How To Present Your Home For Viewings
Presentation matters
Buyers are coming to look around your property so you need to make extra effort to show off your home at its best. Don’t make buyers imagine how good it could be – show them! If your property’s selling point is the view – set up a couple of chairs and a table showing that it’s a great place to relax. Go all out to impress, get this right and you’ll be off to a great start. Here are some tips to prepare for viewings:-
Drive by appeal
Many buyers will make a drive-by visit to your property before they decide whether or not to make a viewing. Tidy up the outside of your home, regularly mow your lawn, trim the hedges and remove any weeds from your beds or pathways. If it’s the right season, consider putting some hanging baskets outside the property.
Bathrooms and toilets
Clear away the mountain of sponges, toiletries, medication and make up that somehow accumulates. Clear away the children’s bath toys and bring out the best towels. Bath and Shower fittings should be spotlessly clean, open windows to remove any excess moisture or smells. Consider replacing bathroom sealants if a little discoloured.
Living areas
Clutter makes a room feel smaller and harder for a buyer to imagine living in your home. Ensure distinctive features, like fireplaces, can be fully appreciated. Let the natural daylight flood in by pulling back the curtains and removing any items that might be blocking the light. Keep the house warm in winter and turn off the TV or any music that might be distracting.
Kitchen
Clean and clear surfaces, sinks and door fronts. Opening a window to get rid of any cooking smells is a good idea. More attractive smells can be generated from freshly brewed coffee or plug in diffusers. Pets bowls could be hidden away for the viewing.
Space and order
Potential buyers will want to see every room, so make an extra effort on all spaces in your house. The reality is that sometimes kids bedrooms can look like warzones but spending time making them look like bedrooms will have a more positive effect. Toys can be boxed and clothes tided away but be careful, some buyers may want to look inside cupboards and a well organised cupboard is often a positive message!
Garden
For many people the garden is one of the biggest selling points. Tidy away any rubbish, weed and cut the grass, use potted plants to soften patios and yards. A seasonal fertilizer can add colour to a tired lawn. Be sure to cut back any boisterous bushes, particularly in smaller gardens.
And finally, you love your pets but……
Your potential buyers may not. Ask a partner, friend or neighbour to take care of them during viewing times so they do not cause distraction or scare any potential buyer from your property!!