I’m an estate agent – the mistakes we instantly notice that can really cheapen your home
THEY say first impressions are everything, and this is especially true when it comes to your home.
And this is really important if you’re looking to get a valuation on your home or are looking to sell – as estate agents and prospective buyers will make judgements as soon as they step through the door.
Jessica Mitchell, branch manager at Gascoines Estate Agent in Nottingham, says: “When entering a property you often get a gut feeling if the house is going to be a ‘hot’ property.
“It’s definitely exciting when we get a very special listing that we know will fly out the door straight away.”
Here, Jessica and Jeff Djevdet, a property valuer at Speed Property Buyers, reveal the common mistakes they see that can instantly cheapen your home, and their tips and tricks to make improvements…
First impressions
In property, creating a good first impression is literally everything.
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Jeff says: “The first thing you notice is the smell.
“Are they smokers, do they have pets and is the house clean?
“Clean and tidy homes are always best, it is genuinely amazing what a few well-placed air fresheners and a run over with a vacuum can do.
“Clutter is my pet hate – so keep it minimal. I simply cannot stand bikes left in halls either.”
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Jessica agrees, saying: “The most prominent thing I notice is a nice smelling home.
“The second thing I notice is natural light, it gives the home a bright and airy atmosphere, so I always recommend trying to keep curtains or shutters open to enhance that feel.
“The third is cleanliness, no clutter or rubbish! Clean floors are a big thing – try to eliminate stains and un-hoovered carpets.”
Cheap cheap
If you’re trying to give off an air of sophistication, there are things you should do – and things that you should definitely avoid if you don’t want to make the place feel cheap.
Jessica says: “Fitted curtains or shutters make a huge difference.
“They create a sleek and lavish feel, rather than a curtain rail that’s ill-fitted and on a slant.
“Another huge thing can be a feral garden. Ensuring your grass is cut and trees are trimmed makes a world of difference.
Jeff adds: “‘Experimental’ décor when people want a blank canvas is a no-no.
“A home gym in what should be a bedroom, can put some off too – many buyers can’t see past it.
“A cool house in winter will make buyers worry about insulation and heating bills.
“I’d also suggest not leaving too many family photos on display as these can be distracting.”
Top tips
So what’s the solution?
Jeff says: “Clean and declutter. Wash windows inside and out, and wipe dust off bulbs to give the maximum amount of light.
“Tidy the garden and put a few colourful plants in beds and pots.
“Make sure the house is cosy and warm in winter and ventilated in hot weather.
“If you have nice carpets, give viewers shoe covers so they don’t have to remove their shoes – it’ll show how much you care for your house.
“If there’s only space for one or two cars on the drive, park yours down the road so the buyer can use the space rather than driving round looking for parking.”
Jessica says: “Go quality over quantity. Adding high-quality, branded appliances will increase the value of your house.
“It’s the little things that make a huge difference, such as ensuring all beds are made to a high standard, and all your picture frames are hung straight on your walls.”
Snobby situation
Of course, in the quest to make your home as sophisticated and as sought-after as possible, it’s important to not veer too far – and become snobby.
Jeff says: “Some sellers get shirty and refuse to sell to someone they don’t like, which doesn’t make any sense.
“I once valued a flat at the correct market value.
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The elderly seller said she wanted to add 20 per cent to the price so that we would find ‘a better class of buyer’!
“I’m pleased to say this snobby owner had to take a market-value offer just like everyone else!”
