If you’re preparing to put your house on the market, and looking for advice on how to get a quick sale at a great price, then read on for our top tips on how to maximise your home’s appeal to potential buyers.
Some of these ideas are cost-free and simply require a bit of time while others can be done on a fairly small budget.
1. Declutter.
It might sound obvious but it’s amazing how many homeowners overlook this initial step. Having a good clear-out is the ideal starting point for home staging. The aim is to be minimalistic (but not to the point where your home looks completely devoid of character) so that potential buyers can get a clear view of the space and ‘bones’ of your property.
2. De-personalise.
This can be tricky but in essence means removing family photographs, sentimental items or anything overtly personal – a shrine to The Beach Boys might make for your favourite room in the house but could be off-putting to potential buyers who need to imagine living there.
3. Repairs.
It’s worth dealing with any minor problems such as dents in walls, broken door handles, chipped tiles, damaged furniture etc. It’s easy to overlook wear and tear when life gets busy but potential buyers will spot these immediately.
4. Deep clean.
Your home should be at it’s best for viewers. Make sure the bathroom is clear of any mould or limescale build-up and the kitchen sink, oven and hob are as sparkling. Floors should be as clean as possible; consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner to get rid of any marks on carpets. Bad smells are also a no-no, it’s better to address the root cause of any odours rather than than mask with a fake scent. Throw the windows open before viewings too so there’s plenty of fresh air circulating.
5. Front Door.
Pay attention to the front door as first impressions do count. If in reasonable condition, maybe a lick of paint is all that’s required for a quick glow-up. Don’t shy away from colour either; sage green or slate blue shades can span both modern and traditional tastes. A plant pot (or two) and a new doormat also help to create a welcoming threshold.
6. Kitchen.
This is the heart of the home for good reason. If you have a kitchen big enough for dining and socialising, it’s really worth going to town on this room. Ensure all surfaces and worktops are spotless and clutter-free. Are the units in good condition still? If a bit tired looking, a colour refresh with paint or vinyl wrap might help. Even updating the hardware with new handles or sockets can make a difference. A vase of flowers and bowl of fresh fruit are the perfect finishing touches.
7. Bathroom.
If the bathroom looks a bit tired and you don’t want to do a full-refurb, your could refresh this space by painting the walls or adding contemporary panelling detail, hanging new wall art, replacing an old shower screen or adding new vinyl flooring. A set of clean, fluffy towels will complete the bathroom look.
8. Bedrooms.
If possible, have clean duvets and bedspreads that you use just for viewings, A pretty vase with flower stem on the bedside table can be a nice touch. Consider adding new curtain tie-backs or replacing old blinds. Prospective buyers will always notice attention to detail.
9. Mirrors.
Wall-hung mirrors in a narrow hallway or small room help to bounce light around and make a dark room or gloomy hallway appear bigger and brighter.
10. Garden Tidy.
Outside space can sometimes be overlooked in the mad rush to spruce up the house. Make sure all garden equipment is neatly stored out of sight, grass is neatly cut and plants and shrubs are tidy. Consider adding extra potted plants for greenery and pop of colour if the area looks too bare, pots can always come with you when you move.
For any advice on selling your home, please get in touch with one of our experienced team members at CODA on 0141 775 1050 or enquiries@codaestates.co.uk who will be happy to help.
