Home >  Selling >  Selling Tips


Selling Tips

Helpful Hints That Make a Difference 


First Impressions Count
 

Good presentation of your home is a critical factor in achieving an optimum sales price. So you may want to consider the following useful points: 

1.        Make sure that the entrance to your home creates a good first impression. Repair or replace old woodwork, clear away rubbish, cut your grass and tidy any plants. The careful placement of plants around the entrance can lend a touch of colour and make your home feel more inviting. You may even want to add a few more plants to create atmosphere and charm. In addition, if you have a pool, ensure that it is clear of leaves, the water clean, tiles are clean top and bottom and any pool equipment is stored away. 

2.        Ensure that your bathrooms are as attractive as they can be a major selling point. A fresh coat of paint, new mirror, blinds or curtains, green plants or even just a few soft, matching towels can give an old bathroom a valuable lift in appearance. 

3.        If your kitchen needs a makeover, add some baskets of fruit, flowers, attractive blinds or fresh paint. Put away the clutter and old electrical items, particularly if the kitchen is small. 

4.        Create a bright atmosphere by opening curtains and blinds, clearing branches or bushes that are overhanging and crowding windows as well as installing higher wattage bulbs in dark areas. 

5.        Generate an impression of space by opening windows and doors, removing any clutter including unnecessary furniture or ornaments and by keeping walkways clear. 

6.        Keep your home warm and welcoming in colder months by lighting open fires or putting on the heater. In summer, turn on the air conditioning or let in the breeze by opening windows and doors. 

7.        It is rarely necessary to conduct expensive structural work before selling a home. Make sure any obvious damage is repaired but take advice before adding extensions, pools or other major features. Having an exterior house wash, provides an inexpensive way to really give a lift to paintwork. Use a soft wash rather than water blasting unless the paint work is very robust. Don't forget fences, gates, paths and decks! 

8.        Pets should be kept well out of the way during open homes. You may cherish your pet, but some people will not come into a house that has a dog running loose. 

9.        Lastly, ensure that everything is clean, tidy and smelling fresh. Make the beds, clear sinks of dishes, put away clothes and if you feel it's necessary, have your carpets professionally cleaned, particularly if pets are present, and when windows sparkle, the whole home seems to take on more vitality and life. 


Handy Hint 
Brew fresh, hot coffee for the open homes to help set the scene!