Preparing for an Open Inspection
Creating that homely feel
Presenting your property in the best possible light is always a good place to start. You want potential buyers to be able to envision themselves living in your home. While depersonalising your home is sometimes advised, try not to completely strip your home of all personal touches – you want people to see that it’s a loved home. Making your property feel homely could be as simple as scented candles, indoor plants and cosy cushions.
Clean, clean, clean!
While this may be obvious, it is one of the most important steps in preparing your home for an inspection – you’d be surprised what a thorough clean of your property will do. Try and do a big clean when you first list your property – dust, scrub and wash (and don’t forget inside the oven, cupboards and windows), that way, you should only need a refresh clean before each future open home or inspection.
Declutter
Similar to cleaning, you want to ensure you have removed any unwanted and unnecessary items. You can pack these away in moving boxes (if you want to keep them), this will even give you a head start for when you do sell and have to start packing. You will also want to remove any valuables – whilst the agent will always take care and attention, it is recommended that you put anything of value away, including jewellery, valuable electronics, etc.
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Don’t forget outside
Whilst your homes interior is extremely important, so is your outside space. Queensland is a place where we can enjoy our outdoor time all year round (for the most part), so you need to make sure your garden and patio carries the same level of beauty you apply inside. Clear away any weeds, dead leaves and general rubbish, and give your garden a nice tidy. Again, you should give your outside space a good clean when you list your property, the, before each open home or inspection, a quick freshen up should do.
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Set the right temperature
A simple task before an open home, yet very effective. During the winter months it can get quite chilly, which could be particularly noticeable if your property is already very cool. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, and heat or cool your home accordingly. You don’t want potential buyer’s sweating or shivering whilst inspecting your home – put ceiling fans on (or air conditioning) if it’s hot outside, and turn on portable heaters (or built in heaters) if it’s a cold day.
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Take the pets for a walk
During an open home you don’t want your little (or not so little) dog or cat running around your home or garden. You also don’t want to make your pet feel uncomfortable and on edge with strangers walking in their home. Just before your open home, remove litter boxes, food bowls and pet beds, and also any pet fur from furniture. Once everything is cleared away, round up your furry friend and go for a nice stroll or car ride.
