A New Year Already? - Edition 5

2023 was a tricky time for the housing market. The Truss Kwarteng budget set off a whole series of events followed by a huge hike in interest and then mortgage rates. This slowed down sales dramatically in most sectors of the market and many agents were having a hard time finding new instructions and selling what they had on the books. 

BUT 2024 looks more optimistic already. Mortgage rates are coming down and there is anticipation that interest rates will do the same now inflation is lower. Hopefully this will mean that home owners who have felt ‘stuck’ for a while, whether or not they are already on the market, will make the decision to instruct an agent who really knows how to get them moving.  With that in mind here are our top tips to make sure the houses you sell are looking their very best….

Many premium homes have been in the same hands for decades. The family living there may have ceased to notice the little jobs that need to be done. In your role as their trusted advisor you can flag issues and help to source contractors to get things done.

Address any necessary repairs or upgrades to enhance the overall condition of the property. This may include fixing any structural issues, updating ancient appliances or refreshing interior finishes. Any use of premium materials or high-end finishes throughout the property can be emphasised in the property description and create a selling point. This includes high-end countertops, flooring, fixtures, and appliances.

Ensure the exterior of the property is well-maintained and presents an impressive first impression. This includes landscaping, exterior lighting, and any necessary repairs or touch-ups. If the garden is looking a little unloved, especially if they are selling before the garden comes to life in the Spring, homeowners should consider investing in professional landscaping services to ensure the property's exterior is visually stunning. This may include help to manicure the lawns, prune trees and shrubs and plant seasonal flowers. The landscaping should complement the architectural style of the home.

Again, if the same family has been in the house for a long time, there is likely to be a level of clutter not usually seen in lower priced homes. It takes time to get rooms decluttered and looking their best and it may well be worth investing in professional help. Remove personal items and excess clutter to allow potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. But it is a fine balance, don’t depersonalise to the point where the space no longer feels like a home. Buyers want to emotionally engage with the house and imagine bringing up their won family there.  

Great lighting can have an impressive impact. Strategically position lighting to enhance the property's curb appeal during the day and night. Consider well-placed outdoor lighting fixtures to highlight architectural features, landscaping, and pathways. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also emphasises the property's security and safety. It can be used to showcase the outdoor eating areas or even an outside workroom. 

Indoors, strategic lighting can emphasise the best features of the house and be used to create atmosphere in any room. 

Clean, clean and clean again. Period homes, once decluttered are often dusty and have corners that haven’t seen the light of day for years. Invest in a thorough professional cleaning of the entire home, including carpets, windows, and hard-to-reach areas. A spotless and well-maintained home reflects positively on its overall care, buyers will believe the maintenance of the house is also good if everything sparkles. 

All these points come under the remit of a good professional home stager. Get them involved right from the outset, long before the house is to be launched. Many premium homes, especially in the country, are owned by an older seller. They may be feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of moving at all without the added hassle of decluttering, decorating or getting the garden sorted. As a premium agent, if you can offer a solution to all their reservations then you will be the agent they choose to instruct. 

Buyers of premium homes are spending a lot of money. They will have a high expectation and be seeking perfection, so a property in top condition will instill confidence and trust. If the property also requires additional furniture or accessories to show every room to best advantage a home stager will be able to help. 

By discussing these strategies now with clients, estate agents can not only showcase premium homes effectively but also create a compelling narrative that resonates with the expectations of high-end buyers. Tailoring the marketing approach to the unique features of the property and the preferences of the target demographic is key to a successful sale in the premium market.

For help and guidance on achieving the best sale for your clients’ premium property, contact professional home stagers Lemon and Lime Interiors hello@lemonandlimeinteriors.co.uk 01332 987740