Rule # 1
First impressions count for everything:
A first impression of a person/home/car will take 8 weeks to change, once that impression has been made. So make that first impression count. If you do feel you need to spend money to 'spruce the place up,' I suggest you consider very carefully what areas really need money spent, just before placing the property on the market. Spend most of that money on the front of the house - that's where any prospective buyer gets that first and lasting impression. It's this impression that gets the buyers in the door and you can leave the rest for a good agent to work with.

 

Rule # 2
Don't spend money unless you absolutely have to:
The money you spend now invariably can be wasted on the buyer. A lot of elbow grease and rolling up the sleeves to present your property to look at its best will most likely be far more valuable.

 

Rule # 3
Prepare an inventory of all you need to do:
Take a walk around your property from front to back, taking notes and preparing a list of all you think will improve it. From that list, prioritise your 'to do list' and 'quotes required list' then methodically work through them both. If you're finding it tough to get through your 'to do list', get onto the smaller tasks and work with them.

 

Rule # 4
Unclutter everywhere:
An uncluttered property is easier to sell than a cluttered one. One of the most distracting elements that can spoil a property's presentation is all the furnishings and general clutter that the present owner(s) have accumulated and have on display. If you need to see what we're talking about, visit a new Display Home to get a feel for an uncluttered presentation.

 

Rule # 5
Remember your taste isn't universal:
A modern, minimalist look doesn't necessarily appeal to everyone - by the same token a 'charming and character' look may not appeal to the masses either. Try to keep a broad outlook in all areas of the property.

 

Rule # 6
Freshen up the interior of your home:
Repair and paint the internal walls. Always use neutral colours throughout and keep a consistent theme with the occasional feature wall, to bring out contrast and dimensions in the home.

 

Rule # 7
Water the garden:
Plant some perennials and pull up weeds, trim hedges, trees and bushes. Keep the grass cut and looking as green as possible, even if that means mowing once a week until your property is sold.

Check # 1
Ask yourself the basic questions:
As obvious as this first check sounds, you would be surprised how often it is overlooked. These questions can include, but are not limited to: the area you want to live in, type of accommodation you are looking for, and proximity to amenities. Other areas include whether the property will be used for investment purposes, the length of time you plan to own the property, and most importantly if you can afford the property you're looking for.

 

Check # 2
Have your finances in order:
Sorting your finances before embarking on a property search gives you a clear borrowing and thus purchasing capacity. This allows a practical approach to purchasing property, and avoids disappointment or overspending. Furthermore, having finances prepared means that when you inevitably do find that perfect property, you'll be ready to pounce and make a solid offer.

 

Check # 3
Do your research:
Having a key knowledge of the state of the market and the suburb(s) you're looking to purchase in, is key to making a wise investment decision. Research can include recent sale prices in the area, the amount of properties for sale in the area, and how volatile price changes have been.

 

Check # 4
Get a second opinion:
It's easy to get rose tinted glasses when searhcing for that perfect property. If you see a property that does interest you, be sure to take a trusted person with you for a second viewing - as they may pick up problems that you may not. This will allow you to make a more balanced decision if the property is right for you.

 

Check # 5
Give Carstairs Estate Agency a call!
The team at Carstairs Estate Agency are experienced in the art of purchasing homes. We are more than happy to guide you through the purchasing process - giving you the confidence and knowledge that you're making the right decision.