Spring is one of the busiest times for the property market as buyers emerge from the winter lull full of enthusiasm for their search for a new home.
Figures from estate agents suggest the number of buyers looking for properties is healthy at the moment, having picked up following the uncertainty hindering house hunters before Brexit.
But sellers who are about to put their home on the market will still be keen to make sure their home stands out from the crowd.
To help you prioritise the items on your pre-viewing ‘to do’ list NAEA Propertymark, the professional body which represents estate agents, has come up with a list of top tips to ensure your house creates the right impression.
Lauren Scott, president of NAEA Propertymark, said: “With housing market activity on the rise during February and March, it’s important to take every step to make your property stand out above the competition.”
First impressions
According to estate agents, buyers often decide if they like a property within seconds of arriving, so kerb appeal is vital.
If necessary, spruce up your front door with a lick of paint or buy a new doorknob, brass letterbox or stainless steel house number to add a more welcoming and stylish touch.
Spring cleaning
It will come as no surprise to hear buyers are put off by anything that looks grubby, especially during the season of fresh beginnings.
Giving your house a proper Spring clean will ensure any old winter grime is removed from the property. Deep clean the carpets and makes sure curtains or upholstery are dust free.
If you do this before your house is put on the market, the property will look good in the estate agent’s pictures too.
Focus on the kitchen and bathrooms
According to NAEA Propertymark, kitchens and bathrooms can make or break a sale, so it’s important to make sure these rooms are at their best.
In the bathroom hide any unappealing pipework and fix tiling which looks worn. It’s a good idea to tidy away bathroom clutter such as body wash, cleaning products and toilet rolls etc to create a less personal and more minimalist space.
If your kitchen is looking shabby, you don’t need to fork out for a completely new one. Simply replace any worn work surfaces and doors. These changes will totally transform the space, said NAEA Propertymark.
Light
This is one of the easiest things you can do to impress a buyer. Dark spaces can be a turn off to buyers so letting in the light will create a welcoming effect.
Allow the sun pour in and maximise natural light as much as possible by opening curtains and blinds and giving any dirty windows a scrub before putting your property on the market.
Minimalist decor
Your taste in decor may not be everyone’s cup of tea and potential buyers must be able to picture themselves living in the space and not feel like an intruder in someone else’s home.
So, it’s a good idea to remove anything conveying too much personality. Keep your decoration simple and colours neutral to offer buyers a blank slate on which to build their own home.
Flowers
It’s very simple, but having fresh flowers on display is an effective way to present your house as well kept.
Flowers also play a vital role in giving rooms a lift and create a clean fragrance to greet a buyer. No matter how well your home is presented, a few simple touches with some neutral flowers will enhance the property’s appeal, says NAEA Propertymark.
Remove pets
Pets can leave an odour and while their owner may have become immune to this, a buyer will pick up on it immediately.
Therefore, if you have pets, air the property in advance of any viewings, light a freshly-scented candle to mask any lingering smells and consider leaving your pet with a friend or family member for the duration.
