Selling a house often feels like a laborious journey, with homeowners eagerly awaiting the day they can relinquish their keys and step into their next dream home.
While it may seem like an uncontrollable process, there are indeed strategies you can implement to expedite your home sale. The goal is to help potential buyers envision themselves living in your home. Here’s a rundown of some proven tips to consider.
Setting a sensible initial asking price
Beware the lure of an estate agent presenting you with an overly ambitious valuation. An inflated price tag can deter potential buyers, who can easily compare it with other properties on their radar. Overpricing your home often leads to subsequent price reductions, which can raise red flags for buyers, prompting queries like ‘Why has the price dropped? What’s the catch?’
Boosting your home’s kerb appeal
The term ‘kerb appeal’ is about the first impression a potential buyer gets when viewing your home from the street. Simple enhancements can significantly boost your property’s kerb appeal. Ensure your windows are clean and well-maintained, your roof is in good condition with no missing tiles, and your pathway is clear and accessible.
If you have a garden, keep it tidy and free from dead leaves, weeds and litter, and conceal your wheelie bins from view. Trim any overgrown hedges and ensure fences and walls are in good repair. A fresh coat of paint can work wonders.
Tackling quick wins around your home
Small issues can be a big deterrent for potential buyers. Addressing these minor tasks can make your property more appealing and increase your chances of securing a sale. These quick wins could include descaling the shower screen, replacing broken lightbulbs and cleaning the carpets.
Identifying and targeting likely buyers
Consider the unique features of your property and its location to determine who might be your ideal buyer. Could it be a young family, a single professional or perhaps a retired couple? Once you’ve identified your target audience, highlight the property features and nearby amenities that would appeal to them in your listing, during discussions with your estate agent and when conducting viewings.
Helping buyers visualise their life in your home
The goal is to help potential buyers envision themselves living in your home.
Neutral tones are the key to a buyer-friendly canvas
Redecorating your home with a neutral colour scheme can be a game-changer when it comes to attracting potential buyers. While a deep red feature wall may suit your style, it could deter those who can’t visualise their décor ideas within your space. A fresh coat of paint in shades of cream, off-white or subtle hues can help prospective buyers see the potential for their own style to shine through.
Decluttering and depersonalising to create an inviting atmosphere
While it’s essential to maintain a sense of warmth and homeliness, too much clutter or personal memorabilia can make it difficult for buyers to imagine themselves in your space. By decluttering and removing personal photos, you create a comfortable, cosy, yet versatile environment where anyone could feel at home.
Simple additions for big impact and a homely touch
Adding simple touches like curtains, plants and fresh fruit can significantly enhance the homely feel of your property. Mirrors and lamps, particularly in smaller or darker spaces, can bring light and create an illusion of space. These small additions can make a property feel more inviting, helping potential buyers envision themselves living there.
From off-putting to inviting – scent matters
Never underestimate the power of scent. If your property has any sources of bad smells, it’s crucial to address them at the source rather than merely masking them. From clearing outside drains and thoroughly cleaning kitchens and bins to removing tobacco odour from fabrics, every effort counts. And remember, a pleasant scent, such as fresh coffee or baked goods, can be incredibly inviting.
Preparation is everything, so secure a solicitor early on
Securing a solicitor before finding a buyer might seem unusual, but it can save you a few weeks in the sales process. With a solicitor already in place, you’ll be ready to handle the necessary paperwork promptly once a buyer is found.
Boost and enhance your listing with photos and highlight features
If your property listing isn’t attracting much interest, it might be time to revamp it. This could mean highlighting unique features, enhancing the quality and quantity of photos, or even hiring a professional photographer. A skilled photographer can optimise lighting, arrange furniture effectively and capture your home’s best features, making your property more appealing to online buyers.
Ready to take the next step towards your new home?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to remortgage, we’ll help you make sense of your options. From reviewing your credit and understanding your budget to comparing rates from different lenders, we’ll answer your questions and help you make informed decisions. To learn more, speak to the team.
Please note: a mortgage is secured against your home or property. Your home or property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
