It’s been a seller’s market for property in Edinburgh and the Lothians over the last two years, with demand exceeding supply and most properties selling quickly.
In a strong market, some sellers fall into the trap of thinking that the way their property is presented isn’t as important as “it will sell anyway”. However, the truth is that if you want to get the best price for your property, you always need to do everything you can to ensure that your property is looking its best and is seen by as many buyers as possible.
We asked David Marshall, Operations Director of Warners, to share his top tips for getting the best price for your property if you’re planning on selling early in 2018.
Act Fast and Beat The Crowd
The same trends can be seen in the property market each year; buyers start looking for properties almost as soon as the New Year is rung in and those who get their home up for sale early attract huge interest, however many sellers are slow to get their home onto the market after the Christmas period.
If you can, get your property valued and choose your estate agent in the first couple of weeks in January. That way you will beat the competition to the punch, get your home on the market quickly and take advantage of the early rush of demand in the New Year.
Clear Away the Christmas Clutter
De-cluttering is one of the best ways to open up your home, create space and allow buyers to imagine how they would make the property look in their mind’s eye. Before you have photographs taken of your property, take down decorations and tidy away toys and gifts. If you have larger items that you’re struggling to find storage space for, ask a friend or relative if they’d be able to look after them for you until you have sold your home.
Make a Great First Impression
It’s a cliché, but first impressions really do count. Make sure that you keep any paths and driveways clear of snow, ice and fallen leaves. If you have a garden, brave the elements to trim back any overgrown hedges and think about adding a splash of colour with early-blooming flowers like Algerian iris or winter jasmine.
A Warm Welcome
When you’re expecting viewers, make sure that your property is warm, well-lit and welcoming. Replace any used bulbs and have the heating on in plenty of time before viewers arrive. Greeting buyers coming in from the cold with a wave of warm air as they walk through your front door is a great way to create a positive impression of your property. You can even offer them a hot tea or coffee to help them feel warm and relaxed as they make their way round your home!
Looking to move home? Speak to a specialist adviser today on 0800 652 6649, or email [email protected]
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1! But a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.