By First impressions count, so make sure potential buyers get a great first impression when viewing the outside of your home. Failure to do so and you may find you receive fewer viewings or potential purchasers already feeling doubtful before entering the property.
Comparisons
Take a fresh look at your property from different aspects and viewpoints. See how it compares to your neighbours’ and other properties in the road. Are there any obvious repairs, check the roof, windows etc. Sometimes it is hard for potential purchasers to see past an essential repair that you feel you can explain at the viewing.
Neighbours
Your neighbourhood is also on display. Your next door neighbour’s house may not be for sale, but if their property is run down or neglected it may let yours down too. If possible speak to your neighbours. If they are unwilling, maybe offer to pay / carry out some minor surface repair work or take rubbish away for them. It will make a difference to how your property is rated.
Porch / Doorway
Remember potential purchasers will wait at your front door and will view your cobwebs, doorbell, letterbox and any light fittings.
Tidy the Front Garden
Regardless of the time of year, make sure your front garden is tidy and well maintained; hedges and trees trimmed, plants tidy, lawns cut, paths swept and free of moss, waste removed and the garden fence/gate in full working order.
Paintwork
Ensure the front gate, fence and door have been recently painted in neutral colours. This gives potential purchasers an anticipation the rest of the property is well maintained.
Clean the Windows
It is worth investing in a window cleaner; optimising light on the inside and giving a clean image of your house from the outside. Some Window Cleaners will advise on repairs and repainting of frames. Poor framework on windows can be noted on future surveys too.
Make sure your home looks inviting and that it has ‘kerb appeal.’ Ask yourself – “from what I see from outside, would I make an appointment to view the house further ?”.