Unused space could be the key to unlocking additional sale value. It sounds basic, but clearing your home of clutter and making the best use of space can help sell your home and increase its value. Many homes will have a space or room that’s simply used for hoarding items that don’t ‘go’ anywhere else. If this space can be cleared before a viewing, it can help prospective buyers see more potential in the house; if you can find an alternative use for it, all the better.
Jan Hÿtch, President of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), said: "If a buyer feels like they could make their mark on a property, or the property simply feels more spacious, it makes it a far more attractive proposition.
The benefit of effectively displaying your home and any available space should not be underestimated. This applies to the garden too, which is an extension of the home and often forgotten. The
NAEA’s top tips for sellers looking to realise the untapped potential of these spaces in their home are as follows:
Evaluate your space – Storage is often at a premium and before putting a home on the market it is always worth assessing areas that might be overlooked. De-cluttering rooms by building new cupboards and clearing out junk can help buyers see the potential of these often undervalued spaces.
Don’t stop inside – If you have a garden, cutting back larger plants and clearing unused garden furniture can give a better impression of size. As an ‘outdoor room’ a garden can benefit hugely from a considered tidy-up. Clean patios and a freshly mown lawn can also help increase the garden appeal of a property.
Repaint and revamp – Painting a room in light, neutral colours and updating the lighting can help turn an unloved space into a great selling point.
If it’s broke, fix it! – Re-grouting bathroom surfaces, cleaning marks on worn walls and replacing broken fixtures can really perk up a run-down room. It is also worth taking the time to ensure things like radiators and light bulbs are in good working order.
Sell with the professionals – When deciding on the estate agent to sell your home, always use an NAEA member such as London’s fixed-fee estate agent
OliverFinn.
Such firms will be able to provide the knowledge and professionalism required to give you peace of mind throughout the sale process. All members are also signed up to the NAEA’s client money protection scheme.
