We have attached some information that we hope you will find of use, both in the preparation of your property for sale and also some futher tips once you have purchased your property.
It is important to prepare your property before putting it onto the open market for sale. That first viewer may be ready to buy and therefore first impressions count.
We have prepared a brief list of ideas you can use to ensure your property is ready for those all important viewings:-
Ensure all lawns are mowed and paths and pations are free of weeds and moss and free of any rubbish.
Ensure all fences, gates, sheds and outbuildings are freshly painted and in good working order.
Ensure windows and frames are clean and freshly painted. With uPVC windows and doors, again make sure that the frames are clean and for all double glazed windows, replace any misted panes.
Ensure paths and driveways are clean and free from weeds. Remove any oil stains that may be visible on the driveway.
All plants, trees and shrubs are trimmed and not overgrown, particularly those close to paths or driveways.
Start to pack all of your personal items. This allows buyers to see themselves in your property and not be distracted by personal items.
Pack away childrens toys and the breadmaker that's never used etc.
You need to provide a minimalist look whilst still giving the impression of space.
Time for a spring clean from top to bottom. Get rid of any cobwebs ! Make sure the bathroom is nice and shiny !
Ensure all walls,ceilings and woodwork are clean and freshly painted. If you are thinking of redecoration, try a light neutral colour as this makes the room clean and bright.
Do they need replacing or cleaning ?
Ensure that the home is free of the evidence of pets. When conducting viewings, ensure that pets are out of the way as best as possible, take the dog for a walk whilst a buyer views the house. Remember, some people are nervous of animals and possibly have allergies.
Ensure the tile grout and sealant are clean and free of any mould. Ensure all taps and mirrors are polished.
At Jones Estate Agents, we do not charge for accompanied viewings.
Some sellers prefer the Estate Agent and not the seller to conduct the viewing, but we believe many sellers are also very good at expressing what they love about their property and importantly - why they bought it.
Landlords and sellers of property are required to provide an Energy Performance Certificate. These certificates give a building a rating based on the energy efficiency of a property and also a recommendation of how this can be improved and also lessen the CO2 output of the property. These certificates provide an energy rating A to G similar to those seen on many other household goods bought today. These are carried out by a qualified energy assessor. Typical costs are around £70 - £100 but last for 10 years unless major renovation work has been done to the property.
There are many things that you can do to prevent property fraud and these include;
- Keep your contact details up to date with the Land Registry.
- Ensure that your property or land is registered with the Land Registry
- Put a restriction on your title.
It is always important to ensure you take legal advice before signing any documentation relating to your property. Please speak to your solicitor if you have any questions relating to this subject as Jones Estate Agents are not qualified to give legal advice.