Top 10 Tips for a Successful Viewing
So, you’ve got the ball rolling, your house is on the market, and your first viewing is booked – an exciting step! However, the real magic happens behind the scenes before the potential buyer arrives.
Preparing your home for viewings is one of the most crucial steps in the selling process. At Newton & Co, we know that first impressions are key to attracting potential buyers and getting the best possible offer for your home. Here are our top 10 tips to help you make your home irresistible to viewers.
1. Boost Your Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see, so it’s vital to make a great first impression. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, move bins out of sight, and jet wash patios or driveways. Consider a fresh coat of paint on the front door to give your home a welcoming appearance that sets the right tone.
2. Clean and Declutter
A clean, clutter-free home feels more spacious and inviting. Give your home a deep clean and remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that might distract buyers. Decluttering will make it easier for viewers to picture themselves living there. If needed, consider renting storage space for bulky items during the selling period.
3. Maximise Natural Light
Buyers love bright, airy homes, so maximise the natural light wherever possible. Open curtains, clean the windows, and add mirrors to reflect light and make rooms feel larger. Strategic lighting with lamps and accent lighting can also help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere during darker months or evening viewings.
4. Fix and Freshen Up
Tackle small repairs that could otherwise give buyers the wrong impression. Fix squeaky doors, leaky taps, and broken cupboard handles. A fresh coat of neutral paint can work wonders to brighten up tired rooms and make your home look well-maintained. These small touches show buyers that your home is move-in ready.
5. Highlight Key Features
Make sure your home’s best features shine. Whether it’s a large kitchen, open-plan living space, or a beautiful garden, ensure these areas are showcased to their full potential. Newton & Co can offer personalised advice on how to stage and style these key spaces for maximum impact during viewings.
6. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Setting the right mood can help buyers feel at home. Create a welcoming atmosphere by ensuring a comfortable temperature, adding soft lighting, and introducing subtle fragrances using scented diffusers. If you have a fireplace, light it for a cosy touch, and open windows to allow fresh air to circulate before the viewing.
7. Limit Personal Items
While it’s important to make your home feel lived in, buyers need to be able to envision themselves in the space. Remove personal items such as family photos and replace them with simple, neutral décor. Add fresh flowers, tasteful artwork, or stylish furniture to help create an inviting, neutral environment.
8. Style the Space
Use thoughtful styling to create an aspirational lifestyle for buyers. Set the dining table with your best tableware, arrange cushions and throws to create cosy seating areas, and use mirrors to reflect light. Newton & Co offers expert staging advice or can even provide an in-house service to help you create the perfect look.
9. Ensure Parking Convenience
Don’t overlook the importance of parking on the day of the viewing. Make it easy for buyers by ensuring there is convenient parking close to your home. If possible, reserve a space for them to avoid any inconvenience. This small gesture can make a big difference in creating a positive experience from the start.
10. Pet-Free and Fresh
As much as we love our pets, not everyone will feel the same. To avoid any distractions or allergies, arrange for a neighbour or family member to look after your pets during the viewing. Make sure to air out the house and remove any pet odours beforehand by using scented candles or diffusers.
By following these 10 tips, you can ensure your home is presented in the best possible light, increasing your chances of a quick sale at the right price. First impressions count, and these small, thoughtful touches can make all the difference.
For personalised advice on how to prepare your home for viewings or to learn more about our staging services, contact Newton & Co today at 01204 329975 or email us at info@newtonco.co.uk. We’re here to help you through every step of the selling process.