It is no secret that in today's market, properties of all shapes and sizes are flying off the shelf at a record rate. Last year, homes went under offer faster, with the median selling time reducing to 18 days (ESPC figures). In 2021, DM Property's average selling time was even quicker than this, selling within 12 days. There are a plethora of buyers at the moment, so for those people looking to sell, now is a great time to be doing so.

However, just because it is a seller's market at the moment, it does not guarantee your property will be snapped up in the blink of an eye. It is still important that you showcase your home in the best possible light, making it attractive and appealing to a wide range of buyers.

In this blog post, we take a look at some of the things you can do to help your property sell as quickly as possible.

Improving the kerb appeal

The first thing that potential buyers notice when they see your house for sale is its exterior appearance. The exterior of your home should always be kept clean and tidy, but there are also a few simple ways you can improve the curb appeal of your home.

First, make sure that any weeds or overgrown plants around the front of your house have been tidied away. Ensuring the grass is cut, driveways and paths have been cleaned, cleaning your windows and sills and adding a few potted plants are all great ways of making a great first impression. 

Secondly, make sure any rubbish bins or recycling containers are not piled up and are stored away neatly. It may seem such a minor thing but these little things can impact how a person perceives the rest of the property as they view it.

Be flexible with your viewings

We understand it can be difficult to manage your time between work and all your other commitments, but being too restrictive with your availability for viewings (whether conducted by yourself or an estate agent) can really limit the number of people coming through your door to view the property. 

Because the market is moving quickly, potential buyers may opt out of viewing your property and move on to other viewings if you aren't flexible with your time.

Spring clean

It may seem an obvious one, but make sure your property has been cleaned top to bottom before any viewings take place. Bathrooms and kitchens are two key areas that usually require the most attention.

For example, lingering cooking or pet smells can immediately turn off a potential buyer, and so can taps and showers that are marked with limescale or discoloured sealant.  

Make sure your house is clean, tidy and clutter-free. This should help potential buyers envision how they might use the space.

Sell the space

Staging your property is all about getting the buyer to envisage themselves living there. It is worth considering whether each room is being showcased to its full potential. For example, setting up a box room with a daybed or a desk would allow potential buyers to see how the room could be used as an office or a space to host guests.

If like many people you are working from home, be sure to make sure you aren't letting it encroach into the 'living space' when you have viewings. We have seen many home offices set up at the dining table, but make sure this is tidied away for the viewing, and also consider setting your dining table to show prospective buyers how the space can function. 

Be realistic with your price

According to the ESPC in March 2022, buyers paid 5.9% over the Home Report valuation on average, however that does not mean that sellers should ask their estate agents to list for an unrealistic and inflated price. Our agents provide free, no-obligation valuations that are based on thorough research and years of experience. This means you are guaranteed an honest property appraisal and a realistic estimation. To sell your property quickly, it is important to listen to this advice and not request the property to be listed at a significantly marked up price.

Listing for a price based on your estate agent's recommendations will mean more people will show interest in the property and you are more likely to sell quickly and achieve a higher price.

We'll get you moving

With 5 offices across Scotland, a 12-day average selling time AND averaging 9% over home valuations, DM Property is perfectly placed to get you moving, quickly!

If you have any further queries or require any more information, we'd love to hear from you. DM Property is here to help you at every step of the way.