Property viewings are a bit like first dates – make a good impression, and things can progress at lightning speed.
But if something is off-putting in the first few minutes, the situation can deteriorate rapidly.
The nitpicking starts. Negative thoughts kick in. And it’s all downhill from there.
This is why sellers need to pay attention to how they present their property to potential buyers.
What buyers see in those first few moments of a viewing can make or break the sale.
This may not seem entirely fair or rational. (Shouldn’t buyers see the whole property before making up their mind, we hear you ask.)
But it’s the stark reality of selling property. So, if you want to impress buyers, avoid these common viewing turn-offs.
Untidy exterior
Buyers often talk about having a ‘gut reaction’ when they see a home for the first time. And what their ‘gut’ tells them if they see a front garden full of weeds, crumbling brickwork and peeling paint is ‘this home is a dump’. Spruce up the exterior of your property so that your viewing gets off to a flying start.
Clutter
Having lots of ‘stuff’ on show, be it bundles of paper, piles of laundry or stacks of boxes, makes rooms feel busier and smaller. Before listing your property, declutter. On the day of a viewing, ensure benchtops, tables, bathroom vanities and sideboards are clear.
Dirt
Dirty plates, grimy bathtubs and skirting boards encased in dust can make buyers squirm. Make sure your property is spotless on the day of a viewing. If it’s going to be seen, it should be clean.
Odours
Buyers will turn their noses up at unpleasant odours, such as sweat, cigarette smoke, mildew and rotting rubbish. If you’ve given your home a good clean and taken out the rubbish, you’re already halfway there. Open the windows to air the property, then light a scented candle (try pine, vanilla or citrus) just to be sure.
Unfinished DIY and poor maintenance
If you’ve failed to maintain the property to a high standard, buyers will wonder if there are more serious structural issues to worry about as well. Broken floorboards, cracks, loose tiles and signs of damp are all red flags. Address them well in advance of viewings.
If you’re marketing a home, don’t just aim to get the basics right. Finesse the finer details too. That way, buyers will fall head over heels for your property.
For more advice about how to market your home, get in touch with us. We’re here to help.
