When it comes to styling a home for sale, there’s a lot that homeowners do right.
Unfortunately there’s also a lot they get wrong and doing so can cost them big time.
Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid to ensure the best possible sales outcome.
1. Not moving out
If it’s feasible and within their budget, encourage your clients to move out completely.
Advise them to put their items in storage or move them to their new property.
A fully-styled, empty home often achieves the best sales price.
Remind them that once their home is on the market, it needs to be open-ready at any time.
If they stay, stress the importance of keeping the home neat and ready for buyers, who might need to view the property outside the set open times.
2. Leaving personal items
Inform clients to remove personal items like posters, family photos, and religious icons.
The home should appeal to the broadest audience possible, allowing potential buyers to envision themselves living there.
3. Not cleaning thoroughly
Emphasise the importance of a clean home.
Recommend vacuuming, hiring a professional cleaner, and ensuring the windows are spotless.
For houses, suggest an external wash and, for units, ensure hallways are neat and cobweb-free.
A well-maintained property attracts more buyers.
4. Keeping pets at home
If possible, suggest clients have their pets stay with friends, family, or at a pet hotel.
While many people love animals, pet odours, hair, and noise can be off-putting to potential buyers.
A pet-free environment creates a more appealing space.
5. Not decluttering
Decluttering is crucial.
Advise clients to clean out closets, kitchen pantries, and garages.
Buyers will look into storage areas, and overflowing spaces can create a negative impression.
It may make them think the property lacks adequate storage or functionality.
6. Ignoring the garden
Remind clients not to overlook their garden.
A well-maintained garden can significantly enhance the property’s curb appeal.
Recommend hiring a professional to trim hedges and remove weeds, ensuring the garden looks its best.
7. Neglecting carpet cleaning and paint touch-ups
Some homeowners think these issues are the next owner’s problem, but too many issues can deter buyers.
Encourage investing in carpet cleaning and paint touch-ups to make a substantial difference in attracting buyers and achieving a higher sales price.
8. Not engaging professionals
For the best results, advise hiring professionals such as real estate agents, stylists, or tradespeople.
Professionals ensure the home is market-ready.
If the cost is an issue, explore vendor finance or settlement finance options to manage expenses without compromising on quality.
9. Over personalising renovations
Warn against overly personalised renovations.
Bold colours, unusual fixtures, or unique design choices can alienate potential buyers.
Suggest sticking to neutral colours and classic designs that appeal to a broader audience.
10. Forgetting about lighting
Lighting can make or break a room’s appeal.
Ensure all lights are working and consider updating outdated fixtures.
Advise using natural light to their advantage by opening curtains and blinds.
Proper lighting can make the home feel more inviting and spacious.
By avoiding these common mistakes, your clients can present their home in the best possible light, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing the chances of a successful sale.
