Selling an inherited home can be an emotional and sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether the property brings fond memories or presents unexpected challenges, there are a few important things to keep in mind when deciding to sell. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process.
1. Give Yourself Time to Process
First and foremost, take a moment to breathe. Inheriting a home often follows the passing of a loved one, and selling straight away might feel rushed. It’s okay to take your time to process everything before jumping into decisions. You don’t need to sell immediately—give yourself space to think about what’s best for you.
2. Understand the Tax Implications
One of the first things to check when you inherit a property is whether there are any tax obligations. In the UK, there may be inheritance tax to consider, and when you sell the home, you might also face capital gains tax depending on how much the property has appreciated in value. It’s a good idea to speak to an accountant or tax advisor to understand the financial side.
3. Get the House Valued
Before you make any decisions, it’s important to know what the house is worth. Get a few estate agents in to give you valuations so you have a clear idea of the property’s value in today’s market. This can help you figure out whether selling is the best option, or if you might want to rent the property out instead.
4. Consider the Condition of the Property
Inherited homes are often older or may have been lived in by elderly relatives, so they might need some work before going on the market. Take a close look at the condition of the house—does it need a fresh coat of paint, some repairs, or a bit of TLC to make it more appealing to buyers? You may need to budget for a few upgrades to get the best price.
5. Sort Through Personal Belongings
This can be one of the hardest parts of selling an inherited home. Sorting through personal belongings can bring up a lot of emotions. Take your time going through the items—keep what’s sentimental, donate what you can, and responsibly clear out the rest. If it feels too overwhelming, you can always hire a professional service to help.
6. Decide Whether to Sell As-Is or Renovate
You’ll need to decide whether to sell the property as-is or invest in some renovations before putting it on the market. While fixing up the house might help you get a higher selling price, it could also require time and money that you may not want to invest. Consider the pros and cons—if the house is in decent shape, selling as-is might be the simpler route.
7. Work with an Estate Agent You Trust
Lastly, choosing the right estate agent can make the whole process smoother. Look for an agent with experience in selling inherited homes and who understands the emotional side of the sale as well as the practical. They can help guide you through pricing, marketing, and closing the sale, making sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
Final Thoughts
Selling an inherited home comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take your time, seek professional advice where needed, and focus on what feels right for you. Whether you decide to sell, rent, or hold onto the property for a while, the decision is yours to make.
If you need help with your inherited property, reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll help you all the way.
Choosing the right estate agent is crucial when selling your home. If things aren’t progressing as expected, it might be time to reassess whether you’re working with the best agent for your needs.
Here are 7 solid reasons to consider switching estate agents in the UK:
1. Poor Communication
Communication is key when selling a property, and you should expect regular updates from your estate agent. Whether it’s feedback from viewings, offers, or just general updates, you shouldn’t feel like you’re constantly chasing them. If you’re left in the dark for days or weeks at a time, that’s a red flag. A good estate agent will keep you in the loop, respond promptly, and be available to answer any questions you have. If you’re feeling ignored or neglected, it’s probably time to move on to someone more attentive.
2. Lack of Effort or Enthusiasm
Selling a property requires energy and effort, and if your agent seems uninterested or passive, it could be costing you valuable opportunities. Are they putting the effort into marketing, following up with interested buyers, and holding viewings? If it feels like they’re doing the bare minimum, it might be time for a change. You need an agent who is as motivated to sell your home as you are and who will actively work to find the right buyer.
3. Overpricing the Property
Some agents will suggest an inflated asking price to win your business, but this strategy can often backfire. An overpriced property can sit on the market for too long, becoming stale and unattractive to buyers. Eventually, you may have to reduce the price, which can put buyers off even more. If your home has been on the market for a while with no serious interest, it might be worth seeking a second opinion from an agent who can provide a more realistic valuation.
4. Too Few Viewings
If your property has been listed for weeks or even months and you’ve only had a handful of viewings (or none at all), it’s a strong sign that something isn’t right. A lack of viewings could be down to poor marketing, an unrealistic asking price, or an agent who isn’t actively promoting your property. Switching to an agent with a better track record of generating interest and attracting viewings could make all the difference in getting your home sold.
5. Not Acting on Buyer Feedback
When buyers view your property, their feedback is valuable. If you’re hearing repeated criticisms (e.g., about the layout, décor, or price) and your agent isn’t addressing these concerns or suggesting solutions, that’s a problem. A proactive agent will take feedback seriously and help you make necessary adjustments—whether that’s tweaking the listing, adjusting the price, or staging the property differently. If your current agent seems dismissive of feedback, it’s worth looking elsewhere.
6. Poor Marketing
In today’s digital age, first impressions matter. If your property listing has poorly lit photos, a vague or uninspired description, or isn’t being promoted on all the right platforms, it could be turning buyers off before they even step foot in your home. A new agent with a fresh approach to marketing can breathe new life into your listing, using high-quality photos, engaging descriptions, and modern techniques to reach a wider audience and attract more interest.
7. Lack of Local Knowledge
An estate agent who truly understands the local market can make a big difference in how effectively they sell your home. If your agent isn’t familiar with the area, they may struggle to highlight the benefits of living there or price your home competitively. A good local agent will have their finger on the pulse of the community—they’ll know what buyers are looking for, what similar properties are selling for, and how to market your home to appeal to those who want to live in your area.
Final Thoughts
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and it’s important to have the right estate agent by your side. If your current agent isn’t delivering the service, enthusiasm, or results you need, don’t be afraid to switch. Sometimes, a fresh approach is exactly what it takes to get your property sold.
To start your stress free move reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll arrange a free valuation. Your first step in getting your house sold!
As the summer days start to fade and we welcome the crisp air of autumn, September can be an ideal time to make changes—whether it’s adjusting your lifestyle or considering a move. For those who have been toying with the idea of selling their property, September might just be the perfect time to take the plunge. Here are seven reasons why selling in September makes a lot of sense.
1. Back-to-School Means Buyers Are More Serious
With the summer holidays coming to an end and kids heading back to school, many families shift their focus from travel and relaxation to planning for the future. This often includes house-hunting. Buyers in September tend to be more focused and motivated, keen to settle into their new homes before the Christmas rush or the year’s end.
2. Perfect Weather for Viewings
September offers the best of both worlds when it comes to weather. The scorching heat of summer is over, and the chilly days of winter are still a way off. Mild, pleasant weather makes for comfortable viewings, where potential buyers can take their time exploring the property and the garden. Your home is more likely to show at its best with natural light still abundant, without the oppressive heat or unpredictable storms.
3. Autumn Colours Highlight the Garden
The early autumn bloom is in full swing during September, and a well-maintained garden can look absolutely stunning. If you’ve got a lovely outdoor space, this time of year can enhance it with warm colours, making it even more appealing to potential buyers. A beautiful garden can create a lasting first impression, which can be crucial in securing a sale.
4. End-of-Year Move
Many buyers aim to be settled into their new homes by Christmas. September offers a sweet spot in the property market where buyers can purchase a home and still have plenty of time for the moving process. This sense of urgency works in your favour as a seller because potential buyers are more likely to act quickly and efficiently to close the deal.
5. Less Competition in the Market
The summer market can be flooded with sellers looking to capitalise on the warm months, but come September, many people have paused their plans. This decrease in competition gives you an opportunity to stand out. Buyers who might have been overwhelmed by choices in the summer will now have fewer properties to choose from, increasing the chances that your home will catch their eye.
6. Ideal Time for Downsizing
For many, September signifies the start of a new chapter. Kids have gone off to university, or perhaps you’re simply looking for a change of pace. If you’ve been thinking about downsizing, this could be the perfect time. Selling in September allows you to move before winter, giving you time to settle into a more manageable space before the busy holiday season hits.
7. Buyers Have Their Finances in Order
By September, many buyers have had the time to sort out their finances and are ready to make a move. Some might have received summer bonuses or reached savings goals, making them more financially prepared to make an offer. When buyers are well-prepared, it can lead to quicker negotiations and smoother sales.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, moving can be a complicated process, but with the right preparation and September offers a sweet spot in the property market that blends serious buyers, fewer competitors, and appealing conditions for viewings. Whether you’re downsizing, upsizing, or simply looking for a change, selling in September gives you a good chance of completing your sale by the end of the year. So, if you’ve been considering selling, now might just be the perfect time!
To start your stress free move reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll arrange a free valuation. Your first step in getting your house sold!
Moving home can be a stressful experience. To help smooth the process and make it as stress free as possible, it’s always good to have a comprehensive checklist.
Here is our ultimate moving checklist:
8-12 Weeks Before Moving:
Create a Moving Folder: Store all documents, receipts, and quotes.
Set a Budget: Estimate costs for supplies, movers, insurance, and contingencies.
Research Movers: Get quotes and book early.
Declutter: Decide what to keep, donate, sell, or bin.
Notify Parties: Inform utilities, and subscriptions. Update your address.
Start Packing: Begin with non-essential items like seasonal clothing and decor.
4-6 Weeks Before Moving:
Gather Supplies: Stock up on boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.
Pack by Room: Label boxes with contents and their destination room.
Arrange Time Off: Book a few days off around your move.
Confirm Plans: Reconfirm with the moving company and check for necessary permits.
Plan for Pets/Kids: Arrange care for children or pets on moving day.
2-3 Weeks Before Moving:
Pack Valuables Separately: Keep important items in a safe place.
Set Up Utilities: Schedule disconnections and new connections.
Finalise Moving Plans: Confirm details with the movers and prepare a task list.
Clean and Repair: Deep clean and carry out any necessary repairs.
1 Week Before Moving:
Pack an Essentials Box: Include toiletries, a change of clothes, documents, and basic kitchen items.
Defrost Appliances: Defrost and clean the fridge/freezer 24 hours before moving.
Check Details: Confirm arrival times, parking, and final costs.
Disassemble Furniture: Take apart large items for easier transport.
During the Move:
Take Inventory: Track all items as they’re loaded onto the lorry.
Supervise Movers: Be available to direct movers.
Final Walkthrough: Ensure nothing is left behind.
Secure Old Home: Lock doors and windows, and leave keys.
Guide Movers: Be present at the new home to direct furniture placement.
After the Move:
Unpack Essentials: Start with the essentials box, prioritising the kitchen and bedrooms.
Inspect Belongings: Check for damage or missing items; report issues promptly.
Clean New Home: Do a thorough clean before unpacking.
Set Up Utilities: Ensure all utilities are functional.
Change Locks: Consider changing locks for security.
Update Address: Notify banks, insurers, and other important contacts.
Meet Neighbours: Introduce yourself to neighbours and explore the community.
Register for Services: Register with local healthcare, schools, and other necessary services.
Enjoy Your New Home: Take time to settle in and enjoy your new space.
In conclusion, moving can be a complicated process, but with the right preparation and organisation, it can be made much easier and as stress-free as possible. By following our ultimate moving checklist, you can ensure everything is done promptly and efficiently, helping the move to go as smoothly as possible.
To start your stress free move reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll arrange a free valuation. Your first step in getting your house sold!
No one wants to think about winter when we still have the last of the warm weather of summer. For many reasons however, some of you may not be thinking of selling until after Autumn. Follow this guide to get the best out of your winter garden and therefore the best price for your home.
While gardens naturally shine during the summer, selling your home in the winter doesn’t mean your garden has to lose its charm. There are plenty of ways to make your garden sing even in the colder months. Here’s how:
1. Embrace Winter Beauty
Seasonal Plants: Introduce winter-flowering plants like hellebores, camellias, and snowdrops. Evergreens, such as boxwood and holly, can provide structure and a splash of colour when most other plants are dormant.
Potted Arrangements: Fill pots with winter-friendly plants and place them strategically around the garden. This can add vibrant focal points even in the depths of winter.
2. Create Warmth and Atmosphere
Outdoor Lighting: Good lighting can transform your garden, making it inviting even after the sun sets early. Consider installing fairy lights, lanterns, or solar-powered path lights to highlight key features and create a cozy ambiance.
Fire Pits and Heaters: Set up a fire pit or patio heater to demonstrate the garden’s potential as an outdoor living space year-round. Arrange a seating area with blankets to enhance the welcoming feel.
3. Tidy and Maintain
Cleanliness is Key: Sweep up fallen leaves, clean pathways, and give any outdoor furniture a good wash. A tidy garden looks larger and more attractive, even in winter.
Repairs and Refreshing: Fix any broken fences, gates, or garden ornaments. Consider giving fences or sheds a fresh coat of paint to brighten up the space.
4. Highlight Potential Uses
Year-Round Usability: Showcase areas that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Set up an outdoor dining area with weatherproof furniture, or stage a corner of the garden as a cozy nook for reading or relaxing.
Covered Spaces: If you have a pergola or covered patio, dress it up with outdoor rugs, cushions, and a small table to show its potential as a sheltered retreat.
5. Maximize Kerb Appeal
Front Garden Focus: Make sure the front of the property is just as appealing as the back. Tidy up the driveway, trim hedges, and place a welcoming planter by the front door. A well-presented entrance can make a strong first impression, even on a dreary winter day.
By implementing these simple tips, your garden can be just as enticing to buyers in winter as it would be in summer, helping to make a lasting impression and potentially boosting your property’s value.
Reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll arrange a free valuation. Your first step in getting your house sold!
Introduction Have you found yourself renting out a property due to unforeseen circumstances rather than a planned investment? You’re not alone. This guide covers 7 essential considerations to help you become a successful ‘accidental’ landlord.
Understanding Accidental Landlords An ‘accidental landlord’ is someone who rents out a property due to circumstances rather than a deliberate investment decision. Common scenarios include:
Moving in with a partner Inheriting a property Temporarily relocating for work Needing to move but struggling to sell a home
If any of these situations apply to you, renting out your property can be a good source of extra income. However, there are important legal steps to follow. Here’s a 7-step guide to help you start your journey as a successful ‘accidental’ landlord.
Step 1: Check the Mortgage
First, determine if your property has a mortgage. If it’s a standard residential mortgage, inform your lender about your intention to rent it out. Failure to do so could breach your mortgage terms, leading to increased interest rates, back-payments, fines, or even a demand for full repayment.
Your lender might:
Grant ‘consent to let,’ allowing you to keep your residential mortgage temporarily, usually with higher interest rates and additional fees. Require you to switch to a buy-to-let mortgage, which has different criteria, including rental income levels and loan-to-value ratios.
Consult a buy-to-let mortgage broker to explore your options and secure the best deal for your situation.
Step 2: Review Lease Restrictions or Covenants
If your property is leasehold, check the lease for any clauses that restrict letting or specify tenant types. Possible restrictions include:
Only owner-occupiers can live in the property Only single individuals or family units can rent the property Prospective tenants must be approved by the freeholder
Ensure you understand these restrictions and inform your prospective tenants accordingly.
Step 3: Seek Tax and Legal Advice
Rental income is subject to tax, and property tax laws can be complex. Consult a property legal expert and a tax consultant specialising in buy-to-let to manage your property and profits efficiently. Planning for future property decisions, such as selling or passing it on, can significantly impact your profitability.
Step 4: Check the Energy Efficiency Rating (EPC)
All rental properties must have a minimum ‘E’ rating on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). The government plans to raise this requirement to ‘C’ by 2025. Consider making energy efficiency improvements now, such as upgrading insulation, installing double glazing, or updating the boiler, to meet future standards.
Step 5: Consult a Professional Letting Agent
Even if you plan to manage the property yourself, a professional letting agent can help you navigate the complex legislation governing rentals. They can expedite the process of getting your property ready for rent and offer ongoing benefits such as:
In-depth knowledge of the local rental market Reliable systems for advertising, referencing, and maintenance Membership in professional bodies, ensuring high standards Acting as a buffer between you and the tenant in case of disputes
Step 6: Ensure Health and Safety Compliance
As a landlord, you must prioritise the health and safety of your tenants. Key obligations include:
Ensuring the property is fit for habitation Installing fire safety measures Conducting periodic gas and electrical safety checks Providing an effective heating system Addressing risks like damp, mould, and trip hazards Securing the property
Understand all legal obligations and invest in necessary changes to ensure compliance, especially if the property is an HMO.
Step 7: Consider Refurbishment
Successful letting hinges on attracting quality tenants and securing good rent. If your property isn’t modern or recently refurbished, you may need to invest in updates or new furnishings. Research similar rentals or consult a local agent to understand what tenants seek and make your property as appealing as possible.
Get In Touch
Letting a property involves navigating various legal and practical challenges. If you’re an accidental landlord looking to rent out your property, contact us for guidance on the local market and help to ensure your rental is successful now and in the future.
Reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll arrange a consultation to help you with your first steps to being a landlord.
Selling your home can be a challenging task, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it can be smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger property or downsizing, here are the steps you need to follow to get the best price for your home. This guide will walk you through the process of selling your home.
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Estate Agent
Start by finding a reputable estate agent experienced in selling properties in your area. Look for an agent with a proven track record of successful sales similar to your property. Research online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends and family, and consider visiting their office to get a feel for their professionalism and expertise.
Step 2: Get a Valuation
After selecting an estate agent, the next step is to get a valuation of your property. A reliable agent will offer a free, no-obligation valuation based on current market conditions and the state of your property. They will consider factors such as location, size, and condition to provide an accurate estimate of your home’s worth.
Step 3: Prepare Your Property for Sale
Before listing your property, ensure it’s in top condition. A well-presented home attracts more buyers. Spend time decluttering, cleaning, and making minor repairs. Hiring a professional cleaner for a deep clean and a gardener to tidy up the garden can make a significant difference.
Step 4: Set an Asking Price
Your estate agent will advise you on setting the right asking price based on their market knowledge and experience. Pricing your property correctly is crucial, as setting it too high or too low can discourage potential buyers.
Step 5: Market Your Property
Once your property is ready, your estate agent will handle the marketing. This usually involves listing your home on major property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket. They’ll also promote it through their website, social media, and email campaigns. The agent will arrange viewings and provide feedback from potential buyers.
Step 6: Receive Offers and Negotiate
As buyers view your property, offers will start to come in. Your estate agent will relay these offers to you and help you decide whether to accept, reject, or negotiate. If you receive multiple offers, your agent will guide you through the process to ensure you get the best deal.
Step 7: Agree on a Sale
After accepting an offer, the buyer will typically conduct a survey. Both you and the buyer will need solicitors to handle the legal process (conveyancing). During this time, your estate agent will help resolve any issues and ensure the process moves smoothly.
Conclusion
Selling your home can be straightforward if you follow these steps. By choosing a reputable estate agent, preparing your property, setting the right price, and marketing it effectively, you can attract potential buyers and secure the best possible price for your home.
Reach out to us today at 01706 356633 or enquiries@reside.agency, and we’ll arrange a free valuation. Your first step in getting your house sold!
Are you thinking about making a change to where you live? If you no longer need all the rooms in your home, you might have decided to downsize into something smaller. Or perhaps it’s the opposite – you need more space, in which case, it could be time to upsize into a new place. On the other hand, if you love your home and it’s in the perfect spot, maybe you’re toying with the idea of getting the extra room you need by extending.
A report from UK Finance found that people stay in their homes for an average of 20 years, and selling and buying does tend to take time, money and effort. So, before you set the wheels of change in motion, try to look ten years ahead and think about how your needs might change over that time.
Whether you’re looking for more or less space, the clearer you can be about what you want and need from your new home – and why – the easier it will be to narrow down your options and find something that’s going to suit you well for the foreseeable future.
So let’s explore some of the options out there and what you need to consider as you move up or down the property ladder. You might even discover a great solution you hadn’t thought of before!
Extending or converting your existing home
If almost everything is perfect about your current home, but you just need a bit more space – perhaps a room you can use as an office, a bigger dining kitchen or extra bedrooms – it might be worth seeing if you could extend or re-jig the accommodation.
Two key things to consider here are:
Would the cost of transforming your home be reflected in an increase in value? You might not have any intention to move in the foreseeable future, but at some point you may want or need to sell. So, once you’ve got a good idea of what changes you’d like to make, it’s well worth asking a local agent to give you their opinion on how much the work could add to the price of your home. We’re always happy to help with this – just give us a call on 01706 356633.
The best way to add value is to increase the amount of usable space in your home, perhaps by extending to add a reception room and bedroom above, or converting a garage or loft into living space. But bear in mind that your immediate local area will have a ‘ceiling’ for market values – that’s a price that a home is unlikely to sell above, simply because of the size and type of other homes around it.
For instance, if you live in a road of mainly three- and four-bedroom homes with one or two reception rooms, it might not be worth increasing your accommodation to five bedrooms, three reception rooms and a granny flat. If that’s the kind of space you need, moving to an area that has more homes of a similar size might be a better option. Again, come and speak to us to find out what’s likely to be the best investment from a resale perspective.
And remember that the best extensions feel as though they’ve always been there, so if you do go ahead with works, it’s advisable to choose an architect who has experience in designing for your particular age and style of home. While you may need to pay a bit more for the best solution, it’s well worth the investment to keep a good flow and feel to the home.
How disruptive are the building works going to be? If you’re converting the loft, it might not be too intrusive, but if you’re extending, then parts of your home might be unusable for weeks or even months. In that case, you may want to think about moving out while the improvements are being made. Bear in mind that if you have to pay for an alternative temporary home, that’s going to add to the overall cost of the project.
Something else to consider is whether you could gain the extra space you need by building separate accommodation in the garden – assuming it’s big enough. If what you’re after is an office or guest annexe, there are some excellent self-contained units on the market that you could have up and running in under a month. Going down this route could be easier, cheaper and quicker than carrying out works on your home.
With any building project, it’s important to check with the local council whether planning permission is required and what building regulations you’ll need to comply with. And bear in mind that it could take up to eight weeks for the council to consider even straightforward planning applications, so factor this into your timescale.
Moving up the property ladder
If you need a bigger home and you’re ready for a change, or it’s not possible to extend where you live at the moment, then you’ve got a pretty open book of options. There could be plenty of homes for sale that are the right size, but how do you make sure you pick the one that’s really right for you?
Well, when you’re moving for a specific reason, it’s important to be led by your head and not your heart. It’s all-too easy to fall in love with a beautiful kitchen, a fabulous view or the perfect family room, but if you let your emotions chip away at the square footage you know you need, you could end up running out of space again in just a few years.
This is where an estate agent can really help. It’s worth spending some time speaking to them before you start viewing potential new homes, to explain exactly why you’re moving and the number of bedrooms, reception rooms and other spaces you need. Then they can make sure all the homes you view at least meet your minimum requirements, and you can be confident that anything you’re tempted by already ticks the size box. Give us a call and we can take you through what we’ve currently got on the market in your range – maybe one of them will be the perfect fit for you!
And if you’re prepared to do some work to turn your next purchase into your dream home, again, be clear with the agents you speak to about how much of a project you’d be happy to take on, and they should be able to show you a variety of homes with potential.
Downsizing to a smaller home
At the other end of the moving spectrum is downsizing. Maybe you’ve spent years having friends to stay, entertaining and making full use of all the rooms in your home, but now that whirl of activity has come to an end, and you just don’t need all the space you currently have. You might be moving to a much more expensive area for work or lifestyle reasons, and your money simply won’t stretch as far, or it could just be that you’ve decided you’d prefer a smaller home.
If you are looking to downsize, you might also want something you won’t have to spend much time and money maintaining. So, even if you’ve enjoyed living in period homes until now, it may be time to consider something modern that has guarantees and warranties and will be low-maintenance and energy efficient.
It’s also important to think about whether you want this downsizing step to be your last move. If so, it’s worth planning ahead and making a wishlist of everything you think you’re going to want in your new home. Although compromises sometimes have to be made when you move, if this is your ‘forever’ home, it should be as perfect as possible – even if it takes a little longer to find.
Whatever your reason for downsizing, it can be the trickiest move to make. Even though it might feel like the natural ‘next step’, the reality is that you’re not going to be able to take all your furniture and possessions with you. So, as well as cutting back on living space, you have to work out which things you really want to keep and what won’t be making the move with you. There are plenty of house clearance companies and auctioneers who will be happy to value the items you’ve decided to part with; then you can choose what to include in the sale and what you’d like to sell separately. And make sure your agent has a full list of fixtures and fittings with prices, so they can negotiate with buyers and hopefully help clear one job off your moving list!
Whether you’re upsizing, adapting your current home or downsizing, we’re always very happy to chat through your options and lend our expertise to help you make the right move. Just give us a call on 01706 356633 or email us on enquiries@reside.agency and we’ll get right back to you.
As the various May Bank Holidays head our way people start to think about selling their house. The lighter nights and sunny Spring days seem to trigger a change. However they can also show up the things that may put off a potential buyer. Hopefully this blog post will give you some ideas to maximise your property and get it sold and quickly.
One of our early blog posts <<link here>>> dealt with the structural things you should look at fixing. This deals with a term much bandied about by the likes of Kirsty and Phil and Ms Beeny – staging. The following points will help you stage your house and get those buyers ready to buy.
1 Simple beginnings
A good place to start before you rush off to IKEA for a plate of meatballs and some soft furnishings called Kushuns, is to start by walking round your house. Start from the gate and follow the journey your buyer will take, hopefully the route you have set up to best show off your house. We all have that one friend who is blunt with their opinion, ask them if they would do the same and give you some feedback.
This will probably show up a couple of things which could be detrimental to the sale of your house. Firstly, the ‘clutter of your everyday life’ – we all have it – and secondly, some areas that could do with a deep clean and possibly a lick of paint.
2 Clean and paint
We’re not suggesting you redecorate your whole house but there are a few quick and easy things you can do to improve your chances of a sale. We’re pretty sure that one of the first things you will have noticed on your walk around is the front door. If its a painted door give it a nice new glossy coat of paint. Don’t go for anything too strong in colour, unless it is in keeping with the house or the area, choose something classic and neutral.
If you have a double glazed front door give it a good scrub with something non-abrasive. There are some excellent caravan cleaners which work a treat on uPVC. Whilst you are at the front door don’t forget the step, mats and porch if you have them. Nothing says neglected property like a threadbare welcome mat or a porch you can barely move in.
If any of your rooms are on the small side or painted with a dark colour or north facing, give the walls a quick coat of a bright neutral colour, a slightly warm shade if you are painting a north facing room.
This will always make a room look bigger and brighter, it also allows buyers the chance to better visualise the space.
Finally, give the bathroom a clean, especially the grouting and shower tray.
3 De-clutter
Now you can get on to staging. De-cluttering doesn’t mean putting your personality in to storage, it does mean having a little less of it on view though. Anything you don’t use regularly put it in the loft or ask friends and family to store it. If there’s a lot of it then consider the short term rental of one of the ‘storage boxes’ that have sprung up all over.
Buyers need to see what the house would look like if they were living there, cleaning your clutter allows them to see the room in all its glory.
However don’t take out your personality, you’re not making it into a hotel, think more show home with some of your possessions added. Adding your lifestyle helps any potential buyer visualise their lifestyle in the space.
4 Bringing it all together
Now here’s the nice bit – time to add those finishing touches.
Light is great at making a space feel bigger than it is, so try adding lights, particularly to dark corners. In smaller spaces consider adding some simple mirrors, especially useful in narrow hallways.
Put fresh flowers in some of your rooms and an attractive bowl of fruit on the kitchen work surface. Whilst you are in the kitchen make some coffee or bake [make sure you tidy before they arrive], if you don’t bake, put the oven on a gentle heat and add a splash of vanilla essence to a baking tray – smells like you’ve just finished baking.
And whilst we are talking pleasant smells don’t forget the less pleasant ones. Remove things such as pet food bowls and cat litter trays and empty the bins. If there’s a smoker in the house, bowls of vinegar work a treat but it does take a few days to work.
If buyers are visiting at night during the colder months use some warm, reasonably bright, light-bulbs and light a fire if you have one or candles in place of a fire. Help them visualise how warm and cosy it would be to come home here after a long day at work.
5 Sell your house with Reside!
Reside are the fastest growing agency in Rochdale. Independent figures show we get 97% of the asking price and on average houses sell in under 6 weeks – some have sold in one day. Even if your house is on with another agent and it hasn’t sold then you should consider moving to Reside. We recently sold a house in less than a week, it had been on the market with an agent previously for over two years!
So, if you want to sell quickly and for a great price then you need to be selling with Reside.
Just go to our website
and book your free, no obligation, valuation now.
If you have any other ideas you’d like to share about staging a house then go to our Facebook page and leave a comment on the ‘staging’ post, the best one gets a bottle of summer fizz.
In fact we love all 365 days but what can you do with 130 days?
130 days is a long time. 3120 hours, 187,200 minutes, we will stop before we get to sound like an annoying hit record!
However, if someone could give you an extra 4 months of life you’d be thrilled, well here at Reside we can do just that! WhichMoney? recently discovered that the average length of time to sell a house in the UK is 191 days. With Reside you could have sold your house 130 days earlier. That’s 130 days to be in your new home, to have done the decorating, fitted a new kitchen, had 32 barbecues. A whole 130 days to relax having sold your house and moved into your dream home.
So Reside can not only get you in to your dream home but we can give you an extra 130 days in which to enjoy it. With this gift of time maybe we should put Jason forward as the next Doctor Who!
So, the sooner you list with us the sooner you get the extra time in your life.
As we always say we SELL HOUSES – 7 days a week.
Call us now for your free, no obligation, professional valuation to get your house sold!
