If you’re planning to sell your home but dreading the prospect of intrusive show days, rest assured . . . Leadhome may be your perfect partner.
Gone are the days of grainy newsprint images and one-dimensional showcasing of homes. Online portals offer so much more than vivid images and although most buyers will research on the internet first, actually seeing the property is vital.
The good news is that Leadhome prefers private viewings because you, as the homeowner, know your property best. It gives the already interested buyer dedicated time to imagine living in the home and provides a tactile experience of seeing features that might grab them on an emotional level – like a beautifully designed zen garden, or a cosy fireplace. Here are some useful tips to keep your home in tip-top condition for when potential buyers come for a viewing:
Tidy and declutter. It’s not rocket science – first impressions count, and an aesthetically pleasing interior is much easier to sell than a messy home. Most people can’t see beyond the clutter to visualise a neat space. Invest in affordable storage containers and/or toss unwanted items – this will also help you when it eventually comes to moving out! Store excess furniture in the garage and pack away anything (photo frames, keys, kids’ toys, medicine etc.) that may clutter countertops. It’s also a good idea to give yourself a timeframe for the decluttering process – set yourself and your family a deadline and stick to it!
Tap into the senses. “Staging the home” is important – inviting smells, flowers on the table and tidy spaces. A few drops of vanilla essence warmed up in the oven creates a freshly baked smell! Or you could add reed diffusers to bathrooms and burn scented candles. Avoid strong smells like incense or aerosol sprays which can be overpowering. Subtle works best.
Let there be light! The South African weather is a huge selling point so keep rooms as naturally lit and airy as possible by opening sliding doors and windows. Make sure curtains are open and blinds are up. Letting in the natural light also makes a room feel bigger. Keep windows squeaky clean to beautifully frame views. If potential buyers are coming in the late afternoon or evening, make sure that rooms are well lit – you don’t want the home to appear dark and depressing, so shine some light on the situation. The careful placement of lighting in the form of lamps can also add to the cosiness and ambience of your home.
Pay attention to detail. When cleaning the home, remember to wipe down any grimy door frames, light switches, door handles or sockets. The same goes for carpets – there is nothing more off-putting than dirty carpets. You may need to bring in a professional cleaner for this job, but it will pay off in the end. If couches are grubby have them cleaned at the same time as your carpets – you’ll be amazed at the difference a good wash will make. If cleaning services are a bit more than your budget allows, try a local supermarket as they often rent out carpet/furniture cleaning machines at reasonable rates.
Keep exteriors neat. The outside of the house is the first thing a buyer will see. If you can afford to repaint the house, then now’s the time to do it. Fix anything that is broken, cracked, chipped or that has a leak. Also, varnish wooden decks, fences and gates to give the impression of a well-maintained home. When living in a home, we often don’t take notice of clutter that is just part of the landscape of our lives, so take stock of any items lying around the exterior and do a good tidy up of the garden. (Thinks like paint tins and kids’ broken toys need to be removed.)
Neutral is best. You may love colourful décor but remember neutral shades may go the distance to sell a home. It’s calmer for the buyer and allows them to visualise the space filled with their own furniture. This means packing away gaudy items like scatter cushions, patterned rugs and duvet covers. Rather opt for plain, paler colours, if that’s an option.
Great Danish ‘hygge’ for your home. The Danish feel-good concept of ‘hygge’ (pronounced ‘hoo-ga’) has become a lifestyle trend. It’s about creating intimacy or ‘cosiness’, as well as creating a sense of well-being. If you’re selling your home in winter, you could work on a warm, cosy atmosphere, by placing throws or soft blankets over your sofas, using fairy lights to spruce up an unused fireplace, or by lighting candles.
Be honest. When you are showing possible buyers around your home, highlight all your favourite areas, but don’t feel inclined to create a ‘perfect world’ scenario. A home is meant to be lived in, answer any questions honestly but always steer the conversation towards the positive aspects of your home.
Good luck!
