Preparing your home for sale

There are no second chances to make a first impression!

 To ensure you maximize the price you achieve with Real Estate & Property it is important to take the time to prepare for sale to ensure your home is as attractive as possible to potential purchasers.

 Exterior

 The exterior of the house and the front garden are the first things potential purchasers will see when they arrive—and it gives them an indication of the quality and presentation of the interior. There are small things you can do that can add to the ‘street appeal’:

• Paint any exterior surfaces of the house (if necessary)
• Repair and paint (if necessary) any fencing/gates/letterbox
• Pressure clean driveways and paving to remove any oil stains etc
• Remove cobwebs from all surfaces
• Clean windows and screens
• Mow the lawns, prune any shrubs and remove all weeds
• Plant flowering annuals and shrubs in garden beds or, in pots near the house.
• Purchase fresh mulch for garden beds shortly before your first open inspection

 Interior:

 Before undergoing any major renovations, discuss it with your agent to find out is such renovations will add to the  financial return at the time of sale.

 Many low cost projects to enhance the appearance of your home include:

•  It is important to de-clutter by sorting and removing any excess items such as furniture, toys etc.
• Paint walls, ceilings and woodwork (if necessary) but choose neutral tones as potential purchasers will have their own ideas regarding colour choice.
• if painting is not necessary, clean walls, particularly in high traffic areas
• undertake a thorough 'spring' clean of all areas of the house paying particular attention to the kitchen and bathroom/s including exhaust fans
• clean curtains and/or blinds
• clean windows
• clean light fittings and/or purchase new fittings to cover any bare globes
• have carpets professionally cleaned to remove any stains and odours

When you have completed what you think is necessary, it can be helpful to get an opinion from an independent source e.g. a friend or neighbour, to ensure you have done enough to prepare for sale.