Getting the most out of viewings

Now you have signed a contract with an estate agent you need to get your property ready for viewings and give it the best chance of selling. First impressions count so put yourself in the buyer’s shoes and think about how you can enhance your property's appeal.

Consider its "kerb appeal"; the first thing potential buyers will see before they even get past the front door. Here are some things to look out for:

• Does the front of your property need smartening up?
• Could the front garden be tidier?
• Would the front door look better with a fresh lick of paint?
• Could the front windows do with a clean?

Look at the inside with a critical eye too:

• Keep it clean and tidy. De-clutter and use sensible storage. Potential buyers will want to visualise how they can fill the space
• Undertake any minor repairs that need doing so buyers will need to really try hard to find any negatives
• If you want to re-decorate, go for neutral tones, which will appeal to a wider audience
• Make your house comfortable, cool on hot sunny days and warm during the winter season
• Banish smoke or pet odours. Open the windows and try to keep it aired and well lit
• Bring out the best features such as fireplaces and use mirrors to increase the sense of space

Negotiating offers

Once you have received an offer, be prepared to negotiate. But remember, you don't have to sell to the highest bidder. A lower bidder might be better if they:

• Are paying cash (so don't have to wait for mortgage approval)
• Already have a mortgage "agreed in principle"
• Don't have to sell a property first (they could be first-time buyers or investors) or are in a short chain
• Can fit in with your timescales better than other buyers

Once you have accepted an offer you will probably be asked to take it off the market. It's your decision, but if you do, tell your agent that if the sale has not progressed after two weeks you'll want it back on the market.

If the property is not selling…?

• Ask your agent why they think it's not selling. What's the feedback from viewings?
• Can your agent 'freshen up' your property details on Sweet Home Realtors website with better photos or a more engaging description?
• Was the exterior photo clearly taken a long time ago in a different season? If so, ask your agent to take a fresh photo.
• Do you need to reduce the price?
• If a survey revealed a problem that led a buyer to renegotiate or pull out, consider getting repairs done.