How NOT to sell your house – two
PROPERTY sales are the single most important transaction weíll ever handle. The process can seem daunting and complicated, but donít panic. There are common sense ways to ensure you get it right.
Mistake Two: poor condition of property.

Hereís two words of advice for anyone planning to sell a house that isnít ready for sale or in good enough condition to be sold: forget it.

The best way to deal with potential buyers is to put yourself in their shoes. If you were looking to buy, would you be impressed with a property that was untidy, damaged or in urgent need of an appointment with paint brushes and wallpaper?

Letís start with the front garden. If this looks like Steptoeís yard then you might just be at the bottom of the long steep slope known as an uphill struggle. The same goes for graffiti on walls, or driveways proudly displaying vehicles which look as though theyíve served as knockabout props in an edition of Top Gear.

As the old saying goes, first impressions count, and what would be buyers see first will stay with them and influence their final decision to either make an offer or move on.

As well as general tidiness, think about the things you have on display in your home. You might very well be proud of your Manchester United banners and posters, but if your prospective buyer cheers for Liverpool or Arsenal…

Likewise, a collection of full sized cardboard standees from your favourite films or historically valid, but potentially controversial World War Two memorabilia, could also lead to one or two hurried exits.

Other selling gaffes include leaving the dishes unwashed in the sink, kids toys being scattered around or the family hound distracting visitors.

Being clean, well decorated and free of potential embarrassments is just the the start. The secret of getting a sale is to manage your home and garden by creating a favourable atmosphere and mood which will make buyers want to make an offer. You need to ensure your property looks big, bright, and inviting, a place of warmth and comfort. You need not just to be looking to sell property as a physical structure, but actually the concept of a loving home.

Always remember the The three Ds: de-clutter, dress and display. All can be achieved by careful positioning of plants, mirrors, lamps and rugs, etc. Itís all about light, shade and the contrast and balance between them.

Think about how furniture is arranged. The position and shape of items can create differing moods. Always remember that ìmore is lessî remove any unnecessary items.

Other tips include:
use soft fabrics to create a warm look and feel, i.e. wool, satin and silk.

if you have ornaments on display, ensure they are arranged in units of one, three or five.

Use curtains, blinds or other window dressings with simple designs.

ïenhance bookcases, shelves and fireplaces with tasteful, eye catching items to draw attention to the right places, but donít overdo it.