“Good Morning Mr A, it’s Judith from XYZ estate agent, we have someone who wants to come and view your property” “Wow that’s fantastic – when do they want to view?” “Actually they are in the office with me now and they’re very keen to view, they have already accepted an offer on their property and they need to be out in six weeks, can I bring them round in 20 minutes?” Pause. “Er yes, no problem.”
Have you ever had the phone call from the estate asking if they can show someone round straight away? My reaction in these circumstances has always been to say “yes” if I possibly can, after all you want to take advantage of the viewer’s enthusiasm and they might get cold feet if they have to wait. Here are 5 simple tips for when you are short of time to prepare for a viewing.
Bedrooms
For a start always make the beds when you get up – simple and it only takes a few minutes but once it’s done it’s done and you don’t have to worry. Keep a set of pristine bedding specifically for viewings and even better if you are able just to switch duvets rather than have to change covers. In the master bedroom in particular, white bedding looks classy and creates the boutique hotel feel. It also means that you don’t have to worry about a clash with curtains or accessories
Bathrooms
Keep a set of brand new fluffy towels to hand that you can substitute for the ones in everyday use. Again I am a fan of white, and invest in the best quality you can afford. Have a box or some kind of storage that you can put all your everyday toiletries in and put it away. Instead put out some high quality products. Wipe round the sink and the bath and do not forget to put the toilet seat down.
Kitchen
It’s tempting to let the washing up pile up, especially when you are in a rush first thing in the morning, but if you do it after each meal and rinse the mug after you have had a cup of coffee then again it’s out of the way. Put things straight in the dishwasher. Although viewers will open cupboards to have a look, they tend not to open the dishwasher. As a minimum, stack all dirty crockery by the sink so that at least if that call comes in all you have to do is the actual washing up and you don’t have to worry about rushing around trying to locate all the dirty cups and plates. Wipe down worktops and the sink and taps.
Throughout
Hoover – a quick whizz round with the hoover keeps the house looking prepared. This is especially true if you have pets. Tidy up – if it is difficult to maintain a tidy house, have something like a storage crate that you can pile stuff in and then put that in the boot of the car. I would avoid hiding things behind cushions and remember not to overfill cupboards. If you have pets do not leave beds, litter trays or food bowls out.
Be Prepared
Perhaps my top tip is to be ready for viewings. If you keep on top of maintaining a clean and tidy house then there is less to do if you have a last minute viewing. Hang up clothes (or put them in the laundry basket) immediately you take them off, have a basket at the foot of the stairs for items that need to go upstairs and take a look around last thing before you go to bed. If you have children encourage them to put their toys away when they have finished playing with them. It takes discipline to keep a house looking tidy I know, and you might need to get up 10 minutes earlier in the morning, but these simple tips can make all difference. Next time you get the call you can say “yes” with confidence and not panic.
If you need advice on getting your home ready to sell, call me on 07745 876182 or email me at judith@homestyle4u.com. I’d love to help you sell. I cover Wirral, Cheshire and the North West.