When getting your home ready to attract potential buyers, there are several important steps you can take to maximize its appeal.
1. Start by emotionally detaching from the house. Shift your mindset from seeing it as your "home" to viewing it as a property that’s ready to be sold. If this is difficult, imagine yourself in the new home you’re hoping to buy, handing over the keys and moving on.
2. Depersonalise the space by removing personal items like family photos and mementos from visible surfaces. Creating clear and uncluttered spaces helps buyers envision their own belongings in the room, making it easier for them to imagine living there.
3. Don’t overlook the small details. Simple updates like replacing old kitchen cabinet knobs with modern ones can quickly refresh a space. The same applies to bathrooms - swapping out towel rails, toilet roll holders, and adding plush towels or decorative soaps can elevate the room’s style.
4. Invest some effort into deep cleaning. Ensure windows are spotless, cobwebs are removed, walls are wiped down, furniture is dusted, faucets are polished, and dirty grout is bleached. These tasks can make your home feel fresh and well-maintained, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom, which are key areas of interest for buyers.
5. Enhance the exterior by adding a few brightly colored potted plants near entrances, on decks, or along garden edges. These touches can create an inviting atmosphere and can be taken with you when you move. Additionally, tidy the garden, trim hedges, and mow the lawn to boost your home’s curb appeal. If you need help or advice with this give Jake a call at Allout Hedge and Tree Maintenance Ltd and check out their landscaping support they can give you with that first impression!
6. Make sure the entrance to your home is decluttered and welcoming. Since this is one of the first impressions buyers will have of the interior, you want it to feel open and inviting, not cramped or cluttered.
7. Evaluate the overall curb appeal of your home. Consider if the exterior needs a fresh coat of paint, or if the deck could use some staining. Even small updates, like replacing house numbers or adding a new welcome mat, can make a big difference in creating a positive first impression.
8. Organize closets and cupboards, especially walk-in wardrobes, as buyers are likely to peek inside. Neat, well-organized storage spaces not only look more attractive but also make packing easier when it’s time to move.
9. If your home is crowded with furniture, think about renting a storage unit. Reducing the amount of furniture can make your home feel more spacious and appealing to a broader range of buyers. Decluttering in general will also help create a more open and inviting atmosphere.
10. Finally, after completing these preparations, take a step back and evaluate your home from a buyer's perspective. Drive up to the house and walk through it as if you were seeing it for the first time. If anything catches your eye in a negative way, address it before listing the property.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to present your home to potential buyers, setting the stage for a successful sale and paving the way for your next move.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
