If you are looking to move, you need potential buyers to be able to imagine themselves living in your home. Here are six ideas of things you can do to prepare your home for sale.
Consider the selling price
Get the opinions of more than one agent on what is realistic for your property – you may want to do your own research by gathering the latest news on house sales in your area. Of course, your house is only worth what someone is prepared to pay, but if you set the asking price correctly, you can be sure it will appear in searches made by someone looking for your type of property.
Ensure necessary repairs are carried out
Make sure that everything is in proper working order. Central heating is always high on the list, so get a service carried out again if it has been more than a year since it was last done.
Ensure your home gives a good first impression
Think about what the buyer will see when they first arrive and make sure your house looks tidy from the front. Inside, you will need to de-clutter and create space. Take as many of your personal items out as possible so that the potential buyer can more easily imagine their own things in the space.
Choose the right time to sell
Information on selling a house will usually state that the best time to put your house on the market is the spring, since buyers prefer to move during the longer summer days and when it is more likely the children will be off school. Consider the selling points of your home, however. If you are in the catchment area for a good school, your buyers may want to be in the property sooner to allow them to apply for a place.
Photography
Although the photographs are often handled by the estate agent, you can enlist a professional to take these, ensuring your home is presented from the best possible angle.
Online Presence
Make sure the estate agent you choose lists properties online. This will reach a larger audience, especially those looking to move into the area.
Floorplans
Make sure a floorplan of your property is included in the listing, so that buyers can see the room sizes and visualise the layout.
