1. Prepare the approach to your property
Presentation is everything when it comes to selling property. First impressions really do count, and your viewers impression starts as they walk up to the door.
Listed below is a checklist of things to consider making sure that your property is ready to impress:
a. Leaky gutters and drainpipes really stand out in the winter months. Make sure that you clear out any leaves, moss or debris and make sure that the pipes are not leaking and are clean’
b. Make sure that all pathways are not slippery
c. Remove weeds, and with plants remove any which are dead and cut back any that need it.
d. Cover and tidy away the garden furniture
e. If you can afford to, invest in a tub of seasonal flowers to stand by the doorstep. A splash of seasonal colour can make all the difference on a dreary day.
2. Make sure that is the inside is inviting.
The warmth, smell and feel of your home as viewers step inside will be significant in their decision as to its suitability. Make sure your home is warm, but not too hot. The interior should be as clean and tidy as you can make it and get rid of any clutter. A clean, clear path through the property maximises space and size.
Listed below is a checklist of things to consider making sure that your property is viewer ready.
a. Make sure the entrance is clear so that viewers are not stacking up on each other as you invite them in.
b. Make sure that all windows are clean, inside, and out maximising the natural light.
c. Make sure that all lightings have bright bulbs which work. If you do not have outside lights its always handy to have a torch to be able to show any outside spaces.
d. Box up all the items that you do not use and pop them away. The less cluttered a space is, the more spacious it will feel.
e. Invest in some plants or flowers to give a fresh and homely feel.
3. Know your home
Viewers often have lots of questions to ask and it is good to be prepared. Work out the monthly running costs for utilities, know when any extensions were added and when the boiler was last serviced. The more confident you sound about the answers that you can give the more confidence you will install in your viewer.
a. Look at the cost of gas, electric and water for your property over the last year. Divide the total by twelve and this will give you an average monthly cost.
b. Know your council tax band as well as the monthly cost.
c. Have any servicing documents to hand and details on any planning for extensions and when they were done.
d. Have any guarantees for home improvements to hand.
e. Know a bit about your local area to be able to talk about schools, shops, and transport links.
Preparation is as important as selecting the correct agent to ensure the quickest sale at the best price.
