Preparing your Property for Sale
First Impressions: The Key to Your Asking Price
Human nature can be quite intriguing, and it’s something we can’t overlook.
When a potential buyer arrives to view your home for the first time, they’ll form an opinion about its value within the first 3 to 5 seconds.
If your home doesn’t immediately appear to justify your asking price, you could face challenges, even if the interior is outstanding.
The buyer may start to have doubts before they even step inside.
To better understand this initial impression, stand in the street or at the end of your driveway and take a variety of photos showing what a prospective buyer will see as they approach your home. Examine these images closely and seek feedback from others about areas that might need improvement.
This process can be difficult, but it’s crucial for ensuring that first impressions align with your asking price.
Try these five tips to prepare your house for sale:
THE GARDEN
You don’t need a professionally landscaped garden, but it should be tidy and well-maintained.
Ensure every part of it is cared for and that any remnants from previous DIY projects are cleared away.
Also, make sure that sheds and outdoor entertainment areas are in excellent condition.
HOUSE EXTERIOR
An older home can still look great!
Clean the roof, ensure the gutters are clear and securely attached, water blast the exterior, and if possible, apply a fresh coat of paint.
Avoid dirty pathways, spiderwebs, and grimy windows at all costs.
Make sure all structures on the property appear clean and well-kept.
HOUSE INTERIOR
Declutter, declutter, declutter!
Furnish each area to highlight its purpose and size. Style your home like a motel—neutral and inviting, without personal collections or photos. It’s important for buyers to envision themselves living there.
A clean and tidy space is always a winning approach!
START PACKING!
De-cluttering can be tough if storage space is limited, but since you're moving anyway, it's time to start packing.
Pack as much as possible, and remember that prospective buyers will likely peek inside your linen cupboard, so don’t just throw things in there! Consider renting a storage container or neatly organising the packed boxes in your garage.
NEIGHBOURS
Let your neighbours know that you’re selling your home. Often, a neighbour may have admired your property and might consider buying it themselves, or their guests might be interested.
The more people who are aware of the sale, the better your chances of finding a buyer quickly. Neighbours also appreciate being informed about potential increased traffic from viewings or open houses.
Low on Cash for Marketing or Home Improvements? No Problem!
List Now (www.listnow.co.nz) is an organisation that offers support for marketing your property and covers the costs of getting your property in top condition to achieve the best possible price.
Visit their website using the button below, to learn more.