Making the decision to move on and letting go of your home to sell can be difficult, you have lived there, possibly for years, and have many memories of different milestones reached and treasured events. To try and detach from this emotionally, you must remember that without you in it, the house is really just a space to be filled by other occupants. Look forward to the future, where you can achieve new milestones and make new memories in your new home.
Time to Declutter
Pack up your personal photographs, and clutter that might distract potential buyers. You want to present buyers with an impersonal, clean environment so they can imagine the home decorated with their own photographs, furniture, and belongs.
People tend to collect an amazing quantity of items over the years. Reasons for keeping items include an emotional attachment, an intention to reuse or fix the items in the future, or a wish to pass them on to others. However, for many items, if you have not used them in over a year, you probably don’t need them.
Clean clutter off your kitchen counters. Essential items that you use daily can be tucked away in small boxes that you can place in a closet when they are not in use.
Organise Cupboards and Built-in Wardrobes
Buyers will be curious about storage space and will want to check cupboards and built in wardrobes it is important that if potential buyers open the doors that they can easily see the space available.
Make Minor Repairs
In some instances it may be beneficial to make minor repairs to the property prior to instructing the home report, or indeed getting quotes for any Cat 2 or Cat 3 repairs that are highlighted in the home report which may put off potential purchasers.
Spring Clean
Preparing your home to market may include giving your property a spring clean to get the best photos and also give the best impression to potential buyers. Cleaning may include washing the windows inside and out; washing down paths and patio areas; cleaning baths, showers, and sinks.
Try to maintain this cleanliness by hoovering, dusting furniture, and keeping the bathrooms and kitchen spotless for viewings. (Also, keep the toilet lid closed when it is not in use.!)
Kerb Appeal
A potential sale is lost quickly if a buyer won’t even look at full sales particulars or set foot through the door. Some buyers have a drive past the property they are interested in or have a ‘drive down google street view’. If the exterior of your property doesn’t float their boat then they may not go any further. Try to make the exterior more appealing and welcoming by painting your front door and making sure the front of the house is tidy and welcoming.
Finally
Once you’ve picked your agent and your property is on the market Selling agents should be able to provide feedback from viewings and flag up to you any common themes or concerns that potential purchasers may have expressed. They should also be able to give advice and ideas on how to address these.
If you are thinking of selling your property and would like some information about the process or would simply like a free market appraisal then please do not hesitate to get in touch with the office.
