How to make your home attractive to buyers
There are simple ways to make your home attractive to buyers and to add value when selling. Remember that first impressions count so you need buyers to be impressed from the moment they lay eyes on the house to everywhere inside.
Street Appeal
1. Front lawn and garden
Keep your lawn mowed and any landscaping in well kept. A well maintained lawn shows pride in ownership and that the house has been looked after with care. Studies have shown that when the landscaping of a home is in excellent condition, it can sell for approximately four to five per cent higher, while homes on the other end of the spectrum can sell for eight to 10 per cent less.
2. Repairs and maintenance
Fix any problems such as reticulation, loose fencing, broken or out of place tiles, safety hazards and clean up anything unsightly such as spider webs.
3. Touch up with a bit of paint
If the colour has faded on the front of your house or veranda bring it back to life with a coat of paint. It can make a huge difference and help the property stand out from your neighbours.
4. House number
Put in place visible house numbers to make it easy for buyers to locate you. You want them to be in the best mood possible and it is difficult to sell if they cannot find the home.
5. Entrance
The entry should be as inviting as possible. The pathway, front door and gate should all be clean and in top condition. Buy a brand new doormat to signal you take pride in looking after the place. Also it’s a good idea to install outdoor lights to keep the front porch well lit as many buyers will drive past after work to check if it’s worth inspecting
Inside
1. Painting colours
Space is one of the most important features buyers value in a house. Using the right colours can change the way the inside is seen. To make your room appear more spacious paint the ceiling a lighter colour than the walls. Also as a general rule the flooring should be darker than the walls.
2. Less is more
Remove clutter to appear more spacious. By clearing all countertops and removing any unnecessary furniture it will look like there is more room available. Try and make it look like a comfortable, expensive hotel suite that appears like no one else has been there yet or touched anything.
3. Smell
Smells can have a big impact on the mood of a person so ensure you house smells pleasant and gives off a warm feeling . Use scented candles, spray or product to create a welcome environment. Clean the carpet, vents and empty the bins to clear any nasty odours
4. Clean
A neat and tidy bathroom and kitchen goes a long way. Make sure there is no mould or dirty, used soap bars because they buyer may struggle to visualise themselves using it everyday which may be an instant turn off.
5. Nothing outrageous
Remove any art or features that may divide opinion. These can quickly turn a buyer off a purchase so it is best to be conservative.