Are you thinking of selling your home in 2023? I know there’s been a few ups and down in the market during the last few months, but I think it’s fair to say we’re starting to see a steadying with mortgage rates decreasing again, and property prices normalising to a pre-pandemic state.
Back Story
As a property expert who has bought and sold many houses over the last twenty years, I understand the importance of preparing your house for viewings. In this blog post, I’ll share with you some top tips to consider when getting your home ready to sell, with a particular focus on how to stage your home followed by a list of simple AND actionable “to dos” that you can focus on, to make your home more appealing to potential buyers.
First and foremost, it’s essential to prepare your home in advance.
Decluttering is crucial, so put any unnecessary items in storage, and ensure that your home is clean and tidy (and smelling great!). You may also want to add personal touches such as scented candles or fresh flowers, but keep the decor neutral to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Ensure that all rooms are well-lit and that there are no awkward or dark corners (and no cobwebs). Tall lights in the corners of rooms can make them look larger, and putting away personal items such as calendars and charts can help potential buyers envision themselves in the space. Lastly, make sure your attic ladder is well-oiled, and keep the space clean and tidy.
Love your garden!
The front of your home is the first thing a potential buyer will see, so it’s essential to make a good first impression. Ensure that your grass is cut, and your plants are looking fresh and colourful. Consider using garden furniture to illustrate the potential for outside living, and ensure that your gutters are clean and free from plants. Use hanging baskets or terracotta pots with plenty of bright flowers to add a pop of colour and interest.
Hide pets during viewings (even the non-furry ones!)
Although we love our furry friends, not everyone will be as enthusiastic about them as we are. Treat them to a visit away from home during viewings to avoid any possible allergies or unwanted pet smells. Clear pet clutter such as beds and toys, as they often take up valuable space – remember, not everybody is a crazy cat lady (ahem).
Create that “welcome home” feeling
Ensure that the porch or front door is well-lit, swept and cobweb-free. Keep the entrance hall clear and enticing, so potential buyers are keen to see more. Polish that door furniture to show a cared-for home, and consider playing soft background music to create a welcoming atmosphere. Ensure that lighting is not too bright or too dark, and avoid using extra heaters or fans during viewings – as they can imply that the heating or cooling is insufficient!
Why not contact us and give us a shot?
At Marshall Tonks, we would be delighted to help you prepare your home for a new owner. We offer a free, no-obligation valuation, so please call us today on 01244 722307.
We are here to provide you with any property-related advice you need and look forward to hearing from you. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to make your home more appealing to potential buyers, resulting in a successful sale.
10 easy to follow steps
To round up then, here are ten easy-to-follow steps to prepare your house for sale:
- Declutter your home, put items in storage and keep the decor neutral.
- Clean your home and add personal touches such as scented candles or fresh flowers.
- Ensure that all rooms are well-lit and there are no awkward or dark corners.
- Use tall lights in the corners of rooms to make them look larger.
- Put away personal items such as calendars and charts to help potential buyers envision themselves in the space.
- Ensure that your attic ladder is well-oiled and keep the space clean and tidy.
- Ensure that your grass is cut, your plants are looking fresh and colourful, and your gutters are clean and free from plants.
- Use hanging baskets or terracotta pots with plenty of bright flowers to add a pop of colour and interest.
- Treat pets to a visit away from home during viewings to avoid any possible allergies or unwanted pet smells.
- Keep the entrance hall clear and enticing, polish the door furniture, and play soft background music to create a welcoming atmosphere.
By following these ten simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to making your home more appealing to potential buyers, resulting in a successful sale.
Remember, at Marshall Tonks, we’re here to help you every step of the way, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for any property-related advice you need.
