NAEA Propertymark’s top tips for selling your house in spring
The start of a new season is only a couple of weeks away, so NAEA Propertmark has shared its tips on the best way to sell your house in spring.
At this time of year there is an opportunity for a new beginning, so why not embrace it? As we move into the new season, house buyers are beginning to wake from their winter hibernation and once again continue their search. Therefore, these top tips for selling your house in spring will help to prepare your home and present it in the best light to boost its saleability.
1. First impressions are everything
Every detail is important, as buyers often make their decision within seconds of arriving at a property. Make sure it looks its best on the outside as well as the inside.
If your front door is looking a little shabby, buy a new doorknob, a brass letterbox or a stainless-steel house number; these small touches can instantly make your home feel more welcoming.
2. Spring Cleaning
It goes without saying that a spring clean is essential before a seasonal sale. You don’t want to put a buyer off with a grubby and messy appearance. This needs to be the fresh start that they’ve been looking for!
Give old carpets a deep clean and thoroughly clean all curtains or upholstery that attracts extra dust. It’s a good idea to deep clean all carpets before putting your house on the market as well to ensure the whole house feels clean and fresh.
Just Landlords’ spring cleaning checklist makes for a handy tool for house sellers as well as tenants and landlords.
3. Freshen up your kitchen and bathroom
Kitchens and bathrooms can make or break a sale so now is the time to give them a makeover. Think about hiding any unappealing pipework and fixing worn or broken tiles. You may still be living there, but keep clutter to a minimum when it comes to toiletries out on the side. In the kitchen, replace any worn work surfaces and doors as this will totally transform the space without having to fork out on replacing the cabinets.
4. Let there be light
A dark room is an immediate turn-off to buyers. The easiest first step is to let the sun pour in and maximise natural light as much as possible by opening curtains and blinds and giving any dirty windows a scrub before putting your property on the market.
5. Keep decoration minimal
Interior décor comes down to personal taste, so don’t go over the top. Potential buyers must be able to picture themselves living in the space, and not feel like an intruder in someone else’s home. Anything showing too much personality can be a turn off during a house viewing so it’s best to keep your decoration simple and colours neutral to offer buyers a blank slate to build their own home on.
6. Flowers
Keeping fresh flowers on display is a welcoming touch that will make your home appear well kept. Flowers can play a vital role in giving rooms a lift and create a clean fragrance to greet a buyer. No matter how well your home is presented, a few simple touches with some neutral flowers will enhance the property’s appeal.
7. Pets
Furry friends leave an odour that pet owners can become immune to over time, but it’s likely the buyer will pick up on this. Air out the property in advance of any viewings, light a freshly scented candle to mask any lingering smells (but don’t leave it unattended!) and consider leaving your pet with a friend or family member for the duration.
Lauren Scott, President, NAEA Propertymark comments: “With housing market activity on the rise during February and March, it’s important to take every step to make your property stand out above the competition. If you are looking to sell your home this spring, turn to your local NAEA Propertymark estate agent who will be able to offer you further guidance on how to maximise the chances of a spring sale.”