When it comes to preparing your home for sale or let, there are a number of golden rules to help your property make the right first impression and appeal to as many viewers as possible.
Rule 1 – Property Assessment
Try and detach yourself from your home, and put yourself in the position of a potential buyer or tenant. Stand outside and take a good look at the property.
Are there any unfinished jobs, or things that need attending to, broken fences, peeling paint, or loose tiles? When was the last time the front door was painted or cleaned? For most of us these are the jobs we put off because of our busy lives. But when it comes to moving on, and wanting to get the very best price for your home... these jobs cannot slide!
Rule 2 - DIY
If you`re not handy with a drill or a paintbrush, call in an expert - it will get done far more quickly, probably cost less than you think and you’ll get the best possible result. Remember, nothing puts buyers off more than badly done DIY!
Rule 3 – The Garden
A garden can be a huge selling feature, so don’t underestimate its potential. Keep lawns mowed, shrubs trimmed, and consider putting a few inexpensive plants in pots or hanging baskets by the front door - they’ll give your buyers or tenants something to look at whilst they wait on your doorstep.
The same applies to the back garden too. Consider how someone viewing your home might want to use the outdoor space: a garden table and chairs is a great focal point, and will let viewers imagine themselves relaxing during those summer months. This won’t be possible during the winter so it might be worth keeping photos of the garden in its full glory, to show interested viewers what they have to look forward to!
So with the outside sorted, let’s turn our attention to the inside of your home.
Rule 4 - Decor
Neutral paint work and carpets are key. You may like bright colours and bold prints, but the chances are your buyers won’t, and if they don’t fancy grabbing a paintbrush or replacing and old dated carpet, they’ll be off to view another property.
Rule 5 – De-clutter & De-personalise
Take a look at each room in turn, put away things you want to keep but don’t use... dispose of (or better still, recycle) things you really don’t need. Think of it as getting ready to move out! The last thing you want to do is to pay to move all your rubbish to your next home, and then have to unpack it! A de-cluttered and organised home will look bigger, lighter and appeal to far more people.
Rule 6 – Cleaning Time
Make sure your home GLEAMS!! It’s time to wash the windows, clean the woodwork and polish the taps – all these little things will make a big difference, and leave a positive lasting impression.
So... if you’re looking for the best possible price, in the shortest amount of time, take your home to task, and if you want any advice... that`s what we’re here for!