Published: 05/01/2020 By Beth Colman
The start of a new year is synonymous with new beginnings, and if you’re looking to sell up in 2020 now is the perfect time to start preparing. While interest picks up after the Christmas lull, take some time to implement these straightforward fixes that could make all the difference to your future sale.
1. First Impressions Count
Research suggests that buyers make their mind up about a property within the first 30 seconds, and sometimes before they’ve even set foot inside! While sprucing up the interior is an absolute must, don’t forget about the exterior of your home. Be sure to sweep your path and get rid of any weeds, and store your bins out of sight if possible.2. Time to Declutter
Stacks of magazines and untold numbers of knick knacks all detract from the feel of your home, not to mention make it look smaller. Sort through each room deciding what needs to be binned or recycled and what can be taken to the charity shop. As a general rule, if you haven’t used something in the last year, you’re unlikely to be using it again! Encouraging buyers and lightening the load of your future move, decluttering is a great first step in getting your house ready for sale.
For household items that make the cut, ensure that as much as possible is tidied away out of sight. The more of a blank canvas your house appears, the more the potential buyer will be able to imagine their own belongings inside.
3. Smells that Sell
Scents can completely change the impression of a property, and are an easy way to create a relaxed and homely atmosphere. Citrus and fresh laundry smells top the list of viewer’s favourites and are easily achieved with a simple reed diffuser. You want the smell to be noticable but certainly not overpowering, so try just one in the living room and one in a bedroom to start with. It may be one of the oldest tricks in the book, but brewing a fresh pot of coffee just before a viewing is another way to create a warm and cosy feel.
Just as good smells can change the ambience of a property, bad smells like smoke or wet dog are enough to drive a buyer away. It can be hard to recognise scents we are surrounded by every day, so ask an honest friend or neighbour to take a walk around and tell you if they smell anything unseemly.
4. Space and Light
Great lighting can add perceived value to your home by creating the illusion of space. Painting walls a neutral off-white will give your rooms an instant lift, but if you don’t have the time to redecorate there are other small fixes that can really make a difference. Try replacing any heavy curtains with blinds and replacing light fixtures with high-voltage bulbs. Well-placed mirrors can increase the overall sense of light, and are great for opening up smaller areas like hallways
If you are thinking about selling your home this year, give Colman and Co a call on 01494 871991 for a free valuation with no obligation. We are the specialist agent for Chalfont Giles and the surrounding area, with over 40 years experience.