Selling your home is a big decision, and it’s important to ensure you are well-prepared before you put it on the market so that you can get the best possible price. Here’s what to do…
Getting your house ready to go on the market is no small task, but if done correctly, it can be very rewarding both financially and emotionally. Making key improvements and taking certain steps before you put your home up for sale will help ensure you get the best price. Here are some key things you can do before you list your home so that it looks its best.
De-Clutter and Depersonalise Your Home
First impressions are everything, so when potential buyers come through your home, you want to ensure everything looks neat and tidy. Get rid of any clutter and depersonalise the space by removing family photos or other personal items that may distract buyers from seeing themselves living in the house.
Make Necessary Repairs
Carrying out repairs can help increase your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers. This includes replacing broken fixtures, fixing plumbing issues, or touching up paint or wallpaper. You should also check for any structural damage that needs to be addressed, such as cracks in walls or ceilings or foundation problems. Taking care of these things ahead of time can make a big difference in how much your house is worth when it’s time to sell.
Get An Expert’s Opinion
It’s also worth seeking expert advice from an estate agent about any key changes you can make that will boost your property’s value. We know of one client who sold his home for considerably more than he would have obtained after being advised by his agent to install a connecting door from his garage (which he used as a music studio) to his dining room.
Stage Your Home
This can increase its value and make it more appealing to prospective buyers. You don’t have to go out and purchase expensive furniture. Rearranging furniture into a more open layout helps accentuate the size of each room while also making them look more inviting. Add some subtle touches, such as fresh flowers or plants, which can help bring some life into each room.
Update Your Curb Appeal
The outside of your home is one of the first things people will see when they come over for viewings, so it’s important that this area looks good too! Make sure all shrubs are trimmed, lawns mowed, and the garden is weeded, so that prospective buyers get a good first impression of your home from the outside. Adding new flower beds or potted plants can also help spruce up an otherwise dull exterior.
Set A Reasonable Price Point
When setting a price point for your property, make sure it reflects both current market values as well as any updates or repairs you’ve made. Don’t set an unrealistic price and seek advice from several estate agents to determine a fair price range based on location, property and the condition of your home.
Think About Who Your Buyer Is
All of these changes are likely to boost the appeal of your home, but one leading estate agent recommends also thinking about the type of buyer you’re trying to attract and what would appeal to them. How will they use the space in your home? Consider whether they’re likely to be looking for a home office or a functional outdoor space.
Finally, make sure your home looks neat and well cared for from the outside, as first impressions are hugely important. If you have a path or driveway, brighten it up with a jet wash clean and remove any weeds.