Hints & Tips
HOME PRESENTATION
Buyers are attracted by the appearance of your home and, when they inspect it they are influenced by its atmosphere. The right appearance outside followed by the right mood inside gives you the best chance of getting the highest price.
The challenge is to make your home as attractive as possible without spending too much money. Try to look at your home from the perspective of a buyer.
THE OUTSIDE APPEARANCE
- Hose the paths and the outside of your home to remove dust and cobwebs.
- Clean the windows. Weed the brick paving and rake up any leaves.
- Flowers do wonders, display some in pots or plant some annuals in advance.
- Mow the lawn and weed the garden.
- Clean front entrance, doormat and doors for a good first impression.
THE INSIDE ATMOSPHERE
- Make sure the home is bright and airy by opening the curtains.
- Whatever the season make sure the temperature in the home is comfortable.
- Remove clutter from the rooms and put away precious items.
- You may want to have a garage sale. (Less to pack when you move)
- Make sure the kitchen and bathrooms are clean to the point of sparkling. These rooms are very important to prospective buyers, especially women.
- If you have pets, be careful because their smell, while familiar to you, can be unpleasant to others. Take pet bowls and cat tray outside.
MINOR REPAIRS
Attend to any unfinished work in your home, such as skirting boards that have been removed, door handles missing, broken fly screens or cupboard doors not hanging properly.
MAJOR REPAIRS
If your home needs major renovation, it may be better to avoid the expense of renovation and have a lower asking price. Many buyers want to renovate a home to suit their own taste. You may wish to discuss this with your agent, as every property is unique.
