Property development: the living room

What people want
Natural light is the most valuable commodity in any living room. No buyers have ever been put off by a light and airy space. If the room is a bit short of natural light, then you need to make the most of what you've got. Don't cut down the window area with heavy curtains and consider scheduling viewings at times when the room is at its brightest.

There's nothing like the phrase original features to perk up an estate agent's description of a living room. Desire for original features remains high and you should only remove them from a living room if you are totally confident your target market will be put off by them.

If you're restoring original features, then get them right. Buyers are far more design-savvy these days and they want features of the right period for the property. In the same vein, it's pointless doing a bodge job on them. If your skills aren't up to it, get a professional in.

Fireplaces are enduring favourites in the property game. If you want to restore a working fireplace, get a chimney sweep to check it over and give it a thorough clean first. You need to find out what fuel can be burned, too: some local authorities require the use of smokeless fuel. Living flame gas fires have come a long way in recent years and are now a clean, efficient alternative to the real thing. If you go for this option, choose a model in a plain style, so that it doesn't fight with the fire surround.

Strategies
It's hardly original but it can't be stressed enough: avoid using strong colours. You want your buyers to be appreciating the good points of the living room, not shuddering at the shocking pink chimney breast twinned with crimson skirting boards. On the other hand, your overall scheme needn't be dull: neutral shades on the walls and ceiling can be lifted by stronger colours in the furnishings and accessories. Tread carefully if you're using laminate flooring. Those offers in the DIY superstores do look attractive but, sadly, the floors they're attached to often do not. Laminate flooring is rightly popular because it's inexpensive, smart, practical and durable but, as in any other decorating product, you get what you pay for. A cheap and nasty laminate floor is just a problem your buyers will have to fix if they move in and it might mean the difference between them buying the place or not. One strategy to consider is using the same flooring in the living room as the hall, kitchen or dining room. The unifying effect is dramatic and you might be able to save some money by negotiating a discount on the larger flooring order. Flexibility is the watchword for lighting in the living room. A dimmer switch will offer scope for controlling the mood. Make sure there are plenty of electrical sockets throughout the room, so buyers can add standard or table lamps wherever they want.