If you want to change the message your home is sending, you need to improve it's "kerb appeal". If you are preparing to sell your home there are some very simple ways of helping to ensure that you get a fast sale at the best possible price.
- Remember that the first impression of any potential buyer will be formed very quickly and their impression forming begins as they approach your front gate. Bearing this in mind, a good place to begin your preparations for sale is your front garden or property entrance.
- If you have a garden you should do everything you can to maximise its attractiveness, this doesn't mean you have to call in the professionals, usually a good mow, some pruning and the addition of hanging baskets or outdoor pots will go a long way to enhancing the appeal of your garden.
- Make sure that grass is short, tidy and weed free. Edging your lawn will create an impression of tidiness.
- If you have beds - weed them!
- Make sure that all dead plants are removed and replaced by flowering plants. Remove any dead leaves, rubbish, toys etc. from your garden.
- If your gates or front walls are looking a bit shabby give them a coat of paint.
- If you have a garage or garden shed clear out the clutter. Space is always important to potential buyers. If you have a lot of stuff that you actually use in your garage or shed it's a good idea to box it up and store it - after all you're going to have to pack it for moving anyway.
- Give your windows a good clean.
- If the exterior of your property is in need of a paint invest in some - it will definitely prove to be money well spent!
- If you haven't painted or varnished your front door in the last year repaint it.
- If you have brasses polish them.
- Make sure that your door way is cobweb free and that your front bell or knocker is in good working order.
- The most important thing inside your home is to make sure that it is spotlessly clean and clutter free.
- A fresh coat of paint will instantly clean and renew its look. If you are painting, choose neutral colours whether or not you personally like them. You must remember to constantly look at your home through the eyes of the buyer, so, while you might like bright pink the chances are it is not to most peoples taste.
- Neutrals enhance space and the sense of brightness.
- Having rooms packed with furniture will make them look much smaller. Take out needless items and put them into storage until you move.
- Move the furniture around to highlight the spaciousness of each room.
- If you have bookshelves tidy them up placing books in order of height.
- Make sure everything is dust free.
- Clean curtains and dust down blinds.
- If carpets are looking grubby have them steam cleaned - you can hire a cleaner yourself or else call in the professionals.
- If your floors are wooden have them waxed or polished.
- Clean out all your wardrobes and presses. Much as it may pain you, throw out or give away clothes and other items you do not use. Lots of storage space is a good selling feature and packed untidy presses create the impression that there is a lack of space in a property.
- For most buyers the kitchen and the bathroom are the most significant rooms in any house, this is usually due to the fact that they are the most expensive rooms to refit so it is very important that you make the most of them.
- Clean everything thoroughly - inside presses, cookers, under sinks.
- Make sure that fittings are working properly - buyers are turned off by leaking taps and dripping showers.
- In the kitchen make sure that all work surfaces are spotless and remember not to cook strong smelling foods in advance of viewings.
- As with the kitchen the bathroom must be spotless.
- Clean down everything in your bathroom from ceiling to floor.
- You can renew the look of tiles by whitening the grout (whitener is available in DIY stores)
- You might want to consider swapping your plastic toilet seat for a wooden one.
- If you have an old shower curtain, replace it with a new one.
- Hide your cheap supermarket toiletries and display well packaged smart toiletries, add some candles and new towels.
- Other cheap ways of making a difference include replacing dusty old lampshades, adding new cushions, throws and tablecloths in luxury fabrics to furniture.
- Buy some nice leafy house plants and fresh flowers to add life.
Advertisement
