Top tips when selling property

Snagging a sale is a more difficult task in today’s buyer’s market, but stylists and real estate agents agree good presentation helps sell properties.

According to the property stylist and principal of Derham Interiors, Anna Derham, styling a property for sale is almost a given in this day and age.

“Not only does it help create a great first impression, but it improves the appeal of your home to potential buyers, and gets more people through the front door,” she said.

“That means more competition for your property, and potentially, more money in your pocket.”

For sellers on a tight budget, Mrs Derham recommends compiling a comprehensive jobs list of everything that needs to be undertaken in the lead up to the property going to market.

“It is worth investing, even that small amount of time and effort can translate into tens of thousands of dollars at the other end,” she said.

Director of Vault Interiors, Justine Wilson, said 90 percent of buyers can’t envision how an empty space will look or work for them so it’s important to present the home as move-in ready.

“To get buyers to look at the listing and thus go to your open ensure the property has some furniture – even if it’s your own items – to show scale and function, and add finishing touches and create a good first impression,” she said.

“Adding a bunch of flowers, bright scatter cushions and colourful throws along with burning a scented candle will make buyers feel welcome.”

REN Property’s managing director David Podmore said curb appeal is a key marketing tool.

He said external work may include painting, adding new guttering, a new garage door and cleaning up the yard.

“If a house has a lovely pool then you want the grounds around the pool to be sensational,” he said.

“However, if it’s a house that’s been left neglected, or vacant, you sometimes get more money if you don’t do anything.

“Some people want to do things their way – people will pay a premium to put their stamp on a property at times.”

He also cautioned against poorly executed upgrades on a budget as this can sometimes turn buyers off.

Top tips to get your property ready for sale on a budget

1 – Declutter including removing appliances on kitchen benches and children’s toys

2 – Make the property appear spacious by removing excess furniture, even putting it in storage.

3 – Undertake basic maintenance; change lightbulbs, clean windows and fix chipped paint.

4 – Pay attention to the exterior of the property by clipping hedges, mowing lawns, weeding gardens and even painting the front door if needed.

5 – Make sure the temperature is comfortable by opening all curtains and blinds, turning on heating or air conditioning.

– BY REALESTATEVIEW.COM.AU