Choose an estate agent – speak to friends who have sold and ask if they would recommend the agent they used. Count the sold boards in your area to see which agents are successfully selling.

 

Obtain 2 or 3 valuations from different agents – don’t just go for the highest valuation, choose the most realistic and try to negotiate the fee.

 

Before the photos: -

 

v     Tidy the garden – make sure that the front garden is tidy and has kerb appeal. Plants in pots are a quick and simple way to spruce up; they can also be taken with you when you move.

v     Sort any minor repairs – fix any loose roof tiles, faulty gutters, tidy any paintwork.

v     De-Clutter – remove any clutter and excess items of furniture. Make the space look spacious. Put items into storage if necessary.

v     Treat any serious problems – such as damp or dry rot. Don’t try to hide anything like this as a surveyor will pick up on them anyway.

 

Check agent’s description – make sure that the estate agents description is accurate and check dimensions. Make sure that the photographs are clear and show plenty of the room and not just one item of furniture in there.

 

Make a list of likely questions viewers may ask – these may be nearest shop, petrol station, details about school catchment area and public transport.

 

Showing the property: -

 

v     Clean the kitchen and bathroom – make sure that these rooms are bright and sparkling clean. Traditionally, buyers pay the most attention to these 2 rooms.

v     Create a pleasant atmosphere – consider putting out fresh flowers to brighten up the property. Put a coffee percolator on or fresh bread in the oven.

v     Have utility bills to hand – to answer any questions about council tax banding and cost of gas and electric.

v     Make it clear what you are leaving – advise potential buyers which carpets, curtains etc you are leaving or willing to negotiate on. Also any built in electrical appliances.

 

Do’s and Don’ts

 

Do – use the local paper and estate agents to compare and research the prices of similar properties. If you want a quick sale, put yours for sale at slightly less.

Don’t – if possible try not to sell in the slow months – November and December, July and August when people are usually away on holiday.

Do– make sure that the photographs of your house are bright and clear and don’t show any mess or clutter. There is also nothing worse than seeing someone’s washing on the line or airer. Make sure exterior shots are taken on a sunny day.

Don’t – be temped to fully redecorate. Buyers may think you are trying to hide something and they are likely to change things to their own taste at a later date anyway.

Do – answer all questions honestly and openly. If you are seen as co-operative and friendly, buyers are more likely to make an offer.

Don’t – hover around while viewer’s look around, let them go at their own pace, they will find you if they have any questions.