We are in the middle of a heatwave here in Scotland and summer is always a popular time to sell your home. The market is still buoyant and according to recent figures, house prices were 8.4% higher in May than they were in the previous year. What’s more, you home bathed in sunlight will appear exceptionally bright and welcoming compared to selling your home during our dark, cold winters.
The market looks set to slow down as the effects of high inflation, the rising cost of living and increased borrowing costs take their toll. However, prices appear to be stable given that house prices over the last few years have been underpinned by high demand and a lack of supply.
According to Zoopla the market is set to slow down considerably towards the end of this year as the rise in cost of living looks set to continue, the fuel price cap will go up in October and interest rate rises could take place again in August. However, it’s worth noting that it is not predicted that house prices will fall.
So, it could be time to capitalise on the gains made over the last few years. Here’s how to best present your home for a summer sale.
Bright rooms
The summer days are still very long which is great news when selling your home. For those who can only view property in the evening, it means that you can still present your home to potential buyers in daylight. Make sure that your windows are sparkling clean and that you cut back any bushes, shrubs or trees that can block the light from entering your home. Pull back all curtains and blinds fully and if there are any dark rooms or dark corners of your rooms, make sure you still use a light.
Gardens
A well kept garden, balcony or terrace will be a huge selling point for your home. Make sure that any outside space is well presented, welcoming and laid out in way that can help potential buyers envisage socialising in the space. Use outside furniture to stage the area and if the garden is communal talk to the other property owners with access to the space to make sure it’s clean, tidy and presentable. Consider investing in shrubs, plants and flowers – if you are worried about leaving these behind plant them in pots that you can take with you when you move. Finally, remove anything that clutters up the area so that you maximise the sense of space.
Add colour
Bring the outside in by having plants and flowers in your home. A vase of flowers can transform a room and make it look and smell great. You could also consider good quality synthetic flowers if you want to maximise your spend. A window box on a shelf or windowsill can really give a splash of colour to the room – and you could even plant herbs to give the kitchen a lovely scent.
If you do want to add more colour, do this by soft furnishings, rugs, cushions and accents rather than a dramatic painted or wallpapered wall. Avoid anything too eclectic or it could be off-putting to your potential buyers.
Clean and simple
Make sure you remove any clutter to maximise the space available. Pale colours can also increase the sense of space especially when paired with natural fabrics throughout the home.
Clyde Property is a leading independent, multiple award-winning estate and letting agent with more than 30 years’ experience in selling and letting property in Scotland. Just call your local Clyde Property branch today for friendly, impartial advice on finding your next dream home.
