The importance of first impressions and increasingly fussy buyers in a very competitive market, place sellers under great pressure to put their best foot forward when showing their home.
Here are some tips from Steve van Wyk, Seeff’s MD in Centurion to follow on show days:
· The condition of the driveway leading to the home is very important as this is the first thing that prospective buyers will see. Keep the driveway neat and tidy at all times and consider minor renovations before a show day if necessary. Ensure that all the paving is level and flat.
· The pavement in front of the home has to be neat and tidy and free of weeds. Unruly lawn and edges also creates a very bad impression.
· A well maintained and colourful garden adds to the appeal of a property and is a very attractive feature to potential buyers.
· A clean swimming pool with clear water is important. That being said the drought in Cape Town unfortunately does not allow for pools being filled up and prospective buyers will understand that.
· Never underestimate the general condition of the paint, but be careful about the colour you choose.
· Make sure the carpets are clean. Unpleasant smells, especially those of pets, can be detrimental on a show day.
· Light is very important. Open all your blinds and curtains to let natural light in and any decorative or track lighting should also be switched on.
· Ensure that the house is neat and free from clutter.
· Make sure the kitchen countertops are clean and hang fresh towels in the bathroom.
· Hanging mirrors is also encouraged on show days because prospective buyers can then literally “see” themselves living in the home.
· If you want to create a homely and cosy feeling, the smell of a fresh pot of coffee or freshly baked bread, the scent of flowers and background music are all winners.
Although there is a lot that you can do on show days the most important thing is to ensure that regular maintenance to the property is undertaken at all times so that there is no impression amongst potential buyers that your property needs “fixing” by the time you show it.
Repair things like roof tiles, leaking taps and gutters and replace bulbs in light fixtures and vanities. Something like an unpainted gutter or a loose tile on the roof can create the perception that there are serious and expensive problems with the home, while, in fact, it will only cost a few hundred rand to fix.
Ideally owners one should have a maintenance plan which is regularly actioned.
It is also useful to replace outdated fittings from time to time, like upgrading door handles, light switches and light fittings.
· Make sure the carpets are clean. Unpleasant smells, especially those of pets, can be detrimental on a show day.
· Light is very important. Open all your blinds and curtains to let natural light in and any decorative or track lighting should also be switched on.
· Ensure that the house is neat and free from clutter.
· Make sure the kitchen countertops are clean and hang fresh towels in the bathroom.
· Hanging mirrors is also encouraged on show days because prospective buyers can then literally “see” themselves living in the home.
· If you want to create a homely and cosy feeling, the smell of a fresh pot of coffee or freshly baked bread, the scent of flowers and background music are all winners.
Although there is a lot that you can do on show days the most important thing is to ensure that regular maintenance to the property is undertaken at all times so that there is no impression amongst potential buyers that your property needs “fixing” by the time you show it.
Repair things like roof tiles, leaking taps and gutters and replace bulbs in light fixtures and vanities. Something like an unpainted gutter or a loose tile on the roof can create the perception that there are serious and expensive problems with the home, while, in fact, it will only cost a few hundred rand to fix.
Ideally owners one should have a maintenance plan which is regularly actioned.
It is also useful to replace outdated fittings from time to time, like upgrading door handles, light switches and light fittings.