What do people overlook when preparing for a viewing?
Buyers want to be able to see themselves in the house, and they can’t if your personality is stamped all over it. Depersonalise the space by clearing away pictures, posters and ornaments.
Should we be having a full Marie Kondo-style clear out?
Yes – in particular, make sure hallways and kitchen surfaces are free from clutter to create a good impression. Buyers also open cupboards to check how much storage is available, so make sure they aren’t bursting at the seams. Declutter by putting anything you don’t need daily into storage or the attic, and any bulky furniture should also go into storage to make rooms look bigger.
Is it madness to try to sell with everything that’s going on in politics at the moment?
Even with uncertainty about Brexit , people still need to buy and sell because they are still having kids, getting married or divorced, and moving jobs. But there are certain times of year when prices are at the most buoyant – February and September are the best times to sell as demand outstrips supply.
What’s the cheapest way to make a good first impression on potential buyers?
Make your house as light as possible by taking down heavy curtains, replacing light bulbs and making sure windows are sparkling. Everything needs to be spotless too – clean up with an eagle eye, or get a cleaner in before viewings.
Are there simple ways to make a big difference without doing a full refurbishment?
Spruce up the place with a coat of neutral paint and new flooring, if you can afford it. Retiling the bathroom is a good idea, but if you can’t stretch to that, re-grouting can really freshen things up. New doors on kitchen cabinets can make a world of difference and needn’t be expensive.
Ultimate house-selling tip?
Target your home towards the market you think may be interested, without alienating other groups. If it’s a house that might appeal to a professional couple, a second bedroom could work as an office, but for a family home, make sure it looks like somewhere you can bring up kids.
Ideal Home Show, the world’s longest running exhibition, will return to Olympia London until Sunday 7 April 2019. Phil Spencer is hosting property talks on stage at the show. Find out more at idealhomeshow.co.uk .
