I am always amazed when talking to people who are wanting top price for their house, but are horrified when I suggest they invest £50 in a thorough spring clean! This is despite the popularity of the House Doctor on TV which has introduced us to the American approach to preparing houses to go on the market, and has showed us that putting in a little effort can reap us big rewards.

The truth is - putting your house up for sale and hoping for the best just won't do in the current competitive housing market. Buyers are becoming more and more discerning and it is imperative to grab the opportunity to catch their eye with a home that is well-presented, clean and welcoming. You must find a way to create a home which allows potential buyers to see themselves and their possessions installed there.

So what can we do to get ahead of the game and have those buyers fighting to offer us top money? Here are some of my Tempting Top Tips on the best and easiest way to make your home stand out from the crowd;-

· Kerb Appeal – many prospective buyers do a 'drive by' before arranging to view, so the state of the outside is crucial in getting them through the door. Keep the garden tidy and make sure the decoration is up to date. The front door is really important and should attract visitors, so give it emphasis, and keep this area clean and free of debris.
· De-clutter – buyers probably don't want to see your gallery of family photos or examine your huge collection of thimbles! So, pack them away ready for the move and store out of sight, leaving clear and open spaces, which will make your home feel much bigger. Don't go too minimal though – it must still feel like a home.
· Clean & tidy – sounds obvious doesn't it, but you'd be surprised! A spotlessly clean, sweet smelling house makes buyers smile.
· Atmosphere – keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer, and draw curtains back during the day to let in as much light as possible. Good soft lighting at night will create a cosy and welcoming feeling.
· DIY - Don't invest £1000s putting in new kitchens and bathrooms – you won't get your money back and buyers may not like your choices, so brightening up and a lick of paint is probably the most cost effective work to do.
· Garden – it should be neat and tidy above all and, as above, don't spend a fortune on any posh new garden designs – you won't make any money here.
· Pets – and buyers don't mix! Remove pet food, hairs, beds and smells while you are showing your home.
· Best for Last – if you are showing buyers round yourself, show the best room downstairs first and the best room upstairs last – your buyers will go away with a great lasting impression.

(Johanna Donne runs her successful interior design business, Tempting Interiors, from Henfield in West Sussex, covering the South East of England. She specialises in both Interior Design and Property Presentation).

Johanna Donne
Tempting Interiors
johanna@temptinginteriors.co.uk
www.temptinginteriors.co.uk
01273 495848