Selling - The small things make all the difference

It is important to realise that buyers never negotiate a price for a home and then decide if they want to live there. Before price becomes a relevant issue, buyers will decide if they like the home and whether or not it suits their needs.

It is often the smaller things that make the difference when you put your Palmerston North property on the market. Real estate salespeople will advise on where to focus your efforts. Below are suggestions on how to prepare your property for sale and maximise your return on your property.

11 WAYS TO MAXIMISE YOUR RETURN

1. Remove the clutter. You end up walking through tracks of furniture in living areas that make the house feel hemmed in and small. Be ruthless and get rid of all the non-essentials. You are not only preparing for a move in a few months' time, but aiming to show your home off to its best advantage.

2. Fix and remove any signs of water damage. Even if you remedied the situation several years ago, tell-tale water trails give buyers the perception there's still a problem.

3. Clean the exterior with a high-pressure waterblaster and create a good impression from all aspects. There's often one side of the house that doesn't get the sun as much as the others.

4. Make outdoor areas appear inviting. More people see value in houses that offer outdoor living on terraces, decks, balconies and in courtyards. Spartan neglected outdoor living areas are unwelcoming.

5. Tidy and mulch garden areas. Neat landscaping is really important, particularly around outdoor living areas. It makes as much impact as kitchens and bathrooms.

6. When selling a new home, buyers like an up-to-the-minute kitchen and bathroom. However, if people are buying an older home with a view to improving it themselves and adding value, as long as these areas are serviceable, they're fine. Don't bother putting a new bench in an old kitchen.

7. Musty areas need to be well-aired and dehumidified before the open home. Burning a perfurmed or citronella candle in the musty area can help get rid of odours. Bunches of fresh flowers and bowls of fruit add colour, perfume and impact.

9. Clever buyers will check behind the curtains for mildew. Get drapes dry-cleaned and spruced up ready for the open home.

10. If you're unhappy with your furniture or art, then consider renting. It's a smart thing to do and more and more people are taking this option when selling. Several companies offer attractive furniture, accessories and art for short term hire. They can style your home to maximise its impact during the open home period. Talk to your agent for details on these companies.

11. Put the brightest light bulbs you throughtout your property-to make it bright. This can make a huge difference to the appeal of the property.

Presentation is essential. It is vital that you make a lasting impression in the buyer's mind.

Barry McKean
Bayleys Residential Specialist