Selling your Property in Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands

Selling your most valuable asset, your home, can be quite a daunting experience.

Here are some helpful hints on little things you can do that can make a big difference and make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Yes, there may be an element common sense in what we recommend you do, but a reminder of some helpful tips is always welcome!

First impressions

Our parents always told us not to judge a book by its cover, but for most viewers, this is exactly what they will do! First impressions are all important as your potential buyer pulls up outside the property so a well maintained tidy garden is always a good start and provides a neutral talking point to engage in with your viewers.  Make sure the wheelie bins are tucked away out of sight. Quite often on first entering your home, viewers will quickly decide if it is the one for them. We all know when something feels right, but there is no harm at all in adding to the ambience with the smell of fresh home baking or freshly brewed coffee permeating the air…far nicer than the lingering odour of last night’s curry. Be aware of cooking smells, perhaps lighting a candle or two. That may all sound a little clichéd, but it can make all the difference.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere is very important. You want to make your home as inviting as possible. Walking into a bright and airy home, perhaps with fresh flowers displayed and a welcoming fire or stove in the lounge will instantly put viewers at ease. Avoid a stuffy environment with washing piled up high in the utility room or mouldy football boots causing a trip hazard. 

Although a tidy home is advised, some sellers make the mistake of being too clinical. A house is, after all, a home first and foremost, so don`t be afraid to personalize your home to a degree.

Dressing the rooms

Make the most of the accommodation by dressing each room as you have described it in the sales brochure. Don`t be afraid to invest in matching duvet sets, scatter cushions and the like. Viewers like to be able to visualize how they themselves would fit into your home. Try to avoid clutter and take advantage of the property’s main features.

Think about pets

We all love our own pets, but not everyone is pet-friendly…and not all pets are viewer-friendly! Unless your viewers are dog-lovers, maybe ask the kids to take the family pooch for a walk and let the moggy into his/her favourite snug for the duration of the viewing. Clean the feeding bowls and empty any litter trays.

Relax

Finally, it is important to make viewers feel as welcome as you can. You might have the buyer of your house in front of you…the key to you moving upwards and onwards on the property ladder.  Be relaxed and allow viewers time to take a second look around the property on their own so that they get a chance to chat amongst themselves.  Have information on local services, school catchment areas and the like readily available if the viewers are not local to the area and engage them in conversation to strike up a rapport.

It can be quite a nerve-racking experience trying to make sure you say the right thing or act in a certain manner, so best just to be yourself. Most viewers will be nervous also, but the more viewings you do, the more relaxed you will become. In any event, in the current buoyant market, hopefully, the viewing will come thick and fast and before you know it, you will have sold your house and be looking forward to moving on to pastures new.

Contact our Estate Agents, Inverness, Highlands

For further information on selling your home please do not hesitate to contact one of our experienced agents here at Innes & Mackay Solicitors and Estate Agents.