Preparing for an Open Home
I am selling a rental property and the tenants are making it very difficult for the agent to gain access to show people through and the place is always messy when they do. What should I do?
This depends entirely on your personal circumstances. Discuss your needs and concerns with your agent and they can help you with your chosen direction. Generally, however, if there is no urgency behind your decision to sell or changes to the market aren't imminent, it may be best to hold off with the marketing of the property until it presents at its best. Remember, however, that you must provide the tenants with the appropriate notice to vacate at the end of the lease and, after they have moved, you will not be receiving the rental income you would have. There are many things to take into consideration, such as a property with a residing tenant being more attractive to an investor, so speak with your agent about what's best for you.
We are selling my mother's house. It is full of furniture and nick-knacks. Agents have suggested we "de-clutter" the place but this will involve moving and storage costs. Is it really necessary?
"De-cluttering" a property is usually important because
- A first impression can be a lasting impression
- An excess of things can make a property look smaller than it is
- Clutter can take away from a property's ability to look bright and airy
- The presence of many personal items can interfere with a buyer's ability to imagine themselves living there
- Modern homes and décor tastes currently tend towards a more sparse presentation.
- Buyers can be given the impression that storage space is an issue for the property
Would making substantial improvements to my home prior to selling it be advantageous?
This depends entirely on your property and individual circumstances. Decorating such as painting a tired home can be worthwhile, and cleaning the interior, tidying the garden, etc., can increase the appeal of a property. However, if you are considering substantial work such as an extension to the home, a completely new kitchen and bathroom and putting in a swimming pool, the answer may be that you may not recoup the cost of major work, let alone make a profit. We strongly suggest that you talk to your local LJ Hooker agent and seek their opinion and advice. They will be able to give you information specific to your unique situation.
How important is the appearance of my house from the street in finding a buyer?
Street appeal can be very important when finding a buyer for a number of reasons:
- There is no "second chance at a first impression"
- Potential buyers may not inspect a property when they arrive, particularly on a day full of Open for Inspections
- People want to be proud of their home and may feel if they are not impressed by the outside, their friends, neighbours and relatives may feel the same way
However, a good agent and clever marketing can set the expectation of the interior above the exterior to encourage buyer interest.
My agent has strongly suggested that I spend about $2000 to carry out some highly visible "cosmetic" upgrades to my property, mainly painting a couple of rooms that do look tired. If I do re-paint, it may not be in a colour that prospective buyers like. C
Spending as little as $2000 on freshening up the paintwork and other cosmetic improvements can sometimes add much more than that to the price you will be able to sell your property for. Improvements of this nature may also mean you could sell the property much more quickly than would otherwise be the case.
Some people seem to have the ability to visualise what a home can look like when freshened up, but some can't and you do not want to lose these people. The safest approach to choosing colours is to pick light, neutral colours as they are most likely to have universal appeal and can give the property a bright and airy feel which many people are looking for.
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