As the evenings begin to draw in, sellers should take stock of their property if they are to maximise their chances of securing an early sale. Buyer activity is traditionally very good at this time of year, but your property still needs to compete well if it is to sell readily. Here are some tips, with our compliments:

Kerb appeal. You only get one chance to make a first impression – so make it count, as buyers make instant judgements. Make sure lawns are neat and pathways swept.

How about a coat of fresh paint for the front door, and a new doormat?

Make sure gutters are free from debris and are draining properly. There are few things worse than waiting outside a house with a torrent of water threatening the back of your neck!

People in coats are bulkier, so make sure your entrance hall is clear of bicycles, toys and wellies.

Many people cruise past a property before making an appointment to view. So, on dark evenings, make it looks like a home from the outside. Table lamps and soft lighting give an impression of cosiness and should be turned on mid afternoon. A “For Sale” board will also make the house easier to find.

Ensure your windows are sparkling clean, as recent rain may have left them dirty, and maximise available daytime light by ensuring that curtains are fully open.

Make sure the house feels warm inside. You are selling a home after all, not just four walls and a roof.

If you’re keen to move this side of Christmas, why not take advantage of our property marketing advice service? It’s free and will give you a good opportunity to gauge whether we could be the right agent for you! Please feel free to contact us on 03330 430090.

Peter Ryder

Managing Director

Thorntons Property