Google searches for “houses to sale” have shot up by over 200% in the last month, as a result of lockdown ending. This suggests people are now feeling more comfortable about putting their property on the market and exploring other options.
In a competitive London market, first impressions are vital. The initial impression it makes on a potential buyer or tenant can make all the difference between a speedy transaction, or a property that lingers on the market for months.
Here are some simple yet effective ways to stage your home and show of your property in its best light.
Front door, garden and hallway
Your front door is the first thing that potential buyers will see. Be sure that your front door is freshly painted, with welcoming flowers alongside the door.
Most importantly, make sure that everything surrounding the front of your property is clean, clear from leaves and tidy.
Kitchen
The kitchen is the hardest working room in the house and needs to be organised, tidy and clean! This goes without saying, but dirty dishes don’t leave a good impression.
General cleaning
Clean the windows, wash the floors, open the windows and get some fresh air moving through the house.
Decorate
Gloss paint has made a comeback as it bounces light around and makes small spaces really uplifted. Take stock of your furniture and decorations and give them a fresh lease on life if you need to.
Change wardrobe and doorknobs
This is a low-cost, high impact change. Clear out, donate clothes you do not wear anymore and keep your wardrobe neat and tidy as buyers will have a look inside.
Carpets
This is one of the most important tips. If your carpets are marked, then have them cleaned or change them.
Tidy, tidy, tidy
Make your bed, pull back the curtains, put your clothes away! Don’t leave too much lying around the house as it highlights a lack of storage.
Green fingers and gardens
Pot plants really zing up a room as they add life, colour, CO2, and they are very reasonably priced.
Tidy up your garden, weed, get rid of old broken chairs, BBQ’s and plant up some pots with plants or edible veggies as these look fantastic when they start flowering in May.
Minimise personal possessions
Too many photos or belongings can be overwhelming and distracting so having a declutter will make a big difference..
Mantelscaping
Simple, yet so effective. Make the mantelpiece really appealing and decorate it beautifully.
Tyrena Dangerfield is head of refurbishment and interiors at Estate Agents Douglas & Gordon.
For a more detail on staging your home click here.
