If you’re in the market to sell your home for the best price possible, then there are 3 magic words you should know which could add many thousands of dollars to your sale price. They are Presentation, Presentation, Presentation, and that means both the inside and outside. This is because when it comes to selling your home, first impressions really do count. So why not maximise your opportunity to create a positive and lasting impression on prospective buyers by paying attention to your home’s presentation… you’ll be glad you did in this competitive market.

Presenting Your Home Check List

Since first impressions do count, it’s wise to start with the curb side street appeal of your property. Which means creating an impression of a well-cared for home and garden is essential. In fact, the first glimpse of an attractive and visually appealing front garden will have a positive overall effect on visitors and create increased interest within buyers.

The Exterior

• Give the exterior of your home a quick cosmetic makeover and facelift. Do this by repairing or painting any part of the house which is looking tired or run down. Pay attention to gutters, downpipes, roof, verandas, steps, doors and windows.
• Replace any rotting timber, loose deck boards, steps and doorknobs.
• Clean the outside of the house including the windows and frames. Because sparkling windows are like bright eyes; they are inviting and show a well maintained home.

Lead up to the House

• Keep paths swept clean of leaves, grass and weeds and check this on Home Open day.
• Clean or paint the gate and letterbox and shine your street numbers if applicable.
• Pay attention to any creepers and branches over-hanging roof, gutters and walkways as these should be pruned back.

Your Lawns and Garden

• Start garden improvements as soon as a decision is made to put the home on the market and ensure trees, bushes, hedges and shrubs look green and healthy
• Lawn fertiliser can be applied to green up the lawns
• Keep lawn edges neatly mown and under trees and fences tidy

General

• Rake up leaves and other garden debris
• Roll up your garden hoses and put them away. Also store other garden tools and rubbish bins out of sight in storage areas
• Kid’s swings and sandpits can give a warm family feeling, however be sure to put away any loose children’s toys and keep these neat and tidy

Pools

A pool can be a great asset for those looking for a home with entertainment and recreational facilities. Owners should ensure that the pool has been cleaned, vacuumed and is free of leaves, on the top as well as the bottom of the pool. Be sure to scrub the tiles around the pool’s edge and store away any pool equipment such as creepy crawlies, hoses and pool covers. Attractive outdoor furniture and shady areas should be displayed to present an attractive, relaxing environment.

The Interior

The key to an inviting interior is creating a welcoming feel to the home. Presenting a tidy yet lived in home, with plenty of fresh air, light and space will do wonders for its appeal.

• Start with the walls and ceiling. Often all that’s required is a good wash, however if this does not remove all stains, especially those left by water leaks and grubby fingers, then the walls will require painting. Light or neutral tones are usually best.
• The door and window frames should also be cleaned and painted where necessary.
• Make sure all lights work and check the strength of your globes to ensure a warm yet bright light in living areas. Use more white light tones for work areas such as the study or kitchen.
• The kitchen is one of the main areas a buyer will be interested in. Make sure all surfaces are clean and clear of clutter and that the electrical equipment being sold with the house is spotless and in good working condition.
• The bathroom is another important area of the home and should be both spotless and hygienically clean. The floor and wall tiles must shine and be free of mildew. It may be a good idea to replace the shower curtain, toilet seat and towels. White towels can help brighten a dark bathroom whilst contrasting rich colours give a white bathroom a sharp fresh look. A plant or flowers will also add some interest.
• Show off all rooms to their best advantage. This will mean decluttering and boxing some of your personal items, photos and nick-knacks and storing these. An uncluttered room can create a feeling of relaxed openness and your styling should reflect the tastes and preferences of your target buyers.
• It is not only the furniture, fixtures and fittings that are important when making your home ready for sale, you should also consider the addition of small features such as plants, flowers, rugs, paintings and mirrors.
• The temperature and aroma of your house are also central to making your property attractive to buyers. In summer your home should be kept cool and in winter, cosy and warm. Odours such as cigarette smoke, pet smells and cooking aromas can be removed by opening up the house or with air and carpet fresheners.
• Always give your home a thorough clean and tidy prior to any Home Open and set the stage for some on to fall in love with your home.

Wishing you happy selling home owners,

Until next time,

Harry