While much of Australia continues to wake up to brisk mornings and endure chilly evenings, the reality is that spring is just around the corner – and that means the peak selling season for real estate.
The market mood is now swinging in a highly positive direction thanks to two interest rate cuts since February and a third expected this month or soon after. Values are rising at 5.6% a year and almost half of Australia’s suburbs in the cities and regional towns (44%) are more valuable than they have ever been.
The latest market survey for June found that values had risen month-on-month by 0.6% with Sydney starting to find momentum and Melbourne returning from a tough couple of years.
Market buoyancy shouldn’t lull you into a false sense of security.
You’re still going to compete for buyers. Providing them with a five-star presentation will give you the best possible chance to maximise the value of your home.
It’s a worthwhile investment of your time and energy because it’s probably your biggest financial asset.
If you start to prepare your home now, you’ll have the best chance of a wonderful selling experience. Here are 10 tips:
Deep clean – This is non-negotiable. Go beyond your regular clean. Think sparkling windows, gleaming bathrooms and kitchen, and dust-free blinds, light fixtures and fans. If you don’t have time to do this, hire a professional company. The cost is an essential investment.
Depersonalise: Take down family photos, personal keepsakes, religious items and anything specific to your taste. Aim for a neutral, welcoming canvas.
Curb appeal – Every agent will tell you first impressions are crucial. So, mow the lawn, trim hedges, weed garden beds, add fresh mulch and plant some colourful flowers or potted plants around the entrance. Pressure wash pathways, driveways and the exterior.
Get it fixed – Don’t give buyers a reason to demand a discount. Fix leaky taps, squeaky doors, chipped paint, cracked tiles, loose doorknobs and broken light fixtures. Small fixes can make a big difference to perceived value.
Brush up – If your walls are scuffed, marked or painted in bold colours, a fresh coat of neutral paint – shades of white or cream – will make rooms feel larger, brighter and appeal to a wider range of buyers.
Let there be light – Bright homes feel more inviting and spacious. Open curtains and blinds wide for inspections to let in as much natural light as possible. Turn on the lights when prospective buyers are inspecting the property. Add lamps to darker corners.
Highlight outdoor spaces: With spring comes a desire for outdoor living. Ensure the patios, decks and balconies are pristine. Arrange outdoor furniture to create inviting entertaining areas.
Perfect stage – Even if you don’t hire a professional stager, arrange furniture to maximise space, create clear pathways and define the purpose of each room. Focus on the living room, master bedroom and kitchen.
It makes ‘scents’ – Unpleasant smells (pets, cooking, damp) are an instant turn-off. Open windows to air out the property. Consider subtle, fresh scents like fresh flowers, a mild diffuser or even freshly brewed coffee to mask unpleasant smells.
Snap happy – When you’ve done all this work, insist on the very best photography and marketing. Most buyers see your home online first. High-quality photos and, if possible, a virtual tour or floor plan, will ensure your property stands out in a competitive spring market.