Thinking of selling your London home? Narendra Gandhi of Winkworth in Ealing provides some top tips and advice on maximising value in the current climate.
It’s said to be a sellers’ market at the moment. A lack of stock is holding prospective purchasers back, and the best properties are going for way over asking prices in sealed bids. But the pandemic has changed what buyers want from their home, creating a new list of desired qualities. Properties that may have ticked all the boxes in 2019 are no longer necessarily flying off the shelves. Flats without gardens, for example, can prove hard to sell, while space for working has become a new must-have. So what can you do to make sure that your home sells at a premium? We asked Narendra Gandhi of Winkworth in Ealing for his top tips for sellers.
1. The pandemic has created a penchant for outside space, no matter how small, so make your garden look as inviting as possible. If it’s less than impressively sized, it needs to look practical by perhaps placing a table and chairs at the very least – remember: you are selling a lifestyle. This cottage has a walled garden that may be small but it’s beautifully styled as a cosy outdoor room with a garden sofa and rug – its appeal is definitely maximised.
2. Another effect of the pandemic has been the need to work from home, and it’s common for buyers to be motivated to move if a couple are both working from home. If you’re lacking outside space, it makes sense to focus on offering flexible living space and creating a study area if possible. Put a desk in an alcove, landing or any unused space that’s potentially secluded. This stylish apartment, for example, has a beautiful mezzanine-level office with views over the living area and this conversion has an appealing landing desk. Properties with larger gardens would certainly benefit from an office/studio – these have become real selling points.
3. Always de-clutter! This is imperative. Even if it means putting some of your belongings into storage. You are aiming for clear, empty surfaces and an aspirational feel. Nobody falls in love with a property that feels cramped and messy. This one-bedroom flat maximises its space with an airy, clutter-free vibe.
4. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that it’s always advisable to enlarge your home with a view to selling. Everyone has different priorities and some buyers may prefer more outside space over internal accommodation, while others prefer to buy a property with the potential to make improvements to their own liking. Reducing the size of the garden to create a vast kitchen might not be everyone’s priority and many people like to take on an entire renovation project. This house is well-presented, with its potential for a loft conversion highlighted.
5. Always keep original features intact. Never rip out fireplaces or other period characteristics in an old property. London’s Victorian and Edwardian stock are perennially popular for their charming period details, many of which were stripped out in the 1980s. Maintain original tiles, cornicing and even door handles for maximum buyer appeal.