When selling a property, presentation plays a crucial role in attracting potential buyers and securing the best possible price. Once homeowners decide to sell, planning the next steps are a key part of the process, as they must carefully consider how to showcase their home in the most appealing way.
Our DNG team members have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to showing your house, and just a few minor adjustments can be transformational, making your home look much more attractive and desirable to those looking to buy.
Decluttering is an easy win and if you tackle one room at a time, you can let go of items you no longer need, which will make your home feel cleaner and look more organised. Try starting with the high traffic areas like the living room and kitchen, as viewers pay the most attention to those areas.
First impressions always matter, so think about how the house first presents itself. The entrance is extremely important, so clear out shoes, coats and bags or anything else that might take a viewer’s eye for the wrong reason. Make the space feel open and welcoming from the minute the door is opened.
Family photos, personal items and anything of sentimental value are better cleared away for viewing. This simply allows the buyer to picture themselves living in that space, and personal items can distract them, possibly influencing their decision.
Making the most out of storage spaces helps showcase your home in terms of organisation. Cleaning out cupboards, wardrobes and drawers will help to make your home feel larger and more functional which is a key selling point for buyers.
If you have any oversized pieces of furniture, consider removing them as they can make rooms feel smaller, and most buyers find the spacious look more appealing.
Countertops, tables and shelves will present better if they are clear of any unnecessary items, like old newspapers, pens or post. Ask yourself if the viewer needs to see what’s on the countertop. If the answer is no, store it away.
Untidy cables and electronics can make spaces feel a little chaotic, so consider investing in organisers or tucking them away out of sight altogether, and, although every home has them, they can be an eyesore for some.
Giving your bathrooms a deep clean will only work in your favour; tidy, clean and clutter free bathrooms are a must. Scrub tiles, grout and countertops, and give mirrors and floors a good clean. Ensure that the toilet, sink, bathtub and shower are spotless, and make sure that there is no visible sign of water damage.
Clear the countertops or windowsills or personal items like toiletries, toothbrushes and make up and store them away out of sight. Organise cabinets and drawers and discard any items that are out of date, or not in use so that you can showcase ample storage. Remove any extra towels or bath mats, leaving only a fresh hand towel on show.
Lastly, limit products in the shower by removing all shampoo bottles, sponges and razors and consider having just one or two items.
A serene and spacious atmosphere in the bedroom will appeal to most buyers. Try to make the space feel neutral as this will allow buyers to envision it as a peaceful room, where they can picture themselves sleeping. Make sure that the bed is well made with fresh sheets and that there is nothing visible underneath it. Clear bedside tables and dressers of any excess items keeping only essentials on display.
Removing pet related items like dog beds, toys and feeding bowls will often work to your advantage. While some buyers love animals, some may be allergic or prefer a pet free home. By removing visible signs of pets, you create a more neutral and cleaner environment that appeals to a broader range of buyers. Make sure to thoroughly eliminate pet hair as it’s not for everyone. Don’t forget to ensure the garden is tidy and free from any pet-related debris.
Once you’ve thoroughly decluttered and created a clean inviting space, it’s ready for the photographer. A well organised home will shine in photographs and help to capture its best features, making it stand out.
Hiring a professional photographer is one of the best investments you can make in the selling process. High quality photos are often the first thing buyers see when browsing listings online, and they can be pivotal in whether someone decides to view the property or not.
Professional photographers know how to capture your home in the best light, using techniques that highlight the most appealing features, making it stand out in a competitive market. A well photographed home can attract more attention, potentially leading to quicker sales and higher offers.
They can also offer valuable tips for preparing your home before the photoshoot. One of the common recommendations is making sure that your house is well lit, and photographers suggest opening all blinds and curtains to let in as much light as possible which in turn creates bright images. They may also advise on turning on all interior lights to add warmth and to balance to darker spaces.
Photographers may recommend some minor adjustments like moving the furniture around to create a better flow, or indeed adding decorative touches like a fresh vase of flowers which enhance the visual appeal of the room.
With their unlimited expertise, a professional photographer can ensure that every shot showcases your property at its best, increasing your chance of making a strong impression on potential buyers.
Great photos make a strong first impression and can set your listing apart from the competition. You are more likely to generate interest, schedule viewings and ultimately receive better offers. Showcasing your home in the best possible light can turn a casual online viewer into a serious buyer, and with a well-prepared home and appealing photos, we will help you on your way to a successful sale.