If you’re planning to sell up this year, now’s the time to act.
The spring market is traditionally the busiest time of year for the property industry, and the advent of longer days, milder temperatures and spring flowers bring with them a renewed interest in buying and selling houses. So, to make sure that you’re ready to market your property to all those eager spring buyers, start the process now. Here’s what to do.
First off, you need to get your house in order. It needs to be looking its best in your agent’s photographs, so start with a spring clean and a cosmetic overhaul. Finish any abandoned DIY projects you may have on the go, and make sure that everything is in working order. Clean the windows, consider painting the front door, and tidy up the garden.
Invite an estate agent to come and give a valuation. In fact, invite three different agents and don’t be surprised if their valuations vary quite significantly. It’s important not to just be seduced by the highest valuation – it may not be entirely realistic. Do your own research: how much have properties in your street sold for recently and how does yours compare? Choose an agent who knows your area and who is suggesting an asking price that you’re happy with.
The first thing they’ll do is take pictures. Before the photographer comes, declutter. You want to present your home at its best – and that means it shouldn’t feel overly full of things. Get rid of old toys, put all the shoes away and ensure that everything is in the right place, and that at least some surfaces are empty. Drawers and wardrobes should be closed, books should be on shelves. If you have suitcases stacked on top of wardrobes, hide them – even in your car if necessary. Put the loo seats down and don’t have lots of tatty products on show in the bathroom. Place a vase of flowers on the table.
Make sure your agent understands your position. Are you in a hurry to sell or can you wait? Are you looking for an onward purchase, and if so, can the same agent help? If you’re hoping to buy and sell at once, you’ll need to have your finances in order and be ready to make an offer on a purchase as soon as you have accepted an offer from a buyer. Things can move quite quickly and you don’t want to be the cause of any delays to your chain.
Maintaining levels of tidiness that you might not be used to while your home is on the market can be exhausting, but it’s important that you do. Agents can arrange viewings at short notice or even no notice, so even if nothing is booked in, it’s worth leaving the place spotless when you leave for work in the morning in case the agent brings a prospective buyer round when you’re out. Always ask for feedback after viewings – and remember that the average property attracts about 10 viewings before a sale is agreed. Good luck!
