With an influx of new housing schemes designed to assist those in buying a home, now is a great time to get your house out there on the market. But with an influx of buyers there is bound to come an influx of sellers too, so it is important to do what you can to stand out from the crowd. It doesn’t have to cost the earth to ensure that your property is appealing to potential buyers; there are a number of small touches which can help.
1. De-Clutter & Define Your Rooms
It is important for potential buyers to be able to imagine themselves living in your home, so try to clear away any clutter which is personal to you and your family before viewings. Things like family photographs, children’s toys and posters should be removed, to give the house a more neutral feel. Try to ensure that each of your rooms has a clearly defined purpose; this will make it easier when placing listings too. For example, if you’ve been using the dining room as a playroom for the past two years, try to put it back to its original state. Your buyers will be able to understand more clearly how the room relates to them.
2. Improve Your Kerb Appeal
It’s true what they say about first impressions; they really do matter. Many people make up their minds about a house within just a few minutes of being there, so make your first impression count. Take care over your front garden; make sure that the lawn is mown and perhaps plants some flowers around for a welcoming environment. If your front door or porch is looking a little shabby, give it a fresh layer of paint. Take some time over the hallway too, minimising coats, shoes and other clutter.
3. Fix Any Maintenance Issues
If you’ve been putting off fixing a leaky tap or changing that tricky light bulb, don’t delay any longer! We’d recommend going around your house to gather a list of any maintenance issues, and making sure that they are all fixed before viewings commence. Even the odd dead light bulb in the kitchen or scratched paint on the bath can really make a difference, giving an unkempt and neglected appearance. Your buyers want to see a home which has been cared for and loved, so that they are more likely to love it too.
4. Take Care Over The Exterior
It can be easy to spend hours and hours cleaning the interior of your home, and then forget about the outside. This is equally important, if not more, and is sure to be examined thoroughly by a surveyor before any sale takes place. Check the paint all over and, if it is peeling or has dulled over time, freshen it up. It may be a little work but it is well worth it, and once again it contributes towards that vital first impression. Next, check your roof and guttering carefully. Any loose guttering or roof tiles should be fixed, as this could cause bigger problems for buyers further down the line. You may find that your roof has had a build-up of algae and moss over time, something which can make the place appear as if it is not very well looked after. This can easily be solved with a domestic spray, leaving your roof clean and fresh.
