1. Increase the ‘kerb appeal’
Most buyers make up their mind about a property within 30 seconds of viewing it, so you need to ensure their first impression is a good one by thinking about the outside of your home as well as the inside.
Giving your front door or gate a lick of paint, cleaning the windows, trimming the hedge and sweeping the path can all help to make your home more inviting.
2.Make the most of outdoor space
Gardens or any type of outdoor space can be another great selling point – but an overgrown jungle could see your buyer running mile. Not only will the space look smaller and ‘forgotten about’, if paying out for a gardener isn’t in your viewer’s plan or budget, it could completely put them off the property.
3.Spruce up your property and de-clutter
Once the outside of your home is looking good, think about tidying up inside. You don’t have to carry out hours of DIY, but taking steps such as fixing a broken cupboard door or giving the kitchen a fresh coat of paint (in a neutral colour) can help to make your home more attractive.
Give the place a good clean and stamp out any smells such as those made by pets or cigarettes. A fresh smell is far more welcoming – but don’t get carried away baking bread, brewing coffee etc. A buyer might think you have something to hide.
Also get rid of any clutter – if your shelves are full of ornaments, family photos or books, put them into storage. Removing unnecessary furniture can also make the home more spacious.
Don’t forget the detail either. Chances are the buyer will be nit-picking as they will be looking at a number of properties and weighing everything up. So get around to those annoying little maintenance jobs such as a long overdue light bulb change.
4.Define each room
Buyers need to be able to picture themselves living in the house so it’s essential that each room is shown off to it highlight its purpose. If your dining room is full of work papers or exercise equipment for example, return it to its original purpose. It’s also important to de-personalise, for example by taking down posters in the kids bedrooms – so the buyer can see the potential for the house and where they would put their own items.
5.Stay out of the way!
When potential buyers come to view your property, let them wander freely around the house with the agent. You want them to feel comfortable and as though they can spend time looking at each room freely. Be ready also to answer any questions after the viewing.
