Things to consider when selling your home:
First Impressions Count
When people arrive to view your house, make sure it looks the part! First things first - the garden and front of your house. Make sure any lawns and hedges are trimmed and presentable, if you have hanging baskets make sure they look nice, or remove them! If you have a bell, make sure it works, and if not make sure you have a working knocker for your guests to use!
Light
Clean the windows inside and out - they are the eyes of the house, and it is important to get natural light into the home. Also, open all the internal doors. This helps to brighten the rooms. Turn on internal lights before visitors arrive - remember dark houses look smaller.
Clutter
Clear all clutter out. If you don't need it, put it in a box and put it in the loft. You may be surprised at how much bigger your home will look without it! If necessary, bribe the children to keep their rooms tidy - it may be a good long term investment!
Atmosphere
Try to create a homely atmosphere. If it is cold, put the heating on, light the fire or possibly use some candles to make it nice and relaxing!
Pets
Many people love their pets, but some may be put off by large or noisy dogs. We know that until you sell it, this is their home too - they may want to make a fuss of people or even protect their territory, so try to make sure they are kept at a safe distance until you have ensured your guests are comfortable with animals!
Scents and Fragrances
One of the more common items of feedback estate agents receive relates to the smell of a home. If you live near a farm, factory or even in a house with loads of teenagers you may be used to the smell, but to visitors it may come as a shock! Try to ensure your home is well aired before a viewing takes place, and consider a small investment in a plug-in scent. Another option is to put a few drops of vanilla essence on a baking tray in a warm oven to create a baking smell.
Kitchens
Kitchens are one of the few rooms which can sell a house. Try to clear all of the work surfaces, put bottles and jars in cupboards and clear all the pictures from the fridge door - once again the clearer the room, the larger it will appear!
Don't Crowd In!
Too many people in a room will make it appear unnaturally small. Follow your guests into rooms rather than leading and they will see it in it's best light.
Honesty Counts
Honestly answer all questions which your visitors ask about your home - after all if they make an offer and purchase the house they will find out the truth during the buying process anyway! Otherwise, it is usually the case that the least said, the better - your home will show and sell itself!
Call in a friend...
Consider asking a friend to come in and conduct them round - get their feedback. After all, friends can be relied on to be honest when needed!
The Professionals
Don't worry - when we conduct a market appraisal we will also give you a few hints and tips on selling our home - providing you want them!
|
