Spring is traditionally the best time to put your home on the market, as this is a popular time to sell and it is a lovely idea to think that you could be moved into a new home by the time the summer months arrive.
Starting to prepare now for a move in 2019 will certainly help, in order to make the best possible impression on buyers who are somewhat nervous and cash-conscious at the moment. We have listed some suggestions below in order to get your place market ready in time:
1. Dump your junk
Now is the time to declutter. Nobody wants to look at piles of rubbish such as old magazines etc… When preparing, it is good to make sure everything is tidied away. Once everything is minimal, you could follow a stylish approach by having a symmetrical focus, such as lamps and bedside tables either side of the bed for example.
2. Go neutral
Quiet and inoffensive sells much better than loud and loopy, so if you are a fan of bright coloured walls it may be time to give each room a once over with some sensible off-white shades.
3. Let there be light
There are small things you can do to improve the look of a property. Maximising the feeling of space and light. Consider simplifying the windows by replacing heavy curtains with shutters or blinds. Good lighting is key to showing a home at its best, both in creating the illusion of space and to create a designed look. On gloomy days, high-voltage lightbulbs will help to make your home look cheery and bright.
4. Set the stage
If you have a bedroom which is not used and looks like a junk room, clear it out and stage it properly as a beautiful guest bedroom. Buyers may not necessarily see the potential of a space if you don’t make it obvious.
5. Sweet smells
If you have pets, ask an honest friend if they can smell your pet in the house. If the answer is yes, you may need to air the place thoroughly and clean carpets, curtains etc.
Smokers face a similar challenge and should consider giving up the habit indoors, during the sale period at least.
6. First impressions count
Buyers tend to make up their mind about a property within 30 seconds. Make sure the front garden is free of weeds and leaves, keep hedges trimmed and paving and pathways swept. Line up bins tidily or, if you have a bin store, use it.
You may wish to consider giving the front door a lick of paint if necessary and polish door furniture. A couple of plants in pots can make a home look more loved. If you have an off-street parking space, remove your car so that prospective buyers can feel the benefit of it for themselves when they arrive. It is also important to pay attention to the hallway. Remove coats and pictures from the entrance hall as they can make the corridors feel dark and narrow. Put up a mirror instead to bounce light about.
7. Finishing touches
Get the windows cleaned. Clean surfaces to create fresh-smelling surroundings and take the bins out. Create a pleasant aroma, make some coffee just before a viewing.
8. Brief your team
A good agent will always arrange a team visit, so the seller can meet the individuals who will be conducting the viewing and provide the feedback. It also gives the seller a chance to show agents any unusual aspect or storage which is not obvious, and tell the agent what they have enjoyed about the property.
9. Photos, photos, photos
Buyers scan hundreds of properties on websites before deciding which ones to view, so fantastic images are crucial. Some agents do a terrible job, so it is worth checking their photography on previous house sales first. You could, of course, hire a professional, see if any of your friends could help or do it yourself, taking the time to take really good, clear and bright shots.
10. Future planning
Owners are increasingly investing in applying for planning permission for a loft or rear extensions to their homes before putting them on the market. The process should take about eight weeks to complete. Planning consents generally have a shelf life of three years and can be passed on to a new owner. Knowing that they could add an extra bedroom or enlarging the kitchen without any council red tape can be a big inducement to buyers.
For further information on the legal services that Lamb & Holmes can provide please contact our Kettering office on 01536 513 195 or our Corby office on 01536 745 168 dependent on your location.
