When you put your property on the market, you want it to sell; to sell quickly and to sell at the right price. In order to help you to reach this goal, you need to showcase your home in its best possible light.
The first thing you need to is to take a step back from your property and look at it through the eyes of someone who may or may not buy it. You need to be critical and then concentrate on the areas and features that don’t quite make the grade.
Start outside
Start with the garden path, the lawn, the front door and the windows so that you’re bumping up your curb appeal. Repaint the front door (or replace it if it’s beyond redemption), book a professional window cleaning service and tidy up the front garden. If your path is looking grubby, hire a jet-washer, and replace tired door and window fittings for striking new ones.
Work through that old to-do list
Everyone has a list of DIY jobs that just never seem to get done. If you’re looking to sell up, however, then you need to get busy. It could be a few dents in the walls and skirting boards, scuffed paint, loose cupboard handles and doors… These are the jobs that don’t cost much but that can make a big difference.
Think about your audience
Who are you most likely to sell to? In most cases, it’s someone 10 to 15 years behind you in the cycle of life. First-timers, second-steppers, expanding family or downsizers. If the expanding family market is all about an under-stairs nook for reading, then clear out your under-stairs cupboard so viewers can see the potential.
De-clutter
It’s essential and you need to be brutal. Old clothes, linens, furniture that doesn’t seem to have a real home or function, toys, books… You should aim to make several trips to the recycling centre and dump, as well as charity shops. Decluttering doesn’t just tidy the place up and make it look more spacious, it’s an important psychological process as you’re starting to remove “you” from the property.
Neutralise your walls
Repainting the walls in neutral shades serves two purposes; it ticks off one of your DIY jobs and also turns the place into a blank canvas for potential buyers. Paler shades also look better in online photos and virtual tours.
Turn up the lights
Light always makes things look better, so make sure that the curtains are open and you have several sources of light working at the same time. You need overheads, lamps and mood lighting to create texture and eliminate any dark corners.
Bring in a touch of luxury
Invest in a selection of luxurious soft furnishings such as throws, cushions, bed runners and so on that you can dash into place for photos and for viewings. They can really make the difference online and in person.
