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Property valuations are often decided upon pretty objective and comparative terms, or at least, that’s what real estate agents want you to think.

There’s a reason different agents and companies will define your house at different market values (even if they’re within a similar range) – and that’s because they can never really know how much someone is actually going to want to pay for it. They just guess based on logic and the history of the area or similar properties.

They can never account for someone being mesmerised by your home, its design, or their appreciation of your developments. Though again, good design isn’t a guarantee you’ll get more for your house, and most buyers will look past the furnishings and trimmings you put in place anyway.

However, that doesn’t mean they won’t be influenced by it. A home that’s well-trimmed, properly dressed, and cared for is going to seem like a more worthy place to live than somewhere unloved and unkempt.

So, in this post, we’ll discuss how the perception of your home condition matters, and some measures to put in place before you start viewings:

Declutter & Depersonalize

You’ll find it helps to clear out some of the everyday identifying markers when having people commit to viewings, suchas personal photos, unique collections, or highly specific decorative items. The idea here isn’t to make your home feel sterile, but to help potential buyers imagine their own life in the space. When a room feels open and neutral, it’s easier for someone to project their own style and furniture into it. You don’t have to get rid of these items of course, just put them in a nearby drawer and lock it.

That also gives you the justification for a wider clean, so clear off countertops, tidy up shelves, and organize any overflowing cupboards you may have. A tidy home suggests that the property is well-maintained and has plenty of storage, which is a big plus for most people looking to buy,as it makes the space feel larger and more inviting, welcoming someone new to live in it, and helping viewers focus on the house itself rather than your belongings.

Brighten Things Up

Maximize natural light if you can, but don’t make your windows stark and without decoration. You should begin by cleaning all your windows, inside and out, to let as much natural light flood in as possible. You might also think about pulling back heavy curtains or opening blinds fully during viewings to maximize that brightness. Using beautiful designer blinds and curtains are a great investment, not only because they look wonderful, but you get to bring them with you when you move.

If some areas feel a little dim, add some more light sources, which could involve turning only your lamps, or adding a floor lamp to a darker corner. A brighter home often appears cleaner and more inviting than it would otherwise, making it feel fresh and ready for someone new to move in. It helps potential buyers see the space in its best possible light, literally.

Address Small Repairs

Of course, now’s the time to get any smaller issue you tangentially think is worth doing resolved. Even silly things like the leaky taps, squeaky doors, or a loose cabinet handles count. While such small imperfections might seem minor to you right now,  they can add up in a buyer’s mind, making the house seem like it needs a lot of work.

You don’t want them to try and negotiate two thousand from the asking price because of the work they think needs to be done, when two hundred in repairs could have popped that argument preventatively.

Think About Scents

How your home smells might not be the first thing you consider, but it can definitely leave an impression because not everyone will be as used to it as you are. Few viewers like walking into a house that smells stale or has pet odors, and yes, you can still be a great, clean pet owner and still have a dog or cat smelling house. It’s just how our furry friends are.

So before your viewings, it’s a good idea to air out the place thoroughly by opening windows for a while. You could also try to neutralize any strong smells, perhaps from cooking or pets, well in advance. Odor defeaters are good enough, but try to ventilate. You could also be sneaky and bake some nice cookies or brew a big pot of coffee before people come, or even light some incense, though be aware some people could have allergies or respiratory problems.

With this advice, we hope you can gain more for your household thanks to fortifying its perceived valuation.

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