6 tips for selling your home this summer

It was a wet start to June – but it now looks like summer IS well and truly here. And with longer days, sunny skies ahead and the UK population’s historical appetite for a summer move, now could be the perfect time to prepare for house for a sale. But before you an instruct an estate agent, there are some things to consider. 

According to The Independent, August is the most popular month for moving. Whether that’s due to better weather and school holidays, it’s hard to say – but statistics do point towards the fact that summer is a good season in which to sell. 

So, to help those considering a move in the coming months, here are six things that you can do to maximise your property’s appeal … and value.

1. English garden

There’s nothing more alluring than a well-kept garden in full bloom. And an English garden really comes into its own during the summer months. Even if your garden isn’t adorned with flowers, there’s plenty that can be done to make it look its best. In advance of welcoming your estate agent’s photographer, ensure that the lawn is mowed (extra points for stripes), it’s edged and that the bushes have been trimmed. A neat garden is a sellable garden, so do all you can to show it in its best light.

2. Dirty driveways

When you’ve lived somewhere for a long time, it’s easy to overlook things that might be spotted immediately by a prospective buyer. In our experience, the driveway and pavements often go unnoticed – and it’s those that accrue moss and weeds. Fortunately, it’s nothing that a spot of weeding and a power washer won’t fix. So, restore all concrete to its former glory by doing just that. You’ll be amazed by the difference it makes – and it’s well worth the effort.

3. Keep it clean

Everyone’s familiar with the term ‘spring clean’. But a deep clean isn’t exclusive to spring. And, if you’re selling a property in summer, then giving it a good clean prior to the photography – and keeping it clean during the viewing period – is essential. Remember, sunny days shine a light on those window smears and smudges, so make sure all windows are cleaned inside and out, and that the interior looks like a showhouse.

4. Minimum clutter, maximum value

When viewing a property, prospective buyers want to imagine their belongings in it – not see yours. We always advise our clients to remove any and all clutter before viewings, and certainly before the photographer arrives. A blank canvas not only enables those viewing your property to see all the property’s space, but also get a sense of how they would live in it. If there are bits and pieces everywhere, then it becomes a distraction.

5. A lightbulb moment

Firstly, do all of your lightbulbs work? If not, then we would recommend replacing them. Dark spots due to poor – or even a complete absence of – lighting make somewhere look shadowy and gloomy, which is exactly the opposite impression you want to give. Also consider the type of lighting, too. Whilst you may prefer warmer, low watt lighting, does it enhance your property? Try and take an objective view when answering this. If the answer’s ‘no’, then replacing them with brighter, higher watt bulbs may turn out to be one of the best investments you’re likely to make.

6. The great outdoors

Outdoor living is increasingly popular – certainly more so since the pandemic. And, with more people spending more time at home, outdoor space is commanding even more of a premium. Regardless of whether you have bi-fold doors that effortlessly connect your kitchen area to the outside, or a charming little decking area, make sure that your outside space gets equal attention when it comes to preparing the home. Outdoor furniture decorated with an array of cushions and blankets, a BBQ on show that screams outdoor dining and even a firepit all have the power to parade your property’s external potential. 

Thinking of a summer sale? Contact your local branch of Warren Powell-Richards to arrange a no obligation valuation of your property. Alternatively, find your nearest Warren Powell-Richards office here.