As a vendor advocate and Byron Bay buyer’s agent, I often advise sellers on presenting their homes well before going to market. Some owners make the mistake of spending big on things that do not pay off and ignore minor cosmetic changes that can result in better outcomes. Nine out of ten times, it’s best not to break the bank, as simple things go a long way.
Here’s a quick checklist:
1. First impressions are most important. Make sure the front entrance is bright and welcoming. Does it need a fresh coat of paint? Maybe lay down some mulch in the garden beds. If the driveway is rough and unsealed, a load of white pebbles can lift it.
2. Now, walk in the front door with fresh eyes as if you have never been there. Is it cluttered and messy? Are there any nicks or marks in the paint? Does the hallway seem open, expansive and inviting?
3. Bathrooms and kitchens get special scrutiny from prospective buyers, so give attention to these rooms. Clean up any clutter and thin out the contents of the cupboards to give a better idea of space. Check for any signs of mould in wet areas and inside the vanity.
4. New buyers often like to do a new kitchen themselves, so it is very rarely worthwhile to redo a kitchen (or bathroom). However, there are a few tricks to make an old kitchen look presentable and not like something from before the war.
5. Clean all windows and windowsills, especially if your view is special. Make sure all windows and doors open and close cleanly without any stickiness.
6. Check your woodwork. You can quickly touch up chipped or marred paint on balustrades and floor moulding.
7. Inspect areas that come in frequent contact with soiled hands – especially window frames, doorframes, edges of doors, and walls around light switches. If the areas are dirty, you may be able to clean them; if that doesn’t work, do touch-up painting. Buy new light switch covers if they are old and stained.
8. Same approach with cabinet doors: Scrub clean of fingerprints, if possible, or touch up painted areas. Pay special attention to the kitchen, which should be spotless.
9. Water stains on the ceiling from old roof leaks are a huge red flag for prospective buyers. After ensuring your roof is sound, re-paint these potential deal-breakers.
10. When presenting your house to prospective buyers, find the right balance between a home and a hotel. Make it look personal and lived-in but not messy and cluttered. The buyer could move right in without too much trouble.
Get Help:
Find out more about Byron Property Search’s vendor advocacy service here. A vendor’s advocate and Byron Bay buyer’s agent can best assist and advise you before you sign with a listing agent.