Preparing Your Home For Sale

• People tend not to buy bricks and mortar, but a 'home.' If a house doesn't 'feel' right it will be difficult to sell. The 'feel' of your house can be influenced by a host of individual factors. Here are a few hints to help you make your house 'feel' like your viewers' new 'home.'

• First impressions are vital. Ensure that the front garden is neat and tidy and that the front elevation of the house, at least, is well maintained - particularly the front door! A hanging basket by the front door is well worth the investment.

• Tidy up! Clutter really does make a house look smaller. A tidy house has the feel of a much larger one. Think about any unnecessary furniture as well. If in doubt - get it out!

• Pay attention to the smells. Homebuyers use all their senses when getting the 'feel' of your home. Clean the curtains and carpets and give the whole place a good ‘spring clean’. There's a lot of truth in the old adage of employing the aroma of freshly baked bread and a pot of fresh coffee. At least, use a little pot pourri around the place. A couple of bunches of fresh fragrant flowers make a huge difference.

• In addition to preparation of the house itself, gather together a portfolio of paperwork that any serious potential buyer may very well want to see. Gas, electricity bills etc., plus any guarantees for damp proofing or other remedial work that have been undertaken.

• Whilst these tasks may seem something of a chore, they really will make a tremendous difference to the saleability of your house.