So you have decided that you are going to take the plunge and put your house on the market for sale but have you taken a good look around your home to ensure it is ready for potential buyers to set foot through the door? Franca Carbone at Philip James Estate agents advises on a few simple steps to take to ensure that your property is presented to its full potential and discusses how important the photographs used in the marketing are key to generating more viewings.
Marketing your property for sale usually requires preparation. All those clichés about first impressions are nothing but true. Franca agrees that “You only have one opportunity to create a good first (and lasting) impression” and there are a few things that you can do to ensure that you maximise your property’s potential.
The quality & standard of our marketing and photos is very high says Franca who manages sales within Denton and Audenshaw areas. If the photo’s aren’t up to scratch then the number of viewings may be reduced which means you may not get the best possible price for your property. Below are some examples of properties marketed by Philip James Wilson and comparisons between their photos and those of other agents which highlights how different a room can look.
“This does not mean that you should go out and re-decorate your whole house, chances are that it wouldn’t be to the new buyer’s taste anyway but there are a few simple steps you can take that will make all the difference”
De-clutter– Get rid of excessive ornaments and knick knacks, stuff that you have accumulated in every nook and cranny but rarely use, put things that are not regularly used in the loft or garage, if it’s a large piece of furniture, then it could be an idea to put it into storage. Remove things that live on the kitchen worktop that look untidy and take up space. The hallway is the first part of the house that a potential buyer will see, clear away coats and shoes and ensure it looks inviting.
Repairs– There are always minor repairs in the home that we just don’t seem to get round to doing. Now is the time to get them done! Repairs holes in walls, broken door knobs , that kitchen cupboard that has been hanging off for months. Not only will it look better for buyers looking around your home but you’ll feel happier that it’s finally been done.
Clean– This means not just giving the property a quick once over but dusting skirting boards, removing cobwebs, polishing mirrors & cupboards doors, cleaning windows. Replacing old grouting in the bathroom and blackened seals around the bath.
Smells– Bad smells are a big turn off. Deodorise the property to remove stale smells of last night’s dinner, cigarettes or pet smells. Clear drains, wash bins and open windows to let in fresh air. Good smells are welcoming, you may not have time to bake bread and make fresh coffee but plug- ins and scented candles can work wonders.
Exterior– The outside of the property is the first thing people see and tends to be the part of the house that sellers concentrate the least on. Many people will also have a drive past the property before deciding whether or not to view so ensure that your property has great kerb appeal. Take a look at the front garden- does it look tidy & inviting? Mow the lawn and tidy up bushes and plant, does the front door or fencing look tired? then brighten it up with a lick of paint. Hanging baskets and bedding plants if you have a garden add colour. Remove bins and anything else that looks unsightly.
Pets– If you do have pets, ask a relative or friend to look after them while viewings are taking place. While you love your furry friend, chances are your buyer won’t – or worse still, they may be allergic. Hide litter trays and food bowls
Once your home is ready to be placed on the market it is critical that you pick an agent that is going to market your property in a way that shows off your property and all the effort you have put into it to it’s best potential. The photography and marketing of your chosen estate agent is critical in ensuring that people are attracted to your property and want to book a viewing. The quality of the photos that can be the difference between a buyer choosing to view your house or not!
If you are looking to sell your property contact us now for a free market appraisal.
