Open for inspection: 7 ways to make your property stand out

17 Sep Open for inspection: 7 ways to make your property stand out

When it comes to selling your home, the open for inspection is one of the most important opportunities to create a strong first impression.

Potential buyers may have already seen professional photos, studied the floorplan and researched the neighbourhood, but the inspection is where they experience the property for themselves. The way your home looks, feels and presents on the day can influence whether a buyer walks away interested, indifferent or ready to make an offer.

Working closely with your real estate agent can help you prepare properly and make the most of every inspection.

Start with a thorough clean

A clean home immediately feels better cared for. Pay particular attention to kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows and high-traffic areas.

Remove dust, wipe down surfaces and make sure mirrors, glass and stainless-steel appliances are spotless. Outside, sweep paths, tidy garden beds and remove cobwebs around entrances.

You do not necessarily need everything to be brand new. Buyers simply want to feel that the property has been well maintained.

Declutter, but don’t remove all personality

Too much furniture, clutter and personal memorabilia can make rooms feel smaller and distract buyers from the property itself.

Clear kitchen benches, bathroom counters and crowded shelves. Pack away unnecessary furniture and create clear pathways through each room.

However, avoid making the home feel completely empty or sterile. A few carefully chosen furnishings, cushions, artwork or plants can create warmth while still allowing buyers to imagine themselves living there.

Pay attention to your entrance

First impressions begin before buyers walk through the front door.

Mow the lawn, trim overgrown plants, remove rubbish bins, sweep the entrance and consider adding a healthy pot plant or fresh doormat.

If the front door looks tired, a simple clean or fresh coat of paint can make a surprisingly big difference.

Create light, space and fresh air

Natural light is one of the easiest ways to make a home feel inviting.

Open curtains and blinds, turn on lights in darker rooms and make sure windows are clean. Where weather permits, fresh air can also make the property feel more comfortable.

Your agent can advise whether doors, blinds or outdoor entertaining areas should be opened before buyers arrive to help the home flow naturally.

Remove pets and minimise distractions

You may love your pets, but not every buyer will feel the same way.

Where possible, arrange for pets to be away during the inspection and remove food bowls, bedding, toys and litter trays.

You should generally also leave the property while the inspection is taking place. Buyers are often more comfortable asking questions and discussing the home when the owner is not standing nearby.

Make small repairs before inspection day

Minor problems can attract disproportionate attention.

A dripping tap, broken light globe, loose door handle, cracked switch plate or squeaky cupboard may be inexpensive to fix, but buyers can interpret small maintenance issues as signs that larger problems may have been neglected.

Before your first inspection, walk through the property with your real estate agent and ask what should be repaired, improved or left alone.

Listen to buyer feedback

One of your agent’s most valuable roles is gathering feedback after each open inspection.

Ask what buyers liked, what concerned them and whether there were recurring comments about presentation, price or particular features.

Try not to take criticism personally. Buyer feedback can help you and your agent adjust the marketing campaign, presentation or pricing strategy where appropriate.

Work as a team with your agent

A successful property campaign is a partnership.

Your real estate agent understands the local market, competing properties and the expectations of current buyers. Keep communication open, discuss inspection numbers and buyer enquiries, and ask your agent what they recommend before making significant changes.

Importantly, decisions involving selling strategy, pricing, contracts, finance and taxation can have significant financial consequences. Seek appropriate professional advice before making major decisions.

The objective of an open inspection is simple: make it easy for buyers to see the potential in your property. Good preparation, professional presentation and a strong working relationship with your agent can give your home the best possible opportunity to make a memorable impression.

If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.

This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)