10 tips to selling your home

1. Exteriors - First impressions count

Take an objective look at the outside of your property or maybe even ask a family member or friend. If its looking a little run down, evaluate the extent of the work needed to smarten it up. Simple jobs like cleaning fascia boards and guttering. Maybe even a quick lick of paint to flaky woodwork can give exteriors an instant facelift.

2. Garden makeover

We're not talking about major landscaping, just taming overgrown areas. Mowing the lawn and pulling up weeds from paving won't take long and can make a world of difference.

3. Remove obstacles

It's best not to make your prospective buyer jump over hurdles. This may mean moving children's play things, pets' toys and baskets, bicycles or sports items. Clear routes for buyers to make it easy for them to view your home. 

4. Ensure rooms smell fresh

Strong cooking odours or lingering pet smells can be off-putting. Open windows to allow fresh air to circulate and install discreet air fresheners. 

5. Clear clutter 

Buyers will expect to see the usual ornaments and knick-knacks, however too much clutter can be a distraction. How about a clear out of unwanted items earlier this will not only make space but will save time when you come to move. 

6. Open up the view

Moving unused items of furniture can open up a room and make it look more spacious. If an area is crowded buyers may not be able to appreciate the true dimensions of the room. 

7. Let in light

Maximise the amount of natural light coming into your house by making sure all curtains and blinds are fully open. Make sure overgrown trees are cut back so they do not obscure light. 

8. Brighten a dull room

If you have a room in the house which is dull/dark maybe try using a higher wattage light bulb or paint the walls in pale colours and add mirrors to reflect light. 

9. Leave the building

Your home is, of course personal to you, and sometimes this can make prospective buyers feel awkward. They may refrain from too much discussion in front of you. They are also more likely to spend longer on a viewing and ask more questions to the agent if you're not there. A buyer is more likely to give constructive feedback which you maybe able to use for future viewings. 

10. Trust your estate agent

Experienced estate agents know what they're doing. They will have sold numerous properties in the past and have hopefully gained many years knowledge of selling houses. So why not trust them to sell our house rather than trying to do it yourself.