Top insider secrets to selling a house fast?

As the property market continues to suffer due to the influence of Brexit and a subdued economy, it’s never been more important to learn how to make your house stand out from the rest of the competition.

What sells a house?

When a prospective buyer browses property listings in a particular area, the decision to view or purchase is most likely both objective and subjective in equal measure.

Objectively, the house in question must be in condition – although this is examined by a chartered surveyor before purchase – and should have access to all basic utilities such as water, electricity and, depending on the location, gas.

The positioning and location of a house is also important. For young families, the need to be within reasonable distance of a local school with a good reputation is preferred. For older individuals, however, a location in a quiet neighbourhood may be sought after.

Of course, the house itself may tick all of the boxes from an objective standpoint, but this is always overridden by the subjective approach that most buyers take.

Ultimately, the features that sell a house are those that are immediately visible when a potential buyer requests a viewing. This can be the external façade, such as the brickwork and ornamentation; it could be the privacy of the back garden; it could even be the cleanliness of the property in general.

The most important factor to consider for a prospective purchaser is whether or not they can see themselves living there – and that’s why it’s important to prepare your home for sale in the correct fashion.

How do you get your house ready to sell?

As many professionals can attest, the state of your home when a viewing takes place can affect the likelihood of an offer being made. So, if you’re hoping to sell your house fast, it’s important to consider the following points:

• Ensure that your garden is free from weeds, the lawn is freshly mown, and any plants are visually appealing.
• Use a jet washer to clean the external walls from the build up of carbon and dirt.
• Keep all windows and window sills free from clutter and keep them clean.
• Keep the internal rooms as close to ‘showroom’ condition throughout the selling process so you can accept a viewing at short-notice.
• While it isn’t often necessary to decorate, a touch-up of paint, varnish and Poly-filla will always improve the aesthetics of the house.
• If you do have any garish painted walls, try re-painting them in a neutral colour such as white or cream.
• Keep all rooms and hallways free from coats, shoes and clutter.
• Ensure that the central heating is on when the viewing takes place – especially in winter.
• Make a list of local amenities that would available to the buyer if they purchased. For example, Post Offices, convenience stores and bars.
• When deciding on an asking price, look around and ask yourself “how much are properties on my street selling for?”

Biggest selling points in a house

The best-selling features of a house are not always within the control of the owner. For example, if you live in an area with higher than average crime-rates, this can easily deter a number of buyers and make the property lose value.

The same is true depending on the status of the home in regards to freehold. Due to the number of news stories in recent years complaining about the dubious nature of ground rent in lease hold properties, may buyers will steer clear of your home unless it is freehold.

As mentioned earlier, it’s always important to live within reasonable distance of certain amenities such as schools, libraries, coffee shops and leisure centres – few buyers enjoy the idea of being stranded at home with nowhere to go.

The important thing to remember is that if something can be changed for the better, and is within your ability to do so, make sure you do it.

Are you looking to sell your home? Why not ask National Homebuyers for advice, as we buy any house. Call 08000 443 911 or request a call back to find out how much you could get for your property.