Guide

How to assess a property's renovation potential before buying

Buying a house to renovate in the canton of Geneva can seem attractive, but it requires thorough analysis. At Millenium Properties, our experts help you assess the real potential of a property before you buy it.

  • By Millenium Properties
  • 2 min read
Photo of a lakeside building

Analysing the technical condition of the building

A detailed inspection identifies the work required:

Structure and foundations

Our specialists carefully examine all the structural elements of the building. The stability of the load-bearing walls is checked for any worrying cracks or deformation. The condition of the roof timbers receives particular attention, notably to identify signs of damp, wood-boring insects or material fatigue. We also look for any signs of subsidence that could indicate problems with the foundations, requiring costly work.

Building envelope

We assess the performance of the house's exterior envelope precisely. The thermal insulation is analysed to determine whether it meets current standards and how energy-efficient it is. The watertightness of the windows and roof is checked thoroughly to prevent water ingress and heat loss. The ventilation system is also examined to ensure optimal air renewal and to prevent damp and condensation problems.

Technical installations

We systematically check all the technical equipment in the house. The heating system is assessed in terms of efficiency, age and compliance with current standards. The electrical installation is carefully checked to identify obsolete or dangerous elements that need to be brought up to standard. The plumbing is inspected for any leaks, pressure problems or old pipes that should be replaced.

Setting renovation priorities

Based on the assessment, we draw up a personalised renovation plan. Urgent structural work always comes first, to ensure the safety and durability of the building. Energy improvements are then prioritised according to their cost-effectiveness and the legal requirements in force in Geneva. The modernisation of living spaces is planned to optimise comfort and appearance, in line with your expectations and budget.
For example, for a 150 m² house in Geneva, the renovation budget can range from CHF 75'000.– to CHF 525'000.–, depending on the scale of the work.

Planning the renovation project

Organisation and coordination

We help you organise your renovation project efficiently from start to finish. We help you estimate realistic timescales, taking into account seasonal constraints and the availability of tradespeople in the Geneva area. Our network allows us to select qualified, reliable tradespeople who meet the high quality standards required in the canton. We also guide you through obtaining the necessary permits from the planning authorities, a particularly important aspect in Geneva, where regulations are strict.

Assessing the potential increase in value

A well-managed renovation significantly increases a property's value on the Geneva market. Our experts accurately estimate the potential gain in value you can expect from the work carried out. In Geneva, this gain is generally between 2% and 11% on average, depending on the nature of the improvements and the location of the property. This analysis helps you optimise your investment by focusing on the work offering the best return.
Contact Millenium Properties to benefit from our expertise in the Geneva property market and make a success of your purchase and renovation project.

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