First impressions count so increasing the initial appeal of your property is paramount in attracting potential buyers. Taking the time to prepare your property for sale can directly affect the number of interest buyers, the speed of the sale, and the price you achieve.
Here are the key points for you to focus on, to help maximise your buyer appeal:
Make a great first impression
Ensure that your property number is clearly visible from the street and trim any branches that may obstruct its view. If you have a light outside, make sure that the bulb is functioning properly so that you can turn it on at night.
Sweep the pathway outside the front of your property and ensure that your on street planter or grass verge is neat and weed free. Trim any shrubs and bushes, mow the lawn, and remove any dead or dying plants to keep your garden looking its best. Adding some seasonal flowering plants can also add a pop of colour to your front garden.
Look at your fence, letterbox, and front door, and make sure they are clean and free of dirt and cobwebs. If they are looking worn, consider giving them a fresh coat of paint.
During the marketing campaign, make sure that the outdoor lights are bright and in good working order. Clean all your windows and remove any cobwebs to ensure that your property looks well maintained and attractive to potential buyers. Make sure to store your garbage bins out of sight, as the sight and smell of trash can be off-putting to potential buyers.
Ensure your property is sparkling clean
Take the time to thoroughly clean and dust every surface in each room. Ensure that your windows and window frames are sparkling clean and vacuum and mop the floors to give your property a fresh, clean look. Do not forget to dust the walls and remove any cobwebs that may be lurking in high corners or ceilings. Check for any stains, mould or animal hair.
Buyers often look inside cupboards and cabinets, so be sure to clean and organize them inside and out to make a good impression.
Fix the obvious issues
Be sure to address any issues that may be present in your home before putting it up for sale. Replace any chipped or broken tiles and re-grout if needed, and repair any leaky pipes, including downpipes.
Cover and patch any holes in your walls, and repair any doors that do not swing easily by applying WD-40 to the hinges or making minor adjustments.
Replace any cracked mirrors or glass, and ensure that your front gate opens properly. Replace any dim light bulbs and make sure that all lighting fixtures are in good working order.
It is important to keep in mind that some of these issues may require the expertise of professional tradespeople, so be sure to allow enough time between planning your home for sale and your open home campaign to address them.
Depersonalise and De-Clutter
To create a more neutral space, it is best to remove any family photos and personal items. Instead, keep only a few ornaments on display to give the property a lived in feel. Arrange these items neatly on tables, shelves, and in the bathroom in small groups.
Maximize the space in each room by arranging the furniture thoughtfully. Ensure that beds are made neatly with crisp linens, think hospital corners and arrange rugs nicely to create a welcoming and comfortable feel.
If you are unsure about how to style your home for sale, consider talking to your Peter Markovic Agent about hiring a home stylist for expert guidance.
Allow in Light and Air
Prior to the inspection, open all shutters, blinds, and curtains to allow natural light to flow in and make your home feel bright and airy. For added freshness, be sure to air out your home for at least an hour before the inspection.
If heavy drapes or blinds are blocking natural light, consider removing them to create a brighter and more welcoming feel to potential buyers.
Style your kitchen
To create the feeling of space in your kitchen, clear away any unnecessary clutter from your countertops. Only leave a few nice appliances on display to add a touch of style to the space. Wipe down all benchtops to give them a clean and fresh appearance, and make sure that the hot plate, oven, and microwave are spotlessly clean. Remove everything from the fridge door and give it a wipe down to remove any smudges or fingerprints.
To add a burst of colour and freshness to your kitchen, consider placing a vase of flowers or a bowl of fresh fruit on the benchtop. This will create an inviting and homely feel to the space for potential buyers.
Lux up your bathroom
To create a luxurious and inviting bathroom, make sure that the space is sparkling clean including the grout. Remove any clutter from the top of the vanity to create a neat and tidy appearance.
Consider adding some luxury items such as fresh, plump towels, handmade soaps, a candle, a plant or fresh flowers, and some boutique bath products. These items will create a spa-like atmosphere and give the bathroom a touch of indulgence.
Remember to wipe down the shower screen after each use to remove any soap scum on the walls and glass doors. This will help keep the bathroom looking clean and fresh for potential buyers.
Seeking professional legal advice
Selling a property can be a complex process, which is why it is important to engage the services of a solicitor or conveyancer to assist with the sale.
They will help check and draw up contracts and other necessary documents, so that you can be sure everything is legally correct.
The Day of Sale
If you accept a buyer’s offer, you will sign a contract of sale. If the buyer has subject to finance (sometimes in a private sale scenario), then when finance is approved, the deal will go unconditional.
In regards to an auction, the contract becomes unconditional three business days before, on the day of, and three business days after the auction. During this time, the three clear business days cooling off period for the buyer does not apply.
Post-settlement and moving
Your conveyancer or solicitor you choose will help ensure that your mortgage is discharged, and the land title is correctly transferred at settlement. The contract of sale will specify the date on which you must vacate the property and allow the buyer to take possession. On the settlement day, you will need to hand over all keys, fobs, and swipes for the property to the buyer.
Before the settlement date, it is important to:
- Booking a moving company
- Pack up your belongings
- Redirect your mail to your new address
- Notify your internet, gas and power companies of your move.
- Make arrangements to move into your new home.