Preparing your property for a valuation & sale

Firstly, work out what you want… the vast majority of the time people want a quick sale at the highest possible price. But have you considered what you can do to make this happen? Putting yourself into any potential buyer’s shoes is a great starting point…

• What would impress you?
• What makes the property stand out?
• What wouldn’t you want to see?

Getting the price right…

Before looking at anything a buyer will be taking note of the price and getting it right is key. Overpricing can be detrimental in a number of ways; putting people off arranging a viewing, making an offer and incorrectly appearing beyond affordability. 

Using a free valuation tool can give you an estimation of what price your property is likely to achieve and booking in a market appraisal will provide you with an accurate figure. 

Has your property got kerb appeal?

People will always have an initial opinion of a property before they’ve stepped foot inside, even if they’ve seen property photos online. If the outside of your property is untidy it can set a negative tone. 

Make sure there are no eyesores, mess, untidy bins or dirt. Instead think of what you can do to improve the outlook, adding some life and colour is always a good tip to consider. This can easily be achieved with things like hanging baskets, cleaning down or a coat of paint on the door, cleaned windows & frames… 

 

Declutter & clear space…

You should remember that your buyer is trying to imagine themselves living in your home, but if they can’t see what’s on offer or how good it is then you are missing a trick. While there are things in your day-to-day life that have become the norm, their lives are completely different… 

Tidy away the toys, don’t overload sides with photos or décor, perhaps take a few frames off the walls – this could help buyers to imagine how they could use the spaces of a decluttered/blank canvas. 

Get rid of that ‘pile of stuff’ that has been sitting on the side or the floor and be ruthless with your decision making… when was the last time you needed or used it?

Clean, clean, clean!

You wouldn’t want to buy an item of clothing that is dirty, so why treat a property any differently? Have a quick vac around the house, dust and spray the worktops. Cleaning throughout is a great way to set a positive atmosphere and pay particular attention to the spaces that are typically the most used… the kitchen and bathrooms! The more cleaning you can do, the better. 

Add life & light…

Adding some life and light to your property could go a long way. Opening blinds or curtains will not only let light in but also make the spaces feel extended, so buyers can see further than the end of a room. 

The unpredictability of the weather can play a part on moods, if it’s a particularly dull day then make sure you have some lighting on in each room but try not to be blinding. Dark spaces in any rooms make it harder to appreciate what is on offer, you want your buyers to be able to see the full picture. 

Animals & odours…

While there is no doubting your pets are a hugely important part of your family, not everyone loves animals. Pet hair and odours can be off-putting, a few simple considerations can help your cause… perhaps ask a friend to take care of your pet while a viewing is ongoing, where possible try not to have fed your pet just before a viewing, smells can take a while to clear! 

With or without pets, it is a good idea to have some fresh air or a pleasant scent on the go, but nothing that is too overpowering. If you are a pet lover, remember how distracting animals can be, you don’t want them to be the star of the show.

The great outdoors…

Just like having a clean and tidy interior you should consider ensuring your garden is as neat as possible; mow the lawn, clear up leaves, tame any overgrowing bushes and trees. Remember that your buyer is picturing themselves outside as well as inside. 

While we’ve already highlighted the importance of not cluttering spaces you also want to showcase how much space there is, perhaps have a tidy garden dining set out, or a clean barbecue… help the buyer see the potential.

Make use of professionals!

Our professional photographers can help you to showcase your home both online and offline. With the majority of buyers searching online for their next home the importance of good photos cannot be higher, after-all a picture is worth a thousand words.

Taking onboard advice and recommendations could make the difference, remember we are here to help. The advice might not always be exactly what you are hoping to hear but suggestions are made with your best interests in mind.  

Carry out any jobs you’ve been putting off…

Don’t be scared to get ‘that job’ done – if you’ve not yet found the time, try and make the time. If somewhere needs a fresh coat of paint, then do so or ask for some help in doing so. 

A handful of DIY jobs can quickly make an unfinished space look more appealing. If it’s something you don’t want to do, then it is unlikely a buyer will either.

Hands free home…

Smart technology is becoming more common and important to buyers. Homes with mobile control over heating systems may be worth considering. It could be in your interest to see the potential impact a smart heating system has on your Energy Performance Certificate and the knock-on effect that has on the sale price of your home.

Broadband speeds are another factor your buyer may be considering, if your area is fibre optic compatible then it is definitely worth highlighting.