VideoValuation - Helpful Hints

Although each home is different, some common rules apply. One rule is that:
"You never get a second chance to make a first impression"
From the moment prospective buyers pull up on the street, everything they see makes an impact on their assessment of your house. If you want to prepare your home for an Open House or Private Inspection, here are some guidelines to help you achieve a better first impression and probably a better result:

• Tend to gardens and lawns, preferably mow the lawn a couple of days before the inspection; dispose of rubbish, sweep the paths and store away toys and garden tools.
• Put all valuables out of sight
• Open the curtains and switch on strategic lights to brighten up gloomy spots before buyers arrive. Nothing improves the atmosphere of a home more than brightness. Let there be light!
• Make sure the home is well ventilated on a hot day and comfortably heated on a cold day to give a real feeling of cosiness.
• Remove stale air with room deodorisers, a bowl of pot pouri or open windows. Smokers and dog owners beware - nothing makes a buyer want to get out of a property quicker than stale air! Any home will be enhanced by the smell of a baking cake or freshly brewed coffee. These effects are often subliminal, purchasers don't always realise why they received such good vibes from your home.
• Place fresh flowers in strategic spots around the home for effect.
• Keep children and pets out of the way when buyers are in your home. Taking children and pets for a walk is often a great idea.
• Never get involved in trying to negotiate the details of the transaction such as price terms. Leave this to your agent. Negotiations can only be kept at a business level when emotions are not involved. Don't feel you should 'help the agent out'. Agents know the requirements of different buyers and which features of your home to emphasise. They are experienced and better trained to qualify purchasers and negotiate the best price.