Spring is one of the most popular times to buy and sell properties in Australia.
Flowers are in bloom, the weather starts to warm up and potential buyers are looking for their new home to move into by Christmas.
It may only be winter, but if you’re considering putting your property on the market this spring, there are a few things you can do now to prepare your home.
Here’s our list of the top ten things you should be doing now to get your home ready for a spring sale.
And in case, we’ve also prepped you for how to ready your home for a winter sale as well!
1. Give your property an early “spring clean”
From windows to inside cupboards, a top to bottom clean is a great way to prepare your home for sale.
2. Give the gardens a once over
This includes weeding, removing dead plants, planting some new plants in dead spaces and adding a layer of mulch to ensure your home looks as good on the outside as it does on the inside.
3. Look after those long-term maintenance issues you’ve been putting off
Fix up any peeling paint, get the carpets cleaned professionally (or replaced if they are worn through), replace cracked tiles, clean grout and replace any roof tiles that are cracked or missing.
4. Declutter by donating or disposing of any items you no longer need
This could mean getting rid of paperwork, kids’ toys and unused furniture.
Consider whether you need to replace older furniture or if you transform pieces by using throw rugs or cushions to give your home an affordable “makeover”.
5. Open the windows to get the fresh air flowing through the house
This will help get rid of any smells that may have built up over winter.
Keep an eye out for any mould or mildew that may have built up on windows, window frames, ceiling fans or lights and give it a good clean.
6. Get a pest spray done
This is especially so if you haven’t had one for a while.
All the decluttering and cleaning will disturb pests such as cockroaches that may have been in hiding.
It’s a good idea to get this done now, so that when it comes time to open your home for inspections, you don’t need to worry about potential buyers finding dead insects.
7. Consider engaging a property stylist
Have you already moved out of the property or is it currently tenant-free?
If so, consider having a property stylist come in who can ensure your home is looking it’s best with furniture and accessories for professional photos and open homes.
8. Get a second opinion
If you have a friend or family member who you know doesn’t hold back on giving their honest opinion, why not ask them to come over and cast their eye over your home?
They may be able to pick up on things you’ve missed, such as a cracked tile in the bathroom.
9. Approach some local real estate agents and ask them for an appraisal
You’re best to get at least three to four appraisals so that you get a good idea of where your home is sitting in the market and the prices you should be looking at.
10. Get your home picture-ready
Once everything is clean and presentable and you’ve signed a contract with a local agent, it’s time for photos. It’s always good to do a quick once over prior to photos, ensuring everything is tidy, clean and in place.
Selling a home can be a stressful time for many, but with some early preparation and careful planning, your home will be in tip top shape and may just fetch a much higher sale price than you ever expected.
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