Tips for Selling Property Privately

The most important thing to remember is first impressions. Buyers will immediately downgrade a property if the front garden (houses) or hallways (flats/apartments) are littered. It only takes a few minutes to pick up some rubbish and put it in the bin.

If you can afford to spend a little money before you sell then we would recommend you decorate the property both inside and out, maybe even replace some carpeting in the entrance hall and living space. Make sure the colours you choose are light, like white or cream.

Remember, you may not like those colours, but you are giving the property a light and airy feel. Go to a show house and think about the feel you get when you first walk in. Another simple thing to do is put some fresh flowers in the living room.

If your bath/shower room has a shower curtain/door then give it a good clean or even replace it if you can.

Most people want to see a clean and bright property. It's that simple.

Viewings

When the viewers arrive, have ready for them your properties details. It only takes a minute to printout a few and it gives a good impression.

When showing viewers around always let them walk into a room before you. They get a better impression of space when nobody is blocking the full view of the room.

Have a fresh pot of coffee on the boil or even a vanilla pod in the oven, or even a few scented candles, smells like these make a property feel more homely.

Before they leave get their details, name, address, telephone numbers. Also, ask them what their buying position is, do they have somewhere to sell, are they first time buyers or are they investors.

Information like this can help you to decide on who to sell to if you have more than one offer. An investor or first time buyer can usually complete on a sale much quicker than someone who has still to sell their property.

Main points to consider

1. Keep the property clean and tidy.

2. Decorate if you can. (White or light cream colours)

3. Have a nice smell in the air for viewings, freshly brewed coffee, a vanilla pod in the oven, or some scented candles. Or even fresh flowers in the living area.

4. Take details about each viewer, name, address, contact details and buying position.