Increase your property's 'kerb appeal'
A potential buyer could be put off even before they have set foot inside your front door if they are given a bad first impression. You want them to walk up the drive or path already feeling impressed and excited to see more.
So do what it takes to create that lasting first impression. Make sure the exterior of your home is up to scratch and if your front door or fence is looking tired, brighten it up with a lick of paint. Put up hanging baskets to add colour and if you have a garden plant some bedding flowers. Move bins out of view and clear away anything unsightly.
Spruce up and de-clutter
Making your home attractive to a buyer needn't mean an expensive décor overhaul. Chances are it won't be to the buyer's taste anyway and will be replaced as soon as they move in. But you should freshen up rooms with a neutral lick of paint in warm tones.
Make sure your rooms are clutter-free and as light and airy as possible. A mirror hung in the hall can give the illusion of space and a few vases of flowers or some plants can freshen up the house.
A kitchen is a big selling point, so make sure all the worktops are clear and that it smells fresh and clean. If you do have pets, ask a relative or friend to look after them while viewings are taking place. While you love your furry friend, chances are your buyer won't - or worse still, they may be allergic.
Bear in mind that little things count
Don't forget the detail either. Chances are the buyer will be nit-picking as they will be looking at a number of properties and weighing everything up. So get around now to those annoying little maintenance jobs such as a long overdue light bulb change.
Define each room
Buyers need to be able to picture themselves living in the house so it's essential that each room is shown off to it highlight its purpose. If your dining room is full of work papers or exercise equipment for example, return it to its original purpose. It's also important to de-personalise, for example by taking down posters in the kids bedrooms - so the buyer can see the potential for the house and where they would put their own items.
Stay out of the way!
When potential buyers come to view your property, let them wander freely around the house with the agent. You want them to feel comfortable and as though they can spend time looking at each room freely. Be ready also to answer any questions after the viewing.
Make the most of outdoor space
Gardens or any type of outdoor space can be another great selling point - but an overgrown jungle could see your buyer running mile. Not only will the space look smaller and 'forgotten about', if paying out for a gardener isn't in your viewer's plan or budget, it could completely put them off the property.
