Seller tips

[nwatty]

We are about to put our house on the market, what are the major things that put you off?

Location!

When all the bedrooms are tiny or the houses in the area are all on top of each other.

Personally I like to feel that I'll be able to move in and "live with" whatever is there until I can make my own changes. So bathrooms and kitchens need to be "liveable" - mouldy, really grimy etc would put me off.

Obviously neglected DIY jobs are off putting as they make me think the place has possibly been neglected and bigger issues may be lurking (but this wouldn't apply if I were buying a "project" so it depends on your market!)

Finally - declutter. Remove a load of stuff and then remove more. It is true that buyers should look past what is there, but many people can't or won't, so giving them a helping hand by clearing stuff away always helps.

Over-eager sellers conducting viewings. I don't have a problem with sellers doing viewings per se, but take a low-key approach: show potential sellers round and provide information, but don't bombard them. Then let them have a wander round on their own and tell them where they can find you if they have any questions. Be prepared to show the garage and outbuildings.

If you a really bold colour scheme, consider toning it down for broad appeal. Remove really personal things, but don't strip away homeliness completely. Remove smelly pet beds. Get someone to take the dog(s) for a walk when you have a viewing.

No viewings is a sure sign of being over priced. If you are serious about selling, price to sell. Don't be flattered by a high valuation from an estate agent.

From a house perspective, keep it clean and do the outstanding DIY jobs. It should help buyers focus on the house as a whole, rather than get distracted by something trivial.

I viewed a house yesterday and the smell of cigarettes was so revolting, I couldn’t concentrate on what needed to be done to improve the space. Also, 2 door handles fell off in my hand, which made me think what other maintenance hasn’t been done.

Good luck OP

Thanks! I think we have most of that covered! Hoping the estate agent will be doing most of the viewings while we are out at work so the toddler isn't running about!