Spring has definitely sprung and everywhere seems to be more colourful. In the past few weeks, here at Belton Duffey we have seen more properties coming onto the market.
If you are getting ready to market your property, it isn't just about choosing the right agent. Presenting your property at its very best for photographs and viewings can make the difference; make sure you start to look at your property through buyers' eyes. Follow my tips and advice and you could achieve a faster sale at the best possible price.
EXTERIOR APPEAL
First impressions matter and they start outside with many buyers doing a drive-by visit before deciding whether to view. Consider mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, weeding, cleaning gutters and windows, removing children's toys from the garden, adding potted plants and giving the front door and window frames a fresh coat of paint. Once inside, the entrance hall needs to create the right impression as well, paint it a neutral colour, get the lighting right and add colour with accessories or a rug.
REPAIR, RESTORE AND REVAMP
Fix outstanding repairs such as leaky taps, sticking doors and drawers, repaint bold colours in neutral tones, touch up scuffed paintwork and get rid of odours such as food, cigarettes or pet smells. Replace cushions and bedspreads, hang up fresh towels and put up a new shower curtain.
SPRING CLEAN
Make the house sparkle! Buyers want to see a clean home with no signs of dirt. Vacuum throughout and dust surfaces remembering skirting boards and light fixtures. Polish taps and mirrors, bleach tile grout and clean the oven and fridge as viewers have been known to look!
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Make sure all curtains and blinds are open and remove net curtains. The wrong light can make a home seem dark so add lamps to dark areas and use brighter light bulbs where necessary. Repaint darker rooms in neutral tones as a bright, cheerful room looks bigger and more inviting.
AND SPACE
Its all about helping the buyers to imagine themselves living in your home and how it suits their needs and lifestyle. Create the right environment and space by displaying rooms as they should be used. Do not overfill rooms with too much or oversized furniture (consider putting surplus items into storage), declutter and depersonalise.
PETS
As much as I and my four legged friends like meeting prospective buyers, take us out for a walk while viewings take place. Not everybody likes pets and those that do (and who wouldn't love me?) might pay us more attention than they do the house. Don't forget to remove pets bowls, beds and litter trays.
I hope this article is useful but please do contact my colleagues at Belton Duffey for any specific advice.
Please do call in and see me at the Fakenham and Wells-next-the-Sea offices - treats appreciated!
Ruben
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