Tips In Preparing Your Property For Viewings

Quality photographs and a concise, clear description of your property may well prompt a potential buyer into requesting a viewing, but your property must also be well presented for the actual viewing itself. Now, we wouldn’t suggest that you go to the extreme lengths of brewing coffee or baking bread!

However the following tips will help you to present your property in its best light for viewings:

Increase the kerb appeal of your property – keep the front garden tidy, trim any lawns, weed the flowerbeds and clean patio areas, paths and driveways. Maybe consider adding some pot plants or hanging baskets – these will introduce a splash of colour and make your home more attractive.

Vacuum the carpets and dust every room – make the beds, clean the kitchen and bathroom properly. A clean kitchen and bathroom is very appealing to most buyers.

Clean the windows inside and out – including the frames.

Pay attention to the decor – repair any minor damage such as peeling wallpaper and chipped paintwork. A quick fix will prevent a prospective buyer from having their attention drawn to minor damage.

Make sure all lightbulbs are working – and repair any dripping taps. Basic things, but buyers will notice them if you don’t fix them.

De-clutter – create a feeling of space by clearing away items such as shoes, coats, bags, children’s toys and any general clutter before a viewing.

Put washing away – don’t leave all your damp washing drying on a clothes airer when potential buyers are viewing your property.

Keep pets under control – or maybe arrange for pets to be out of the house. Some buyers will be nervous of animals and this could have an adverse affect on their impression of your property.

Create a homely feel – open curtains, turn on table lamps and soft lighting, put the heating on if it’s cold outside, make your property feel ‘homely’ and lived in.

Televisions can be a distraction when they are on – turn them off for viewings. However music playing quietly in the background can increase the feeling of ‘homeliness’.

Where possible, try to go out and leave the property empty for the viewing – one of our experienced Sales Negotiators will always accompany the viewing, but if you and your family are also in the property it will feel more crowded. Buyers often feel more like intruders if you are in the property, and will avoid talking openly about any concerns they may have, concerns that can often be overcome by our experienced Sales Negotiators.