In This Guide
choosing an agent
Conveyancing
Holding viewings
Negotiation
Planning your sale
Prepare your home
1. Introduction
2. Running repairs
3. Redecorate
4. The external view
5. Clean...
6. ...and tidy
7. Sensual blitz
Seller's Packs
Selling at auction
Selling in Scotland
Selling privately
Selling your home
Using estate agents
Prepare your home
...and tidy
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Making good use of the space in your home is important, so keep in mind the number one rule - 'Avoid clutter'.
The main benefit of having a good tidy up - aside from lessening the risk of potential buyers tripping over your belongings - is that storage space generally looks bigger and more useful if it is only half full, rather than brimming with useless items that get in the way of seeing just how much space there is.
It can be a good idea to have a pre-sale clear out of all the junk you no longer need. You don't really want to take it with you to the new house, so get rid of it early and eliminate some of the clutter. Get rid of every last bit of junk that is not going to be going with you when you move. Take it to charity shops, recycling centres or just bin it, but make sure that it is not getting in the way when people come round.
Anything that you do need to keep but don't really use should be packed away and stored out of sight, preferably in the loft or garage. Consider a short-term lease of some space with a storage company if your home is particularly full and you have nowhere to move things to.
Kids' rooms can be particularly difficult to keep as clutter free zones. Try to get them to keep the place tidy for a while. If they are too young or particularly obstinate, then you'll have to take responsibility yourself. Clear away as much as you possibly can. Put toys and games under beds, into cupboards - anywhere you can find to put them is better than leaving things lying around for people to trip over. If you are short on space, keep children's toys in the bright plastic stacking boxes that you can find at most DIY stores. These can also be used to move the toys when you leave.
It might not be a bad time to rearrange the furniture to make the space in your home sell itself. Why not buy one of our books on Feng Shui and how it can help.
If it all seems like a bit of a chore, here are 3 good reasons to get rid of clutter:
- Gives the impression that you have more space than in a cluttered property.
- It makes it easier to keep the place clean.
- You are going to have to anyway when you sell your home. Getting rid of it early makes the packing and moving process easier.
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