Ready, Set, Sell - Expert tips for preparing your property for the market

Getting your property ready for a sale can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation and effort, you can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Clutter: De-clutter your home. If you don't have time to go through everything immediately, put stuff in the loft or find a short-term storage facility. Fill cupboards rather than have things on display. Your shoe collection on each step up the stairs isn't the ideal greeting!

Paint & Update: Paint and update: A fresh coat of paint can help your property look more modern and updated. Focus on neutral colours that will appeal to a wide range of buyers.

Fix any damage: Take care of any repairs that need to be made, such as fixing leaky faucets, replacing damaged flooring, and repairing holes in walls. Consider making updates to your property, such as updating the kitchen or bathrooms, to increase its value.

Stage the property: Staging your property can help buyers see its potential and imagine themselves living there. Use furniture and decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Light: Light rooms look bigger than dark ones. Flood your home with light; open curtains and blinds to the maximum.

First impressions: Tidy your front garden. It doesn't have to be a gardener's paradise, just neat! Clean your windows, front door and any ledges. Home owners may not notice moss growing on the sill under the window, but a prospective buyer will.

Garden: An impressive (or just tidy) back garden can be a deal-breaker. Give potential buyers a reason to smile.

Bathroom: Get rid of any mould! This is a must. Clean shower doors and put the toilet seat lid down. Store toiletries and cleaning items out of sight if possible.

Kitchen: Keep worktops tidy and clean. Put washing-up away.

Pets: Whilst the majority of UK residents are pet-lovers, your potential buyer may not be, so tidy away any indications of pets in the house, especially for the photographs.

By following these tips, you can make your property more attractive to potential buyers and increase its value.

Good luck with your sale!

Find paperwork (not all are applicable to everyone)

1. Any HM Land Registry title documents

2. Any gas certificates completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer (or Corgi-registered pre-2009)

3. Any electrical check documentation (EICR, NAPIT or NICEIC) from a registered electrician

4. Certificates for windows - FENSA or CERTAS

5. Planning permission documentation

6. Building regulation completion certificates and/or builder's guarantee certificates for any work carried out

7. Any subsidence guarantees or warranties

8. Damp guarantees/warranties

9. Party wall agreements

10. Listed building consent for any work completed on applicable properties

11. Conservation area consent documentation (if relevant)

12. Any title insurance policies relating to the building taken out to solve title defects

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