Do you have more time on your hands at the moment? What a great time to get your property ready to sell! The sun is shining, our gardens are coming into bloom and traditionally Spring is a super time to sell your home! When the current restrictions are eased there are many predictions of a surge in properties coming to the market with lots of positive market activity. This is a great opportunity to get ahead of the competition and get your home ready to photograph. Here are our tips on getting your home ready.
1) K E R B A P P E A L
Let’s think about kerb appeal! Do you love the look of your home when you are walking towards the front door? If you do, then potential buyers will too! Now is the time to power wash the paths, fix the doorbell, paint your front door and tidy the bin area. First impressions are everything! Most buyers will drive past your house before arranging a viewing so it’s really important to make the right impression before they step foot inside!
2) D E C L U T T E R
Buyers are looking at the space your property offers them, but they won’t be able to appreciate it if your rooms are too cluttered. Consider putting some things into storage before you move. If you can, remove oversized furniture as it can make rooms look smaller. Consider removing some photos and children’s drawings. We want the buyers to visualise themselves living there not be distracted by personal items.
3) I S Y O U R D E C O R N E U T R A L?
A blank canvas is best! You can re-create your own style in your next home but giving your buyers a neutral feel is always best. Showcasing your property to meet as many tastes as possible is crucial in finding the right buyer. A full re-decoration is not essential very bright colours and patterned wallpaper may not be to everyone’s taste!
4) M A K E T H E B E S T O F E A C H R O O M
Ensure every room is utilised in the very best way. You may use your third bedroom as a sewing room, but this isn’t showing your house off in the best light. Make sure each room has a clear purpose; if it’s a bedroom put a bed in it! If you have a large landing area or a useful space under your stairs create a study area or a cosy nook for reading!
5) D O A N Y M I N O R R E P A I R S
Touch up any scuffed paint work, make good to historic water stains, fix any gutters and give them a clean, mend any broken window handles, remove stains from carpets. If potential buyers spot something that needs attention, they may start looking for more! Best to fix things if you can!
6) C L E A N A N D T I D Y
Make sure your house is spotless! This is so important. How many times have you seen photos of houses or even viewed houses that are not well presented? It will instantly put buyers off. Clean your oven and clean your fridge! (some buyers will look!). Make sure your towels are fresh, the carpets are hoovered, and floors are mopped. Add some fresh flowers or a scented diffuser. These small things really do help!
7) O U T S I D E
Don’t forget the garden! Ensure flower beds are well looked after and there are no weeds and if you can, give the grass a cut before a viewing. It will look inviting and smell fresh too! If you have pots on your patio, make sure they are well planted and watered and if it’s dry put some garden furniture out. Buyers are looking to picture themselves living in your home so make it as appealing as you can!
If you have a front driveway always leave a space for a potential buyer to park their car. Trying to find a parking space can create stress that could be avoided!
Viewing a house should be a pleasurable experience and these straightforward tips will help you stand out from the competition.
