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How to get your house ready for sale

Whether you are thinking of selling, are in the process of putting your house on the market – or just want to boost your property’s value while you have the time, making small improvements to your home can make a big impact when it comes to showing your property to market.

Here are our simple tips and tricks to prepare your house for sale from Chief Auctioneer, Andrew Robinson.

Tidy up and make your property sparkle

According to realestate.com.au mess and chaos is one of the top turn-offs for buyers, so to prep for a successful sale, you must invest in a good clean and declutter. Andrew Robinson says decluttering and cleaning not only adds to the visual appeal of the home but allows potential buyers to see the true size and scale of the property.

“Decluttering helps your potential buyer to imagine themselves in the space whilst making your property seem larger than it is, which is advantageous when it comes to price.

“With smaller groups coming through your property than they would in a usual busy, 30-minute open home, buyers are getting to see more of the ins and outs of your property, so you have to make sure you are making a good impression from the get-go,” says Andrew.

Consider your curb appeal

If you’re preparing for a sale you need to look at your home as an overall package. Curb appeal is just as important as the interiors. In fact, according to Domain, improving your property’s exterior is the number one way you can add value to your home. Look at your property with fresh eyes – is your garden needing some attention, does the façade need a fresh coat of paint, could the house be improved with a new front door?      

“These changes will make a world of difference when it comes to photographing and videoing your home for marketing campaigns.

“Regardless of whether the potential buyer is physically viewing your home, driving past or viewing online, they will be impressed with a well-maintained property exterior,” says Andrew.

Make minor repairs or renovations

Some minor repairs or renovations around your property might be worth making, especially if they will make an impact to your sale price.

“If the house needs painting, a fresh coat can add a lot of value and appeal, especially in a competitive market. If you’re already working with a real estate agent, a more experienced agent may also point out small changes that have the potential to improve the overall look and feel of an entire room.

“New tapware in bathrooms or kitchens is a good example of a simple reno that can add a lot of style to a property. New window shutters, blind or curtains, a new splashback in the kitchen – or even polishing floorboards can also go a long way in improving the look of a room – ultimately leading to a more competitive price,” Andrew explains.

Style your home for sale

According to OpenAgent, while styling doesn’t always promise a return on investment, on average, you can expect to see a 7.5 to 12.5 per cent increase on your final sale price.

“With many vendors opting to use professional styling, if yours has not been styled it can look less appealing in comparison,” says Andrew.

“As we approach the cooler seasons and people are being encouraged to stay at home, try to play to homely and inviting interior décor. Little touches like soft, textured throws or occasional chairs for reading will help the buyer feel at home.

“It’s also a good idea to place seasonal flowers around the house, and make sure that if there is an outdoor area, it is styled in a way that showcases its use to full effect, like adding a dining setting.”

To learn more, read our blog the value of using a real estate agent or contact your local Hockingstuart agent or office today.