With spring on its way, now is the time people in general and maybe you if your reading this traditionally decide to sell your home.
While more sun and lighter evenings mean houses appear brighter and more attractive to buyers, they’ll also show up any dodgy paintwork, scuffed skirting boards or dusty corners.
Brighten up the garden
First and last impressions count the most when it comes to a property viewing.
Your driveway and front garden will be the first thing that viewers see, so it’s best to make a good impression from the start.
Most buyers make their minds up within minutes of arriving at the property, so it really is vital to make sure that everything looks perfect on the driveway and the garden – if you have one of course!
Look outside your property’s boundaries
Get a gardener to clean up weeds around communal areas, clear any rubbish that might have blown onto your neighbour’s garden and do both sides of the hedge when you trim it. If there’s litter or something dumped down the street, get rid of it! It’s a good neighbourly thing to do too.
Tidy up your hallway
Hallways are often overlooked but they’re the first part of the house viewers will see and it’s important to clear the debris.
Ensure the entrance hall or lobby is decluttered. If the weather is warm, put your winter coats and boots away in cupboards or storage boxes.
Give your house a deep clean
Though giving your house a spring clean prior to visitors looking around may seem obvious, it really can make a difference when you’re trying to sell. This is a great, low-cost option – all you need are some cheap cleaning materials and some elbow grease!
Don’t attempt anything drastic
As much as you might like to, now is not the time to start redoing your kitchen or building a conservatory. You don’t want your house to be like a building site when potential buyers come around – and in any case, they will want to make their own changes to the property.
But do make small changes
Freshening up your home with small DIY jobs helps a buyer visualise the property as their own. Clear storage spaces too, so that potential buyers aren’t met with jam-packed cupboards.
Repainting the front door and investing in a new doormat can also really help a property stand out – all small tasks can be done over a weekend.
Clean your windows
Giving the windows and mirrors in your home a wipe down is key to showing prospective buyers around your home and, on a sunny day, any smudges will definitely show. Another simple but effective task.
Bring the outside in
Flowers make a house feel like a home. Placing a bunch of fresh tulips or daffodils in the kitchen will not only add some colour to the space but may even work as a conversation starter!
Use light carefully
Sellers often underestimate light and this can be very important when selling a house. Consider a few well-placed sidelights rather than a centre light, especially for evening viewings. It makes a space look so much more homely.
Finishing touches
Give your surfaces a wipe down and don’t leave washing or dishes lying around.
Don’t cook chilli or curry the night before a viewing as cooking smells linger for longer than you think.
Keep family photos and ornaments to a minimum – potential buyers like to visualise themselves in your home and these could prove distracting.
