Kelly Hoppen MBE: Estate Agent Networking Exclusive Interview.

We are very pleased to share with you an exclusive interview with Kelly Hoppen MBE who’s a leading authority in English Interior Designing and also an author and proprietor of Kelly Hoppen Interiors and was once a Dragon too (BBC Dragons Den)!

1.    Should people invest in interior design when selling their homes to achieve a better sale price?

Some times the buyer may want the opportunity to design their own space, making it more homely and personal. However having some enhancing factors such as key furniture and great lighting will be more attention grabbing than an empty house. I don’t think it’s necessary to spend a fortune, of course it depends on the state of the property, it’s worth investing in neutral paint too so it feels fresh. It’s also good to ensure that the rooms have plenty of light, reflective surfaces and mirrors, which are great for making a room appear more spacious, which is always seen as a positive by a buyer. 

2.    Which room(s) of UK homes do you think are most neglected and their potential not maximised?

People today like to keep many unnecessary things and just wedge them all in one place, their spare rooms! These rooms are often forgotten and neglected which is a shame as they are key. A small spare room designed with soft colours and some varied textures can create the prefect atmosphere for your guests; You could even rent the room which could act as another source of income.

3.    Which is the best way to find a local interior designer?

The wonderful thing that is the Internet! There are various specific websites solely for finding designers near you, and searching online is free and allows you to closely compare designers. ‘Houzz’ for example is a great site that is always offering new tips and posts about various designers. Remember to always take your time, don’t rush into anything, read about the designer and look at their previous work. Choosing the right person is the most important part, as you will be working with them for a long time.

4.     Which is the single most important piece of advice you’d give a person selling their home re presentation?

I know it seems obvious but make sure the house is clean and submerged with light. Create the right atmosphere for your potential buyers and welcome them into a home that is ready to be moved into. Also fresh coffee and baked goodies is an old wives tale which is meant to help sell homes! 

 

Thank you Kelly for your time and also thank you to Molly for helping to make this happen.

 

Image credit – Kelly Hoppen MBE

Christopher Walkey

Founder of Estate Agent Networking. Internationally invited speaker on how to build online target audiences using Social Media. Writes about UK property prices, housing, politics and affordable homes.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

UK House Price Index for January 2025

The latest index shows that: The average monthly rate of house price growth in January was -0.3%. Average UK house price annual inflation was 1.3% in the 12 months to January 2025. As a result, the average UK house price currently sits at £268,000.   Here are some thoughts from the Industry.   Damien Jefferies,…
Read More
Breaking News

Exchange time reaches 135 days

Property transactions slow as exchange time reaches 135 days — up 45% on 2019 The time it takes to exchange contracts has risen to 135 days — 45% longer than in 2019 and 3% higher than last year — despite a drop in property transactions year-on-year, it emerged today. Novus Strategy, the transformation consultancy for…
Read More
Breaking News

Industry response to latest inflation figures and its impact on housing

Industry response to UK inflation remaining at 3%. Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, comments: “Although inflation has remained steady since last month, it is important to acknowledge geopolitical tensions moving forward, and the effect such pressures may have on many households over the coming months. “Today’s news should help bring a measured sense of consistency…
Read More
Breaking News

Foxtons Lettings Market Index – February 2026

Seasonal recovery as improved supply and demand indicates a return of market momentum   Lettings market is showing signs of seasonal recovery as we see market activity picking up, with February performance indicating that momentum is returning following a usually quieter winter period. Renter budgets remained broadly stable, averaging £540 per week year to date…
Read More
to let sign 2025
Letting Agent Talk

The best time to list a rental property in London revealed

Lettings experts at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward reveal the best time to list a rental property in London to get twice as many enquiries Spring is a natural reset for our homes with a light refresh going a long way to help us feel rejuvenated. A quick coat of paint where walls look tired, fresh…
Read More
Rightmove logo
Breaking News

Rightmove expert reacts to ONS figures

Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, said:  “Today’s ONS figures reflect the seasonal uplift we typically see at the start of the year, which mirrors what we’ve already observed in our own January and February data. With the number of homes for sale now at its highest level in over a decade, buyers are benefiting…
Read More