How Much Does A Cluttered Presentation Affect Property Value and Viewings?

[ConfusedHousehunter2023]

We live in a one bed Victorian period mansion block in Zone 1.
Walking distance to one tube station and two train stations. Large beautiful park with ponds opposite the block separating it from the river. In summary, the location and the block are fantastic.

My DH has lived in this lovely flat for 20yrs and in that time decorated twice and new kitchen. We then got married some years ago and I moved in from my flat into his. We'd hope to be here not more than two years but I guess we can blame lockdowns although it's partly indecisiveness of where to move to.

So, we need to put our flat on the market asap but the issue which is the purpose of this post is that we're cramped and I feel this will affect the amount that's offered by potential buyers.

1. Too much furniture in the bedroom. I'll like to remove the standing wardrobe and chest of drawers to show the space as there's a large in built wardrobe with four large sections but there's no where to move the standing pieces to.
2. I would have liked a new bath tub as we currently have what I describe as an oval wide U tub which is dated. The bathroom could be changed but I love the tiles so I'm hesitant to remove those.
3. For the kitchen, I guess the spice bottles and appliances can go in a box and be kept in the car.
4. The dinning table is too large for the space it's in.

A similar property just came on the market at £27k more than what ours was valued at in May last year even though the space is a bit smaller as it doesn't have the benefit of the high ceilings we have and is on the 4th or 5th floor (no lifts) while we're on the 1st.

Apologies if I've given too much info which has distracted from the main gist I want contributions on.

Is it worthwhile getting a van and storage to move things out? If we do this we'll probably then want to paint our bedroom and hallway. The EA said it's best to leave it as is so that whoever buys can decorate as they wish as they'll put in a new bathroom.

If you are selling you dont want DVDs on display

There are people who can see past clutter and look at the bare bones of the property, and people who can't, to varying degrees. You have to cater for the ones who can't, as they need the help.

So yes, take out surplus items of furniture that hint at insufficient storage or cramped space. I would change the dining room table for a smaller one if you can, and take out some of your books so you have space on the shelves to add a vase or small pot plant. I love the look of lots of books but I do think it looks better to have say 60% books and 40% space with an ornamental item in.

I would freshen up with a coat of paint if walls are scuffed, but don't do anything bigger than that.

I’d say that books on bookshelves is fine but books piled on the floor makes the floor look smaller.

Thanks again everyone. I keep coming back to this thread for a nudge to get a move on and declutter!

once you get started, you will be fine OP, have lots of black bags ready, and go through the items, things you want to keep or donate. I was dreading it when we downsized, but once I started I really enjoyed it, it quite addictive, good luck.