Handy hacks for getting your place ready for house viewings

If you’re planning on selling your home, you’ll need to do some prep beforehand to ensure it’s ready for viewings and perceived by those prospective buyers in an attractive light.

People are moving less than ever before which means buyers are limited to what they can purchase – so a great looking property will ensure the first or second ones that come through your door put in an offer.

Here, we’ve featured some handy hacks that will help you prep your home and improve your chances of making that sale.

Clear the clutter

The first thing to do is have a sort out to remove any unnecessary clutter from shelves and sides. Not only will this help when it comes to the move itself – as there will be less to pack if you decide to donate or throw away any unnecessary items – but it will make your home look more appealing to prospective buyers.

If you have any bulky items taking up space in spare rooms – perhaps an exercise bike or an instrument you haven’t played in a while – that you don’t want to get rid of, consider moving them into storage while house viewings are taking place. There is a wide range of storage units available up and down the country, from storage in Farnborough to Fort William, shop around to find one that suits your needs and move those larger items into these during the viewing stage.

Remove any particularly personal touches

You don’t have to cleanse your home of any personal photographs or memories but it might be wise to remove any particularly personal touches. This means perhaps painting over a particularly decadent shade of red on the wall or removing any controversial art.

Ensure every room is clean

It’s important that every room, even those that aren’t used very often, are clean and orderly. Take some time to tidy the space, which should be easier than ever after your declutter, wipe down any sides or surfaces and hoover to ensure the floors are clear of debris.

Attention to detail is important

While cleaning, it’s important you look out for issues such as cobwebs or dust on skirting boards. People looking around your home will notice them, as they look in every corner of the room. Go around with the long arm of your hoover and ensure nothing is left behind.

It’s also worth looking at features in your home, such as light switches or door handles and ensuring that these are wiped down and clear of any smudges or marks. While you may not notice it day to day, those looking around your property are likely paying attention to every detail.

It’s also a good idea to have your oven cleaned professionally or to spruce it up yourself. You’ll likely be leaving the appliance behind, this means savvy buyers will open up the oven to check how clean it is inside and a very dirty oven could put some people off.

Don’t have your pets in your home during your viewing

You may love your furry or feathery friends but some house viewers may not. Ask a friend or family member to look after your dog or cat for the day, while people look around. Remove any beds or cages to get rid of any smells and ensure you freshen up the space once these things are gone.

If there has been any damage caused by pets, maybe a chewed door frame or a scratched up carpet, try to get these fixed before viewings begin.

And perhaps find a babysitter for your children

If you have kids, it may also be a good idea to have them stay with a trusted friend or family member during viewings. This ensures they aren’t a distraction for you or the viewers and you can focus on answering questions and ensuring your home is in the very best state.

It’s also a good idea to have as few people as possible in the house while the viewing takes place. The estate agent, you and the potential buyers should be the maximum amount of people in the property to ensure it doesn’t feel crowded. Buyers also prefer fewer people because they don’t want to feel like they’re intruding if the whole family is round.

Ensure the room is lit up

Light is important. Try to open curtains or blinds as much as possible to let the natural light in or if you’re having viewings in the depths of winter when it gets dark early, choose a lamp that emits soft light to create a pleasant atmosphere in the room. If the viewer asks you to put on the main light you can do this too. If it’s dark, candles also create a cosy atmosphere that encourages those viewing your home to see themselves in the space.

Do a little DIY

While you don’t necessarily have to revamp a whole room, it’s a good idea to touch up any marks on walls or repair peeling wallpaper to ensure your home looks well decorated and finished. Fix that broken door handle, replace the light bulb that’s gone from the fitting, ensure your home looks ready to move into.

Smells make a difference

It’s a good idea to try and make your home smell as good a possible. A plugin that emits a pleasant fragrant can help, as well as ensuring bins are emptied before people turn up. Scented candles create a cosy feel and can improve the smell of your home too. Consider seasonal smells depending on the time of year you’re selling your property, a festive cinnamon scent during the winter months can evoke happy feelings from those looking around while sweet, floral odours in spring are a great option.

Think about the time of year

The time of year you’re having viewings makes a difference to the small changes you need to make. If it’s a warm day ensure windows are open to allow fresh air to enter your home, while on cooler days ensure you pop the heating on half an hour before the viewing time to ensure your property is nice and warm when they look around.

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