Spring is Here - Get Sorted to Get Sold

The days are getting longer. It's getting warmer (well they tell us it is anyway). There are flowers poking their head out...

Yes, spring is emerging!

Maybe you’ve been hunkered down for winter and are now considering taking advantage of the warmer weather to sell your home. Good thinking - we are coming into the prime real estate sales season.

So, it's time to get ready!

We often get asked what work should you do prior to selling. Our advice is fix any issues that might have a material impact on the price, for example a leaking roof, or windows that need sealing. After that it is simple cosmetic items - replacing kitchens and bathrooms, for example, do not pay back quickly.  You are better to leave those. A quick coat of paint to freshen up inside will pay dividends. 

Then it’s about getting the property in top shape. Get outside and apply the “beauty contest" test. Making the most of your home's street appeal will pay dividends, making sure it stands out in the 10 second street beauty contest will get you sold faster for a better price. How do you know if you’ve got street appeal? Take a good, hard, objective, look!  To start with, head out the front door right now and face your house, first from across the road and then from right outside the gate. Take your camera and snap some photos.  

Be honest about what you see: does it look tidy and inviting, or a little worn and sloppy? How does your place compare with your neighbours’ houses? Try and see it all from a buyer’s perspective.  

If things are not quite up to scratch, don’t lose heart. There are a few quick fixes that can be done over a weekend - small things that could make all the difference to the number of phone calls, views, and offers you get. We outline 5 ways to improve your street appeal here.

Inside its about decluttering - it's time to move out so the buyer can move in. The theme is neutralise, sterilise and revitalise, so while you may love your hot pink bedroom walls and bright green in the lounge, bright wall colours tend to turn potential buyers off.  If you can a quick paint to neutralise the colour will make your home easier to sell.  Easy on the eye earth tones always work best. Go check some local developers show homes to get some inspiration. Fresh and clean is what you want, so 'sterilise' where needed. Shampoo carpets and clean drapes. Make sure there is no smoking inside. If the carpet is ‘grotty’ consider replacing it. Then revitalise to get the all important internal presentation right. Think show home. Time to remove the junk.  Consider storing all your unneeded things and boxed up belongings off site.  Rent a storage unit or a garage for a couple of months. This is a great way of presenting the entire property at its best and spacious self, and come moving day your half done!

Simple, straightforward things you can get onto right away.  Get these things sorted and you will go into the selling process in great shape! 

Spring is here, so take advantage of the prime real estate selling season. We’ve been really busy lately and only see things continuing to pick up.  As always if you have specific questions give us a call and we can chat through it - we’re here to help!