As the housing market starts to get back off the ground with the easing of lockdown, families whose moving plans have been put on hold for months are now re-thinking their options.
Like everywhere, houses in and around Newcastle are set to get to moving again with potential buyers keen to see what's on offer.
And, with video platforms such as Zoom having proved such a lockdown hit in keeping people connected, one online site is suggesting that virtual viewings are the way forward.
This risk-free method of looking around a property on the market is becoming increasingly popular as both sellers and buyers try to negotiate their way around social distancing measures.
So online company Sellhousefast.uk has come up with a number of tips for sellers on how to show off their home at its best.
Video tour
Making a look-around video of the house, with an audio description, is an ideal way to allow potential buyers to experience a viewing without a visit - but make sure the video is good quality and the camera work is professional-looking.
Zoom call
Setting up a Zoom meeting with prospective buyers means they can ask questions about the house, learn more about it and get a feel for it.
Showing off
Lighting can be key so make sure your home is seen at its prime, planning your video tour or video call when it's illuminated to best effect.
Little details
Upload clear and detailed photographs capturing everything that would be noticed on a normal viewing. Don't forget about any interesting or unusual features which you might be used to but a fresh pair of eyes would pick up.
Be honest
Share any flaws too. When potential buyers aren't able to make an inspection for themselves they might be a bit suspicious of possible cover-ups. Revealing any not-so-great bits will show you're trustworthy.
General viewing tips
De-clutter
Room by room, remove what's unnecessary and let viewers have a clear sight of the space and lines of the room.
Welcome aroma
For viewings in person, open a window in each room an hour before the potential buyer arrives in order to air the property and rid it of any cooking smells. And a scented candle or diffuser can work wonders on the senses.
Light it up
Again, don't forget lighting. Even if you prefer dimly-lit rooms these probably won't look inviting. The likes of a LED table or floor lamp will properly illuminate a room's main features while extra lamps can light up additional areas and add a cosy glow, even in a kitchen.
Small jobs
Consider re-painting walls if they have lots of marks or cracks; varnish tired skirting boards and fix any door handles or locks if needed as these might seem minor but can be niggling irritations.
Garden
If you have a garden, no matter how small, ensure it is a help not a hindrance to your selling plans. Look it over with a critical eye to imagine how it might appear to someone new. If the grass is long, mow it; remove weeds and trim overgrown plants. Use a pressure-washer if the paving is dirty and wipe clean any garden furniture.
Finishing touches
Before a scheduled viewing, turn your heating on if it's a chilly or damp day. Set out clean towels in the bathroom; empty all bins; tidy the beds and spray each room with air freshener.
