Six of the best… tips for selling this spring
The first day of spring has finally arrived, a time when the market traditionally picks up again. Gardens are coming out in bloom, the sun is shining and a wave of potential buyers are looking for properties they can make their own. To ensure plenty of viewings and the best possible price, spring into action and make your home stand out from the crowd with our six top tips for selling this spring.
How to prepare your home for the sales market:
1. Kerb appeal
You only get one chance to make a good first impression, and photographs are the first thing that potential buyers will see on a property portal, website or brochure. This is the moment they initially judge your home and consider whether it’s worth a visit to view it.
As a potential buyer approaches your property for the first time, make sure the front of the house and garden are presentable and well maintained. Pay attention to the front door, window frames and garden – freshly cut grass looks great. A fresh coat of paint or pretty potted plant could also add further appeal to your front door.
2. Keep it clean
With the sun streaming through the windows, ensure they are clean inside and out, de-clutter and keep surfaces clear. Remember, kitchens and bathrooms can help sell homes so keep them looking spotless. If you have pets, keep floors clean, windows open and finally, ensure every room is easily accessible.
3. Define the space
Make sure each room is clearly defined by highlighting the purpose – you may be using your dining room as a makeshift office, living room as a playroom or spare room as a laundry (which is fine) but potential buyers may be left thinking your property lacks space or storage facilities.
4. Minor repairs
If it’s broken, fix it! Everything inside and outside the property should be in good working order. For example, fix leaky taps and cupboard doors that you have been meaning to address for some time. Fencing and gates should be in good order. Replace low-wattage light bulbs so on gloomier days, buyers can see your home in its best light!
5. Decorate
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on this, but a coat of paint here and there can have a significant impact on appearance. New carpet, bathroom flooring, blinds or curtains can also be an effective way to update a property.
6. Get organised
Like most things these days, there is paperwork involved in the process of moving house. Below we have compiled a list of documents that will be requested from you during the conveyancing process:
⦁ Proof of identity – Photo ID and a utility bill or bank statement
⦁ Management Information Pack – if selling a leasehold property
⦁ Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – they are valid for 10 years so if you recently purchased the property or had work carried out, you may have one which is valid
⦁ Title Deeds – if you do not have a copy, they can be obtained from HM Land Registry
⦁ Electrical & Gas Certificates – proof that boilers have been serviced regularly and any electrical work has been tested and meets building regs.
⦁ Extension and/or alterations documents – if you have made any alterations to add value to your property you will be required to show documentation that the legal requirements were adhered to and planning permission obtained, if required.
⦁ Warranties – should you be leaving any appliances etc. that are still covered
Once you have made the decision to sell, the next step is to choose the right estate agent who can give you expert advice on pricing and marketing strategy.
Base your choice of agent on their professionalism, local knowledge, marketing clout and whether you like them – after all, you will be entrusting the agency you choose with the sale of what is likely to be your most valuable asset.
It is not wise to choose an estate agent based on how low they are prepared to discount their fees or be tempted by suggestions that you could ask a much higher price for your home – only to reduce it further down the line. You need the price to be right first time and you want to make sure your property is being marketed to the widest possible audience. Most importantly, you need to be confident that the agent you choose will always work in your best interests to see the sale through to completion, that they will negotiate skilfully on your behalf and achieve the best possible price.
Finally, it is always a good idea to check for accreditations and memberships of organisations such as NAEA, RICS and the Property Ombudsman – and remember to ask others what they think about local estate agents or check the agents’ websites, Yell or Google for genuine customer reviews.
Remember, once you have chosen your agent you want your home to look its best. That way you maximise your chances of getting more viewings, the best price and a timely sale. Good luck!