There are lots of things that can convince buyers that your home is not for them. While some of them are out of your control, there is also plenty you can do to make your property look and feel enticing. Here we look at some of the most common issues that can put off buyers, along with some suggestions about what you can do to improve them.
Cluttered rooms
Clutter is something that could prove to be a quick turn off for buyers. It’s harder for buyers to imagine themselves living in the property if all the flooring and surfaces are filled with items.
A messy and disorganised home is not appealing, so before you start organising viewings, get round to clearing things up so there is not so much clutter lying around. Throw away the things you don’t need, put items in cupboards and drawers, and if necessary, rent a storage unit to keep things safe and out of harm's way until you sell up.
Kerb appeal
Most buyers will decide whether they like your home within a matter of minutes. And that starts from the moment they arrive at your front door, which is why it’s important to make a quick and impactful impression.
Paint the front door, fix the door furniture (if needed), tidy up the path, clear away any clutter, mow the lawn and organise the rubbish bins. Make buyers feel they are about to walk into the home of their dreams by setting the tone as they approach the front door.
Signs of damp
Nobody wants to live in a home that has damp growth, as not only can it ruin the décor, but it can also affect the integrity of the property structure and become a serious health hazard. If you have any damp patches or stains on the walls, ceilings, or windows, get these treated by a professional. The sooner you can get these done, the less expensive it will be, and then you can redecorate the space once the problem has been resolved.
Temperature on first visit
As we mentioned with the kerb appeal aspect, the first-time experience inside your home is equally as important. Not only does your home have to look enticing enough to spark the buyer’s imagination, but they also need to feel comfortable as they walk from room to room.
The temperature of your home can influence a buyer’s perception of the property, as it can give them concerns about the insulation. If it is too cold, they may walk away thinking it could cost them a fortune in heating bills, whilst if it is too hot, there is every chance they will think it could be unbearable to live in during the summer.
Set the temperature at a moderate level before any buyers arrive, so it feels comfortable to walk around in and people won’t start to sweat or need to layer up as they walk from room to room.
Lack of Storage
Every buyer will be keen to see how much storage space is available in the property. Some need more than others, but either way, it’s always a key consideration when it comes to buying a property.
If your home is struggling for storage space, there are a few things you can do to make things more appealing to buyers. As we mentioned earlier, try to declutter as much as possible to remove any unwanted or unneeded items that are taking up valuable space around your home.
Investing in some smart furniture is another option, such as tables, ottoman seats, beds and sofas that also offer hidden storage spaces. Shelving is another good way to free up some extra storage space, whilst also adding a practical and eye-catching feature for your home.
Leasehold issues
If you are a leaseholder, it means you are effectively renting the land from anywhere up to 999 years, depending on the specifics of your agreement.
Ideally, your lease will be above 90 years as buyers tend to avoid properties with shorter leaseholds. If your lease is already below this level, it is good to make enquiries about extending it or whether you can buy the freehold (dependent on certain criteria).
Poor garden
Gardens are features that should not be underestimated when it comes to selling your home. A well-kept garden can make your property look more attractive and can also be used to increase the sale price.
You don’t have to be an avid gardener to make the most of it. But provided it is kept in good condition, without any clutter, weeds, broken fences, or an overgrown lawn, it could be the thing that convinces a buyer to make an offer.
If you’re looking to sell your property but not sure how to avoid these issues or where to start, contact our team today to discuss your options.