The top six things that may put potential buyers off your property, according to a new poll, are not all as obvious as you might assume.

Clutter

Buyers are put off by clutter because it can make rooms appear smaller. It is also particularly off putting if they have to step over or manoeuvre around it. Spend some time tidying up your home. Consider renting a storage unit to put some of your belongings in until your move if you can’t bear to let go of them.

Dirt

When preparing your property for a viewing, cleaning is a must. Prospective buyers are attempting to picture themselves living in your property. Yes, unclean properties can be cleaned, but most people struggle to imagine what something can look like after cleaning. So make sure that the impression you give them is one that is clean and inviting.

Clingy Sellers

You naturally want to know how a viewing is going and want to make sure that the prospective buyers see all of your home’s most beautiful features. However, loitering sellers are more likely to drive away potential buyers than to entice them to submit an offer. This is because prospective buyers need to be able to imagine themselves living in your property, and doing so is much more difficult if the present owner is continually drawing attention to the life they are leading in the property.

Smells

Potential buyers always dislike unpleasant scents because they are concerned they will be unable to rid the property of them. Make sure you spend the time necessary to identify and address any sources of offensive odours. Even though you might be tempted to burn your favourite scented candle, remember that no amount of perfume, no matter how potent, can cover up an offensive odour. Instead, a combination of the two odours results, which can be very unpleasant. Buyers are most attracted to the aroma of fresh air, so make sure your home has had plenty of time to air out before any showings.

The Goldilocks Effect

A prospective buyer’s opinion of your property can be influenced by how comfortable they feel during their viewing. You don’t want them to think of your home as “the cold house” or “the hot house”. You want them to feel as relaxed as possible during their viewing. Consider setting your thermostat to 21°C a couple of hours before each viewing since that is the temperature most people feel comfortable at.

Your estate agent

Potential buyers are not only annoyed by rude and unhelpful agents, but they may also be put off buying your property as a result of their interactions with them. When choosing your estate agent, spend some time asking them about the area and their expertise selling properties similar to yours. When you leave them alone with your potential buyers during viewings, it’s crucial that they have the social skills to be able to convert a possible buyer into an offer. If you don’t find them to be informed and personable, your potential buyers won’t either.

If you would like more advice on what you can do to present your property in its best light during viewings or are considering selling in Sheffield & Rotherham and would like a free no obligation valuation then please don’t hesitate to give me a call on 07920 097 175 or send an email to linda.stringer@exp.uk.com.