January is a great time to start thinking about a house move. Finding a new home can be an exciting process, but don’t forget about the practicalities of selling your home

You’ve probably thought about the need to clean up or fix that broken door, but what else can you do to ensure that your property sells fast and for the price that you want to achieve? Here are ten top tips that go beyond the normal ‘cut the grass’ and ‘bake some bread’ advice.

Pick the Right Agent

It’s obvious that the right choice of agent will be key to a successful sale. The Keywest team, for example, has unrivalled knowledge of the local property market and years of experience to ensure that your property dreams can become a reality in 2015.

The Price Is Right

This is not an option for everyone as it does have its risks, but if you like a gamble, consider putting your property on the market for ten per cent less than you believe it is actually worth. This will usually lead to a vast increase in interest and can often result in at least the real value being achieved.

The Closet Is Half Empty

Storage is one of the main things that modern house buyers look for, so do your best to maximise on the space that you have. One of the best tricks is to take out half of the contents of your cupboards (you can start your own packing early). Buyers are likely to snoop and, when they do, they will ‘see’ that you have so much storage that there is still space to spare.

Light Up Your Life

Good lighting can have a massive impact on the first impressions of potential buyers. Even cleaning your windows can have a positive effect on the ambiance of your home.

Let the Dogs Out

It may be inconvenient, but would-be buyers don’t want to put their foot in your cat’s water bowl or be knocked back by your dog’s unique odour. You may love your animals, but not everyone will.

Keep Costs Down

By all means put a fresh coat of paint on the walls or replace that broken tap, but don’t spend more than you will recoup from your sale. If in doubt, ask your agent for advice

De-Home to Sell Fast

Pack up at least a third of all your belongings. Buyers want to see ‘their home’ when they view, not yours.

Kitchen Aid

The kitchen is probably the most important room in your home when it comes to selling it. You don’t have to carry out a complete revamp but replacing unit doors and handles, for example, can have a massive impact on its overall appeal.

Be on Show

Keep your home ready for viewings at all times. You don’t want to miss out on a buyer because you have to put off a viewing so that you have the time to tidy up.

Put the Heat On

In the colder months, make sure that your home still feels warm and welcoming. You want people to stay for ever – not rush back out to their cars so they can get the heating on.

If you are thinking of selling your home in 2015, call Keywest on 0116 254 4555, we will get you moving.