right plans in place, buyers too can continue the work you’ve begun should you wish to sell before completing the build.

2. Maximise your property’s performance

In Australia, homes that prioritise efficiency, sustainability and take advantage of the natural resources available are highly sought after. When planning a renovation, it’s important to not only think about aesthetic design options, and leave open the possibility of upgrading your property’s performance.

Installing solar panels, adding a water tank, improving your energy efficiency or taking advantage of what your block offers using the right sustainable landscaping can attract savvy buyers  looking for a property with lower overheads that performs.

3. Prioritise function over form

Whether you are planning a house or just renovating a kitchen, be practical and give priority to function. When following trends, your house could be as pretty as a picture, but it’s all a waste of time and energy if it doesn’t perform at an optimal level. Efficient storage and ease of use are key to every room in the house, but are most especially important for a great kitchen design.

Remember, bigger is not always better when you are renovating, and you are most likely going to be paying a per-square-metre rate to your builders. Creating a layout that’s determined by the way you and your family live on a daily basis will not only save you time and money, but will result in a home that works.

4. Consider resale value

Keeping in touch with the market in terms of resale value and the types of features buyers are looking for is crucial to a good renovation. It’s easy to get caught up in the emotion of renovating your property, and you might even think that it’s turning into a forever home. But it’s important to keep in mind the possibility of selling, and what’s required to maximise your return on investment.

Prioritising a home that’s practical, functional and efficient will go a long way to ensuring you’re well placed if and when it comes time to sell.  Choose quality materials that will stand the test of time, keep colour schemes neutral and don’t commit to the latest online trend.