If you’re considering selling your home over the coming months, a little preparation now can help your property make the right first impression when it comes to viewings and photography.
Here are seven things to consider before putting your home on the market this autumn.
1. Make the Most of Kerb Appeal
The front of your property is often the first thing a potential buyer will see, so it is worth taking a fresh look at how your home appears from the outside.
Keep paths and driveways clear, tidy borders and remove any summer plants that have passed their best. As the leaves begin to fall, keeping paths, lawns and entrances tidy can also make a noticeable difference. The simplest of changes help to create an appealing first impression.
2. Have a Seasonal Tidy-up
After a busy summer, September can be the perfect opportunity to have a good look around your home and tackle those jobs that may have been put off during the warmer months.
Decluttering can help rooms feel easier to appreciate, while putting away excess belongings can help buyers see the space and how it could work for them.
Think about hallways, kitchen worktops, shelves and other areas where everyday items can quickly accumulate.
3. Tidy the Garden
A garden can be an important feature for buyers, even as summer comes to an end.
Mow the lawn, tidy borders, remove fallen leaves and give patios and terraces a sweep. If you have outdoor furniture, make sure it is clean and presented neatly.
There is no need to make your garden look like summer, as an attractive, well-maintained autumn garden can still show buyers how the outdoor space could be enjoyed throughout the year.
4. Take a Fresh Look at Lighting
As the evenings become shorter, good lighting becomes increasingly important.
Open curtains and blinds during daytime viewings to make the most of natural light, and check that lamps and light fittings are working throughout the property.
If you are having new photography taken, speak to your agent about the best time of day to capture your home and garden.
5. Tackle Small Maintenance Jobs
Before inviting buyers through the door, it can be worthwhile dealing with any small repairs that may have been on your list for a while.
Check for dripping taps, sticking doors, blown light bulbs or areas of paintwork that need attention. Outside, gutters, fencing, paths and garden buildings may also benefit from a quick check before the wetter weather arrives.
These details may seem minor, but good maintenance can help to give buyers confidence in choosing your property.
6. Start the Conversation with your Estate Agent
Perhaps the most useful thing you can do this September is to start planning.
A conversation with your local estate agent can help you understand how your property could be positioned in the current market, what buyers are looking for and whether there are any preparations worth making before going live.
7. Planning for Photography
Good photography is an important part of presenting your property online, where most home buyers will form their first impression.
Before your photographs are taken, it’s best make sure rooms are tidy, surfaces are clear and curtains and blinds are open where appropriate. Fresh flowers, neatly arranged cushions or a well-presented dining table can add a welcoming touch without making the property feel staged.
Our estate agents can also advise on how to present your home to highlight the key features to their best advantage.
Ready to Make Your Move this Autumn?
If you are thinking about selling, September could be the ideal time to start preparing. From understanding your property’s potential value to discussing the best approach to marketing, getting the right advice early can help you move forward with confidence.
At Mackenzie Smith, our local teams understand the different property markets across North Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire and can provide personal advice based on your home and your plans.
If you’re a local homeowner thinking of selling, arrange your free property valuation with Mackenzie Smith, here.
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