_First impressions - how to sell your home fast

Whether a small apartment or country estate, when it comes to selling property the same principles apply.

Keep it neat, keep it tidy and if in doubt, keep it out of sight. Having  sold a fair few properties over the years, our expert property agents outline steps that you can take to make a lasting impression that may help you snag that all-important offer. 

1. A tidy and welcoming entrance will ensure your viewing gets off to a good start. Keep your front entrance swept clean and repaint the front door of your property. Replace a worn doormat with a new, inexpensive one and plant some hanging baskets or flower pots. Keep your car out of exterior photos – this gives the impression of a quiet street.

2. Minor improvements such as replacing rusty taps, updating door handles and putting out new towels and rugs before viewings can freshen up a home in no time. Unless your agent advises it, there is no need to undertake major renovation work at this stage.

3. Keep your pets out of the home on viewing days. Remove litter trays and animal cages and ensure your home is ventilated to dispel pet odours a couple of hours before a viewing.

4. Fresh flowers instantly lift a property. Put out new arrangements in the kitchen and master bedroom for colour and fragrance. Similarly, scented candles will ensure that the surroundings are welcoming and pleasant for viewers.

5. Outdoor areas hold huge appeal for potential buyers, so as well as weeding, trimming and replanting any sparse flowerbeds, demonstrate how your garden areas can be used as extensions of living space. You could set up outdoor dining furniture and ensure that lawns are mown.

6. Wear and tear is inevitable, and while you may not notice scuff marks or peeling window-frames, your potential buyers will. An afternoon of paint touch-ups and replacing broken light bulbs will be time well-spent.

7. Viewers are often keen to check water pressure and plumbing. Clean shower heads and plugholes, and ensure your boiler is in good working order before viewings start.

8. If you have a spare room that isn’t in use, show its potential by adding affordable furnishings. Large areas of unused space, such as landings or hallways could be maximised by adding a comfortable armchair and a reading table with neatly stacked books or magazines.

9. Strike the right balance between having too many personal items on show and too few. You want viewers to be able to picture themselves living in your property, but without alienating them with too many family photographs and mementoes, or excessively individual interior design. Neutral colours with some tasteful accents and decorations are a good compromise.

10. Organise your storage spaces. Even if your property has ample storage, untidy cupboards or full-to-brimming boot rooms will give the impression that you don’t have enough space. Storage is one of the most critical things buyers look for, so ensure you show off the full potential of your home.

Thinking of selling? Knight Frank's network of offices cover the whole of the UK. Request a free valuation or for general property selling help, contact your local Knight Frank office.