Estate agents should encourage sellers to tackle simple exterior maintenance and presentation issues before properties are photographed or opened for viewings, according to a former agent.
Laura Rich, property designer and former estate agent at Furniturebox, says relatively inexpensive improvements can help create a stronger first impression, particularly for vendors hoping to secure a buyer before Christmas.
Her recommendations include clearing clutter from gardens and driveways, storing bins, trimming overgrown hedges and refreshing tired front doors rather than embarking on expensive improvements.
Rich argues that presentation becomes particularly important where buyers are looking for a home they can move into without immediately facing a list of jobs.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
She says: “I learned very quickly as an estate agent that unless buyers are looking for a renovation project, which is less likely in the run up to Christmas, we’re actually pretty shallow and vain when it comes to our home.
“A home should look inviting and lived-in, but that doesn’t mean mess and disarray. Viewers need to be able to imagine themselves walking down your driveway, seeing the front of their home daily after work, and genuinely enjoying living there. It needs to look fresh and tidy to be appealing to buyers.”
Rich also recommends improving entrance lighting and using planting to make front gardens appear more welcoming, while removing broken or weathered outdoor furniture.
SELLER PREPARATION
She adds: “The LAST thing anyone wants when they’re buying a home is endless jobs to work through and pay for before you can even sit down for a brew in your new living room.
“Looks aren’t everything; subsidence is immediately off-putting and needs addressing, but the appearance of your home’s exterior is crucial as a first impression. It needs to look welcoming and not give buyers the immediate ick.”
Rich says simply removing visual clutter can sometimes make a bigger difference to presentation than spending money on new additions.
