Deciding to put your home on the property market is up there with some of the biggest, and potentially most stressful decisions in life. The one thing you will want to ensure is that you achieve the best possible price you can. However, with so many houses on the market, you will want yours to really stand out from the crowd, and to attract as many potential buyers as possible. That’s why, when selling your house, you need to get into the mindset of a buyer! You need to think objectively - if you came across your house on a property search engine or whilst driving by, would you want to buy it? If the answer is no, then here are some of my top tips for getting your house ready to sell to achieve that much-wanted sale.
First impressions
The saying goes that first impressions count and that’s no different when it comes to houses. Does your house have kerb appeal or is it somewhat lacking in this area? Whilst many people will come across a potential new home online, there are still lots of houses that people simply discover when visiting their preferred location and so having an inviting home from the outside really does count. That’s not to say that you have to have a lavish entrance or driveway, but make the most of what you do have and dress it accordingly. It might be something as simple as not having bins on display, removing any rubbish, sweeping the drive and tending to your garden by weeding. You may want to add some potted plants to make the outside look more or place greenery either side of your front door. You have more chance of getting a potential buyer through the door if they like what they see from the outside.
When you do get them through the front door, those first impressions need to continue.
An often-neglected area of people’s homes is the hallway. It is not just a corridor which leads to the rest of the house, but rather an area that welcomes in guests and gives them a hint of your personality and style and sets the tone for what is to follow. It is an opportunity to wow any potential buyer, so don’t waste it! At the very least, you may want to consider removing coats and shoes which clutter up the space or at least display them in an organised fashion. You may want to give the area a new coat of paint to freshen it up and, if light is an issue, think of adding a mirror to bounce light around and provide the illusion of space.
Clean and de-clutter
It may sound obvious, but having viewed many a house over the years, I can confirm that this is not obvious to everyone! Make sure your house is sparkling clean and pay special attention to integrated furniture and appliances that you may be selling as part of the deal – it’s not unreasonable for your potential buyer to look in the oven or your fitted wardrobes! Clean thoroughly and don’t forget under sofas and above head height where you might not ordinarily concentrate your time and efforts. De-cluttering is also a must – many people cannot see past other people’s clutter so have a good clear out or if you can’t bear to part with items, think about paying for storage whilst your house is open for viewings. Empty bins, display clean, fresh towels and tidy away toys. That is not to say that you need to create a show-home feel, but make the house feel loved and lived in by adding items such as fresh flowers and fruit.
Take each room in turn
Go through your house room-by-room and consider where furniture is placed and what, if any, changes you can make to maximise the rooms potential. If your house is listed as a 4 bedroomed property, make sure that all rooms are dressed as such – many buyers cannot see past the way in which a room is currently being used so don’t leave anything to chance. Each room should have a clearly defined purpose so if you use a room as a dumping ground, tidy it up and give it a purpose, whether this be a study, a playroom or a snug. You may need to rent furniture if you don’t already have it, but if it helps you to secure that sale, then it is money well spent.
Beware of odours
This can be a deal breaker for many buyers, so make sure your home smells wonderful with the use of plug-in scents or reed diffusers. If you have a pet, make sure that there are no lingering pet odours by having rugs and upholstery cleaned where possible and whilst you may love your beloved dog, not everyone will so ensure that they are out of the house during viewings and move their beds and food/water bowls out of sight.
Don’t neglect the outdoors
Your garden is an extension of your home so make sure that you give it the same love and attention as the rest of your home by styling it as best you can. Again, a simple tidy and spruce-up may be enough, but also consider adding potted plants and greenery as this can be an inexpensive way to add value and you can always take them with you to your next home.
Finally, don’t be offended by feedback – your home should reflect your personality, but your style might not appeal to everyone. Take feedback from potential buyers and your chosen estate agent onboard as it could prove critical to your success in securing that all-important sale.
If you are struggling to sell your home, don’t worry, help is at hand. Why not consider booking an interior design consultation with me so that we can get your house market-ready and secure that sale.
Happy selling,
Amy
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