In a tight market it’s important to do everything you can to make your home stand out from the rest. Before the advertising photo’s are taken and the home is opened for inspection you should follow these five tips.

Firstly you should undertake basic maintenance, oil squeaking doors, make sure the doorbell works and the doormat is clean and in position. Repair dripping taps and remove stains from bath and basins. Fix loose or broken tiles and clean kitchen and bathroom tiles.

Secondly, make the home as light as possible, raise blinds and open curtains. Clean bathrooms, light fittings, install bright low energy bulbs, and fix light switches. Clean marks off the walls. Arrange the furniture to make the rooms look big and easy to walk in, but don’t do this at the last moment.

Thirdly, spruce up the bedrooms, use your best bed covers and put cushions and soft toys on the children’s beds. It is very important to lock away valuables and personal items or take them with you during an open for inspection.

Fourthly, place fresh flowers around the house along with plants on the veranda as it helps make the house look inviting.

Finally, it is important to ‘de-clutter’ your house. Removing excess furniture is a great way of allowing prospective purchasers to imagine the home with their furniture in it. De-cluttering your home can take some time so it is important to start well before your agent opens the door for the first open house.

For more advise on marketing your property please contact us.