Giving your fridge and microwave a thorough clean will attract potential buyers but cracks, mould and exposed wires are most likely to put them off.
That is the verdict of over 1,200 home hunters who were quizzed over the features which left the most positive and negative impressions during their house viewing experiences.
Extensive cracks, marks or stains on the walls, ceilings or floors appeared to be the biggest turn off, according to the survey by Sellhousefast, with 76% of respondents naming this as a massive turn off.
Nearly the same proportion, 71%, left feeling downbeat after finding fixtures such as toilets and taps not functioning properly.
And more than half felt disappointed with heavily damaged or worn out kitchen cabinets. Other features which proved big viewing turn-offs for potential buyers were exposed wires, uneven or broken flooring and mould in the bathroom.
Mayur Shah, an estate agent from London, said: “Those viewing properties can be extremely judgemental. If they see multiple household appliances in less than satisfactory state, they will then conclude that the current occupiers have not looked after or adequately maintained other parts of the property.
“So, my advice is to pay equal attention to cleaning the small as well as the big features – as they together form an overall picture of the property.”
Cleaning up
In fact, according to estate agents surveyed by Sellhousefast, simply giving certain areas a really good clean can make a huge difference to a successful sale.
Nearly three quarters suggested thoroughly cleaning household appliances such as the fridge, microwave and oven before a viewing.
Almost the same proportion of estate agents recommended mowing the lawn, removing weeds and trimming any overgrown hedges to make the garden more presentable.
More than half of those quizzed suggested taking down family photos and artwork in order to de-personalise the home and allow viewers to better imagine themselves living there.
Meanwhile, removing bulky furniture can help create the impression of more space.
Shah added: “Property seekers now more than ever before place a real emphasis on gardens. In some respects, putting the same light on a garden as they would with other rooms inside the property.
“With respects to the garden, my recommendation is to always remove dead plants, cut unappealing shrubs, mow overgrown grass, add colourful plants, get rid of litter and replace any damaged fences before conducting any viewings”.
