When it comes to putting your house on the market, the first step is to think about how you can make your property more saleable. A new kitchen and carpets might be out of the question, but there are still plenty of small jobs you can do which will have a big influence on the speed and price of your sale. 

Here are our top ten things that you can do to show off your property and make it as attractive as possible to potential buyers.

Kerb appeal

First impressions really do count, and buyers will often drive past properties to get a quick look and a feel for the area. Tidy up the front of your property to get them interested and set a positive tone for the rest of your buyer’s viewing experience.

Give the windows and doors a wipe down, pull out any weeds, and if needed, put down a new doormat. You can also add some annual flowers outside for a splash of colour – pansies are a great option and available all year round, just deadhead them to keep the flowers coming.

This attention to detail shows buyers that you’re house proud, giving them confidence that the rest of the property will be just as well looked after. 

Declutter

Having lots of clutter around the house can prevent buyers from seeing the full potential of your property. Busy rooms not only feel smaller, but they also suggest that there might be something to hide. 

By clearing away any clutter, you can help give buyers a better feel for your property. Pack away items that you don’t need, and if you can’t remember the last time you used something, maybe consider donating it to charity or selling it on.

With fewer distractions to focus on, buyers will be able to see the space for what it is and have confidence that the house is in good condition. Plus it’ll make the moving process that much easier for you later on!

Organise your storage

While decluttering, think about how you can go about making the most of your available storage space. We tend to accumulate all sorts of things over time, and although we make room for them, buyers will be looking for a new home that can comfortably fit all their items right from the start. 

This means they will be more than happy to open your cupboards, so it’s a good idea to get them organised – especially when it comes to kitchens and built-in wardrobes. Hangers, boxes, modular units and racks are great for tidying up your storage and maximising your available space. 

If the cupboards are still too full, then you could rent out a storage unit or borrow a friend’s spare room. These options are also great for decluttering any items you don’t need but want to hold onto.

DIY

Eagle-eyed buyers pay close attention to the finer details, and some might be put off by the prospect of DIY. If you have a list of any small maintenance jobs that you’ve been meaning to do, then now is the time to get them ticked off. 

Think about fixing any little quirks around your home like creaky staircases and loose door handles. Does any paintwork need touching up? Old water stains might mean nothing, but they could be read as something much bigger by surveyors. 

Getting quick jobs like these done can have a real impact on the speed and price of your sale, showing buyers that your house is in good condition.  

Go neutral

A coat of paint can do wonders when getting a property ready to sell, but make sure to steer clear of bold colours and patterns. They might look fantastic, but these won’t be to everyone’s liking. It would then be difficult to get the house back to basics, which could deter viewers from making an offer. 

Instead, opt for calm colours that would suit any style and can be easily painted over. This will make your home feel fresh, open and airy, while also getting your property ready for any buyer regardless of what their personal tastes in decor might be. 

Think ‘show home’

When viewing a property, buyers will try to imagine what it could be like for them to live there. This means it’s important to strike a balance between clutter-free and cold. Small touches like well-placed flowers, coffee table books and statement pieces can add some warmth and character that will keep your property feeling homely.

Show homes and lifestyle magazines have been carefully designed to make people fall in love with a property, so look to these for inspiration. Lighting and mirrors are often used to make rooms appear bigger and brighter, while symmetry can help create visual order and a sense of calmness. 

Fresh scents

Before viewings, you’ll want to get your home smelling as fresh as a daisy. Clear any drains and indoor bins, and make sure you’re recycling is as far away from the back door as possible. It’s also a good idea to open any windows and get the fresh air circulating.

If you want to add some pleasant fragrances, try not to go overboard with the air freshener and avoid using bleach right before viewing times. More natural smells are the way to go, with fresh flowers, baked goods and coffee helping to create a welcoming and homely atmosphere.

Pets

We love all animals big and small, but the truth is that animal smells are one of the most off-putting for buyers. Take your beloved four-legged family member for a little pampering session at the groomers, which will also help to reduce any hair and keep your house clean. 

Once you have them smelling beautiful, focus on the rest of the house. Tidy away toys and treats, keep gardens clean, and try to hide any litter trays. If you have an especially fluffy friend, make sure to sweep and hoover before each viewing. 

Also bear in mind that allergies and phobias are common, and as a seller, you’ll want to make sure your viewers have a positive experience. To be on the safe side, try to arrange for pets to be looked after by a friend or family member during viewings. 

Plumbing  

Leaky taps, toilets and radiators can lead to further damage and hint at other issues. Getting these fixed before putting your house on the market will give buyers confidence in the rest of your house and make your property more attractive. 

It’s also likely that your buyers will want to check whether or not the water pressure is up to scratch. Low pressure can be caused by a buildup of limescale, so try tying a bag of white vinegar around the tap or showerhead and leave this to soak overnight. This is a quick and simple remedy that could lead to a quicker sale. 

Clean everything

Your house might not be a new build, but it will still be new to your future buyers. Make sure to thoroughly clean every room from top to bottom, including cupboards, ovens, and most importantly, bathrooms. 

Cleaning thoroughly will make your house all the more attractive, showing buyers that your house is well cared for and making them feel comfortable in your property. It will also let them know that you’re willing to help make their moving process that much easier.  

Get advice from Telford’s best rated estate agent

If you’re ready to put the gears in motion, then get in touch to book your free valuation. While we’re there, ask as many questions as you like about preparing your home for sale. We’ll be more than happy to offer some advice on what you can do to help improve your prospects and secure that asking price.

When you’re ready to put your property on the market, our professional photography service will make sure your home looks just as good online as it does in person. Call today to find out why we’re Telford’s best rated estate agent. 

 

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