Buyers are looking for love at first sight!
They’re seeking immediate attraction, something that makes their heart beat faster.
LOOKING YOUR BEST
Street appeal is so important. Tidy the front yard, put fresh mulch on the gardens and add a new latch to the gate so it opens easy. Give the fence a fresh coat of paint, wash the house and pavers or concrete to get rid of any oil stains.
MEET YOU AT THE FRONT DOOR
Potential buyers will be greeted at the front door, so it needs to be clean with a homely touch, such as twin pot plants or a nice door mat... or why not both?
SPRING CLEAN
De-cluttering is a must. It will make the whole house feel large and reduce distractions. Take all appliances off the kitchen benchtops, replace them with some fresh fruit in a bowl.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
If the temperature is right, open up all your windows, French doors and curtains, creating light and breezes. Put the lights on, even in the daytime, especially in the kitchen areas and bathrooms. Lamps are particularly effective in darker areas.
EXPECTING SOMEONE?
Present the house as if you’re about to have friends over. Set your table, it doesn’t have to be a formal setting, casual is better. Put a jug of water and nice glasses out or a loaf of bread on a nice platter with napkins. If you have a deck or courtyard, focus your efforts there rather than the formal dining area that isn’t regularly used.
IN BLOOM
Use striking fresh flowers to create a centrepiece in a room. Use a single magnolia or camellia from the garden in a float bowl, very dramatic and so homely.
BEDROOM ETIQUETTE
Make sure your bedspread is crisply ironed and the bed is perfectly made. A blanket neatly folded at the bottom of the bed is very effective. Ultimately, you want it to look like a hotel. Add extra pillows. Look at magazines for ideas.
SPLASH OUT IN YOUR BATHROOM
Soap, hand towels, bath towels and bath oils should be displayed in bathrooms, again to look like guests are coming over. Buy a beautiful set of towels and new quality soaps that you just use for inspections.
CREATING THE MOOD
Music works extremely well as buyers can freely look and talk about the house without feeling like they’re being watched. There are a number of compilation CDs that you can use to set the mood. You want the experience to be as comfortable and relaxed as possible for buyers.
YOUR BEST HOUR
Finally, know the best hours in the day to present your house. If you house faces east, it’s better to do an open home in the morning. This is important if you don’t have air-conditioning. We’d be happy to help you choose the perfect time to show your home at its best.
