Is your home a little old fashioned? It’s worth completing updates prior to marketing your property. This will avoid your property being undervalued. For instance, consider buying new handles for doors which are an inexpensive way to give your home a lift. If a fresh lick of paint is required remember neutral colours are always the best option. Strong colours and old décor can put off buyers completely.

Ensuring all obvious repairs are done will greatly improve your chance of securing the best price for your property.

Here are some easy examples to check:

• Replace all light bulbs
• Fix any leaking guttering
• Secure kitchen unit doors
• Secure any loose tiles
• Replace worn or stained flooring

Remember to clean the house from top to bottom. Storage is really important for most buyers, so expect them to open cupboards and drawers to check their space and sizes. The bathroom and kitchen need to be sparkling. Hide away all the day to day items including toiletries, medicines, cleaning products, toys and shoes. Tidy the garden areas and consider reducing the number of overly personal items; this will help the buyer envisage living in the property themselves.

Collate all property documents such as guarantees for repairs, certificates for gas and electrical work or services, council tax bills and any other documentation you have. Start considering which solicitor you want to use.

Try to ensure any pets are not around, or at the very least secured away, at the time of viewings. Remove unpleasant or strong pet smells as first impressions are important.

Viewings can be accompanied by the estate agent or undertaken solo. Accompanied viewings gives us an opportunity to do our part of the job.

Our experienced negotiators are there to achieve the best price for the property so all parties are advised to concentrate on viewing only at this point of the sales process. Price negotiations are discussed separately at a later date. All communications are best carried out through your estate agent.