Turn on your TV these days and you can’t get away from programmes about property. Whether it’s getting on the property ladder, finding a new home, or sprucing up the one you have, the choices can be dizzying. One definite plus point of some of these programmes, however, is that they show you how you can add value to your house if you are trying to sell it.

Here are some general tips about how to make your house more appealing to potential buyers:

• Update your kitchen – this doesn’t necessarily mean splashing out on a brand new one, but just make sure the one you have is in good condition. Replace old appliances, countertops and sinks if you have to
• The same goes for bathrooms – a tired old suite could be the difference between a sale or not and a new bathroom needn’t cost a fortune. Otherwise, just make sure it is bright and clean with no cracked tiles or stained porcelain
• First impressions count, so make sure the front of your home is immaculate – trim hedges, and paint doors and window frames
• If you have a garden then make sure it looks healthy – if needs be, get a gardener in to spruce it up with a little weeding, cutting back and planting
• Freshen everything up – go through the entire property and give things a fresh coat of paint, put in new light fittings, new mirrors and tiles where they are needed

If you are trying to sell your house but don’t have the finances to make the necessary improvements, then take a look at what Direct Line has to offer. Not only do we do insurance, but we have great home loans too. You can borrow between £2,000 and £25,000 and our rates are very competitive – currently 8.1% APR Typical (from £7,500 to £14,999). What’s more, if you apply online, we aim to get an offer pack out to you within 48 hours, with an overall turnaround of around six weeks.

And if you are looking to buy somewhere new once you have sold your house, then a Direct Line Mortgage could be just what you are looking for. Our great range includes a special online-only two-year discount tracker.