Like most sellers, you will be looking for a swift sale for the optimum price. This means your home needs to stand out from its competitors and present a winning combination of correct pricing and a lot of appeal, which speaks to the emotional aspect of real estate investment, with responses such as “I just fell in love with the place” often sealing the deal.

There are several ways to tap into this phenomenon. Let’s explore these in more detail.  

First impressions outside

First impressions are vital, so a new coat of paint is essential. Opt for neutral tones to maximise on universal appeal. An attractive garden always gets a potential buyer through the front door. Buyers are generally looking for easy-to-maintain, water-wise gardens. Desirable trends include replacing dry lawn with pebbles or steppingstones, planting indigenous plants, grouping water-wise, indigenous potted plants, and filling open spaces with garden furniture and decks.

Don’t let your garden be an afterthought. Budget for it and allow some time to work in it, or you’ll find yourself spending a fortune at the nursery in the rush up to a show day. If you have a pool, ensure it has a good cover. Boreholes, well points, rain tanks and greywater systems are selling points for a home in any season, but particularly during summer.

Optimise your barbeque area by making it a focal point with a table and comfy chairs as well as a collection of attractive potted plants. Consider purchasing an umbrella if shade is required.

Entrance appeal matters, so give your front door a new varnish, a fresh lick of paint and polish the door handle. Place a pair of attractive potted plants on either side of the doorway and spice up the pathway. Why not splash out on a fresh new doormat – you could take this with you to your new home anyway.

First impressions inside

Capture attention from the moment potential buyers’ step through the door by creating a welcoming reception area. A striking framed mirror, an arrangement of fresh flowers or an attractive piece of furniture are all great options.

It should also smell good, so sprinkle a few drops of essential oil like lavender, geranium, vanilla, cinnamon, or orange blossom, or use a diffuser.

A clutter-free living area makes it easier for buyers to imagine their own furniture in the room. Remove a piece of furniture or two from cramped rooms as this helps to create the illusion of space.

Even in the summer, a functioning fireplace adds tremendous emotional appeal, so lay fresh firewood or pinecones in the grate to prompt potential buyers to visualise a cosy scene.

Switch on all lights and open curtains. Replace old light fittings and never leave naked bulbs on display, they create a depressing aura of neglect. Convert any extra rooms to bedrooms as this adds perceived value. Upgrade bedding with crisp white linens.

Steam clean carpets and curtains to freshen up and remove any musty or pet odours.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are areas requiring careful attention, as buyers are often swayed by their reaction to the bathrooms in a home. The following tips can be useful.

• Display clean fluffy towels in neatly folded piles or roll them up and stack in an attractive basket

• Clean soap dispensers and consider pouring shampoos and bath gels into stylish containers

• There should be no clutter on bathroom surfaces, so pack away cosmetics and lotions

• Scrupulous cleanliness is essential. Surfaces should gleam and the room should smell fresh. Try an invigorating fragrance like lemongrass, mint, or green tea

• There are several plants which do well in the humid atmosphere of a bathroom. Orchids, bamboo, and peace lilies are just a few. Surround your plants with an array of pebbles or seashells.

Kitchens

Kitchens require scrupulous attention. Clear countertops of appliances. If you have a beautiful coffee filter or cappuccino machine, this should be displayed. Place lemons or apples in a beautiful bowl.

Remove fridge magnets and notes - these make your kitchen look very untidy.

Consider a small kitchen herb garden on a windowsill. This suggests potential to would-be buyers and adds freshness to your kitchen atmosphere.

If you feel that you are struggling to sell your home, it may be worth your while to hire a home stager. This is someone who will style or stage your home with rented furniture and objects and art, with the specific purpose of increasing its appeal to potential buyers.

Lastly, remember to be patient. Your home will sell when the time is right. Try not to make rash decisions and wait for the best offer to come your way.