Preparing your home for Spring

When it comes to selling your home, there are so many factors to consider that it can be difficult to know which are the most important parts to take in to account.

At Gilson Gray, we caught up with Jenny Carswell who is a Regional Sales Manager across Edinburgh and East Lothian, to discuss why it’s important to prepare your home for marketing and the key areas to focus on when doing so this Spring.

Declutter

Decluttering is essential, so that potential purchasers can see themselves and their own belongings in your property. Think show home! Dressed, but not personalised. No family photos, no bottles of toiletries in the shower tray or bath, and kitchen counter tops should be as clear as possible save for the kettle and toaster. Keeping everything clean, tidy and presentable will make the biggest difference for both photographs and viewings.

Touch up paintwork

Again, think show home, if you have ever been to visit one you will note they are pristine. No one is suggesting you have to levitate around your house whilst it is listed for sale, as you do still need to live in it, however, clean carpets/flooring and unstained walls make for a better chance of securing a buyer. Little touch up’s are important, so don’t overlook the benefits a fresh coat of paint can bring to brighten up a room.

Tackle small repairs

Photographs are taken to entice a potential buyer to book a viewing appointment and the in-person viewing should clinch it. To do that, the property has to look and feel even better than the listing, so the experience outweighs the expectation. Small repairs such as changing out any broken lightbulbs, filling small holes in the wall or replacing that broken doorhandle can make all the difference. People will remember how they feel and if they feel at home in your property, they are more likely to buy it.  

Clean your front door

The front door is the first and last impression of a property. Potential purchasers wait there until the door is answered and after the viewing will stand outside and chat about it whilst looking back at the property. It needs to have a lasting impression that is positive so make sure you give it a scrub down and sweep away any dirt or debris to keep it looking as welcoming as possible. A little seasonal décor never hurts either whether it be a doormat or a wreath.

Consider staging

If you have no idea where to start with the de cluttering process, then a stager can be invaluable to help you present your home in the best way. When it is your home, it can be hard to see it though potential purchasers’ eyes so a stager can help to arrange furniture, and remove/add items that will make it more appealing to the viewer – the future owner!

At Gilson Gray, we never underestimate that moving home is one of the most stressful things you can do. It is the most expensive item you will ever sell or indeed buy. You need someone in your corner to guide you throughout the process that is easily contactable, to ask any questions as the process unfolds, and to give you sage and honest advice regarding offers in the current market; this is when local knowledge is vital. We tailor our service to suit the needs of our individual clients so they can be assured of a professional but friendly experience, and that their needs are at the forefront of our service.

Are you thinking of buying your next home this Spring? Contact Jenny Carswell direct to discuss your specific property needs via jcarswell@gilsongray.co.uk or find out more here.

Aberdeen – Deborah Bonner dbonner@gilsongray.co.uk

Dundee – Ben Finnie bfinnie@gilsongray.co.uk