It’s tough, keeping your house looking at its best when it’s home to a busy family.
Here are 10 things to do before you leave the house you’re marketing, to make sure it’s ready for whomever walks through the door. You never know, it could be the next person to live there! And even if it’s not right for that day’s viewers, it’ll be wonderful to come home to.
Shut up!
No, we’re not being rude: this is good advice. Close drawers and cupboards properly – no items peeking out and spoiling the order – and your house will look smarter for it. This doesn’t apply to internal doors: keep those open to create a more open space and invite people to enter every room.
Stand by your beds!
Always, always make your beds. First, it’ll make the room look bigger and tidier, instantly. Second, it’s less personal and far more pleasant for everyone concerned. Visitors to the property won’t feel like they’re intruding on your space, and your personal space won’t feel intruded upon. It’s a good idea to check for any personal items, including medication, and pop it away in a drawer.
On the surface
Keep surfaces and sides as clear as possible. Wipedown kitchen surfaces and round sinks and taps in both kitchen and bathroom to remove debris, toothpaste and hair. Toilet lids should be down, toilets flushed and a cleaning product applied to the bowl.
Bin and gone
Bins are often overlooked by owners, but noticed by visitors. Empty yours regularly, so even if you don’t have time on any day, it’s not stinking and overflowing. Line interior rubbish bins with bags (scented if you can), so you can remove the bag and the rubbish quickly.
Plump it up
Adding cushions are a great way to freshen up a room on a budget, adding colour and texture to existing decor. Don’t leave your room looking flat – give each cushion a plump: not only will it leave your furniture looking comfortable and inviting, it’ll add life to the cushion itself.
Common scent
As you leave your house, why not add a final touch with a room mist of your favourite scent, the one that your viewer will hopefully recognise – home.
