How to get the most out of your viewings - what are buyers looking for?
For many buyers they make one of the biggest decisions of their lives based upon one, 15-minute viewing. Its therefore important to get the most out of the appointment. So, what can you do to make the most out of those 15 minutes?
1) Let your agent conduct the appointment
Your estate agent should have organised a ‘preview’ appointment with their selling team to meet with you and view your home. This is an opportunity for them ask you questions and learn about the property. This not only will increase the number of appointments actually booked but will also mean they can SELL your home in a professional manner.
2) First impressions – Property Frontage
Imagine you are turning up at your home for the first time. Walk up to your front door like a visitor. What do you see?
- Make sure front gates open and close properly and that the lock works. When was the last time it was painted?
- Your front door needs to be clean and all door furniture in good working order – especially the letter box and lock!
- Clean your windows
- The front garden, any pots and paths need to be clear from rubbish and weeds
- LOOK UP! Are gutters clear and free from weeds
3) Smell
You may not know it but your home has a smell. When buyers walk in you want it to smell welcoming. A diffuser in the hallway or a plug in air freshener can make a great impression on buyers.
4) Cleanliness
Make sure you have hoovered and cleaned. Make sure all rubbish has been binned and that your bins and food caddies are empty – this will also ensure there are no unpleasant smells.
5) Tidiness
Make surfaces as clear as possible. Put children’s toys away and show as much work top and clear floor as possible. Buyers will appreciate it’s your home so a certain amount of ‘mess’ is understandable. You live there and that’s what makes it your home.
Think about kitchen worktops, draining boards, tables, desks and bathrooms.
6) General Maintenance
If there’s anything you’ve been putting off and ‘living with’ (that loose door or wobbly tap for example) just DO IT! Fix it NOW. You can enjoy the fruit of your labour for the next few months of living in your home and buyers will have the confidence that you have maintained the property well.