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The great spring selling season is almost here, and with three decades of selling experience under his belt, The Agency CEO Matt Lahood has six go-to techniques for getting top-dollar at sale time. Tried and tested, here they are:
1. Declutter
Above all else, declutter your home, says Mr Lahood.
“Creating more space and light is paramount,” he adds.
“Moving into the warmer months, you need to open up as much airflow throughout the home as possible.”
2. Most used areas
He also says to put extra focus on areas of the home used in summer.
“Particularly in family homes, maximise the garden and make it look picturesque.
“Re-mulch, relay turf, plant new trees—whatever it takes to make the garden look great. I also strongly advise hiring children’s play equipment, be it swings or slides. Children will immediately run to these and potential buyers will already feel at home.”
And remember, Mr Lahood says, the front yard is as important as the backyard.
“If you have a pool, make sure it is expertly cleaned and that the fencing is up to date. A new fence can add huge value and completely changes the look and feel of the garden.”
3. Gutters
Gutters are a big issue, says Mr Lahood, and must be cleaned.
He says that during winter, debris from trees clutter gutters and block water flow, not to mention become a fire hazard.
“If you are putting your home on the market and the gutters aren’t clear, this will be picked up in pest and building inspections. Additionally, make sure the roof is well maintained and if you have solar heating that it is in good working order.”
4. Choose your viewing times wisely
For example, when it comes to apartments, never sell a south-facing apartment in winter as it will be freezing.
“In general with apartments, you should make sure you have two viewing times, one when the sun is shining into the property and one at twilight,” says Mr Lahood.
“This way prospective buyers can see the property at its warmest and coolest—in summer this is key.”
Equally, if a home has a garden, show it when the sun is shining onto it; and again have two viewing times, with sunlight shining in and at twilight.
“West-facing bedrooms can seriously heat up and so choose a viewing time avoiding the peak heat.”
5. Style with a summer vibe
Mr Lahood says choosing summer colours and fragrances is a must.
“Use candles, flowers and music to lift the ambience at all open homes,” he adds.
“Remove heavy, dark furniture and make sure winter remnants like heaters are stored away. Air flow is always important, and if there is air conditioning, make sure this is working efficiently. If you are beach or park-side, choose artworks that mirror the surrounding areas.”
6. General maintenance 101
Tend to all those little jobs that are often put to the side, he says.
“Prospective buyers notice these details,” says Mr Lahood.
“This may include fixing broken gates, paint touch-ups and removing mould on pavers.”
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