Within the first 60 seconds a significant amount of people viewing your home will have already made their mind up if it’s the place for them or not so it’s up to you to make that minute count.
Living in your property day in, day out it’s very easy to become blind to some basic things that can leave a lasting impression on buyers as they first approach your home and step through the doors.
Here are our top tips to making the most positive impact you can in the first 60 seconds to help get them hooked on your home!
Arrival
When potential buyers arrive at the property you firstly want to be able to showcase any valuable space outside which includes parking! Don’t fill the driveway with your cars leaving them to fumble around or wonder where to park, keep your cars down the road, in the garage or parked round the corner for viewings to give the best very first impression.
First Glances
Upon first glance depending on your property the first things they will see before making their way to the door are the driveway, paths, garden and outside space so here are some checklists to go through.
- Ensure driveways and paths are clear of weeds, swept and clean.
- If your garage door is looking a little faded but your budget doesn’t stretch to a new one, then a weather safe can of paint and a brush can cost less than £20 and make all the difference.
- Dustbins should be kept out of sight where possible or tucked away neatly.
- You might have pets or children but there is no need for this to be visible from the outside, ensure all toys and animal droppings are cleared up!
- We know you love your pet but a lot of people don’t like dogs and animals or have allergies so don’t leave your guests to be jumped on. Ensure pets are safely tucked away or taken out for walks during viewings.
- Wooden fences, gates, front doors and porches should be in good condition and if necessary a quick lick of fresh paint in these key areas can really bring the front of the house to life.
- Keep all grass, trees, hedges and plants cut or neatly trimmed.
- The windows, front door, exterior lights and house numbers etc. should be clean.
- If you have a small front space or one that is lacking grass and greenery, then brighten it up with some cheery and modern plant pots and attractive flowers.
This might seem like a long list but these are all extremely cheap and effective ways that you can completely change the impact the front of your property has and the first impression it makes.
A Warm Welcome
The weather is something that is completely out of your control so you will need to adapt to the time of year and ensure that visitors are greeted in the right way.
In colder months’ people should be walking into a cosy, warm home so ensure you allow plenty of time ahead of viewings to heat every room thoroughly. If you have a fireplace, then show it off and make the most of it – everybody loves a roaring fire.
A Grand Entrance
You don’t have to have a huge hallway to create a grand entrance – you just need to make the most of the space you have!
An entranceway should have nothing on the floors, no shoes on display, clutter or unnecessary furniture so have a clear out if you need to and rethink the space. Store shoes and coats in cupboards or if you have room then an attractive coat rack can be a nice feature.
The entrance to a home should be light and bright so paint it that way if needs be. Add some ice white led bulbs to lighting, feature mirrors on walls to give the illusion of more space and some nice fresh flowers.
Don’t forget … the smell. If you have pets, people shouldn’t be able to tell. Don’t cook curry or strong smelling foods for dinner the night before and try not to be tempted to overpower everything with synthetic smelling sprays. Linen scented fabric sprays, candles, wax melts and diffusers are great ways to achieve a nice smelling home.
If you are looking to sell your property, then these top tips are a great way to get buyers hooked on your home in the first 60 seconds!
Contact us at Keystones Property Estate Agents today to find out how we can help you!
