How to prepare your property for sale

04 March, 2024

An At Home In Edinburgh guide

Introduction

Edinburgh’s property market is competitive, so, as you prepare your property for sale, it is important that you invest time presenting it in its best possible light. This will maximise its appeal and give you the best chance of securing the highest sales price.

Our friendly, expert At Home In Edinburgh team is here to guide you through this process, providing advice on the simple steps which can make a difference.

Start with a professional valuation

Your very first step as you prepare your property for sale is to contact At Home In Edinburgh for a professional valuation. We will assess your property’s market value and offer advice on how to present your property to maximise its appeal. We’ll also advise you on the current market trends and current buyer demand.
Understanding your property’s worth is crucial for setting a competitive yet realistic asking price.

Make sure your property is clean

Cleanliness suggests the property has been well-maintained and cared for. Make sure the property’s windows are clean and carry out a thorough deep clean. Including areas that you do not regularly clean can be time-consuming, e.g. light fittings and skirting boards, so it’s worth considering the use of a professional cleaning company.
Smell is one of the first senses we engage when entering a new environment. A pleasant scent can immediately create a positive impression. Scented candles are a great way of creating a pleasant background smell.

Update the decor

First impressions matter, and a fresh, well-maintained interior can greatly enhance your property’s appeal.
Consider a neutral colour palette for walls to create a clean and inviting atmosphere.

Garden and entrance

Edinburgh’s gardens are in demand. Ensure your private or communal garden looks the part.
Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and make it look its best. A tidy garden will not only impress potential buyers but will also showcase the overall care you give your property.
Ensure your entrance is clean and tidy to give potential buyers the best first impression. First impressions really do count, as many potential buyers will decide if they like a property within the first few seconds of a viewing.
If you live in an Edinburgh tenement, ensuring the communal areas are clean and tidy, with working lights, is important. A well-presented tenement will give the impression of good neighbours who care about the upkeep of the building.

Illuminate and declutter

Maximising light is a simple yet effective way to make your property feel more spacious and welcoming. Clean the windows and make sure all light bulbs are working.
Declutter each room, allowing potential buyers to envision the space as their own. Consider rearranging furniture to create an open and flowing layout.
There are many online articles and videos that provide good decluttering advice, but our top tips are:
- Bathroom – tidy away soaps, shampoos, makeup, etc.
- Bedrooms – keep bedside tables and tops of dressers clear and make the beds with clean, ironed and neutral bedding.
- Hallway – remove shoes and most coats from hooks.
- Living areas – remove some ornaments and books to give the appearance of space. Throw away old magazines and newspapers.
- Kitchen – keep worktops clear of everything but essential items, e.g. kettle and toaster.
- Kids’ toys – keep kids’ toys in their bedrooms in neat storage boxes or in a dedicated area of the property.
- Garages and sheds – these are an extension of your home so show them as such. Throw away anything not required and store what is left neatly.

Fix minor repairs

Attend to any minor repairs, such as leaky taps, squeaky doors, or chipped paint. These small details may seem insignificant, but they can influence a buyer’s perception of the property’s overall condition.

Highlight key features

Work with At Home In Edinburgh to identify and showcase your property’s unique features. Whether it’s a stunning view, a spacious kitchen, or original architectural details, emphasising these aspects can set your property apart in a competitive market.

Use our contractors

As an established lettings business, we have trusted contractors that can carry out any works required, including decoration, minor repairs, or even fitting new kitchens and bathrooms.

Prepare ‘new owner’ information

Welcome new owners by letting them know of all the highlights that come with living in your property. Mention school catchments, local amenities and anything that will ensure their move goes smoothly.

How to prepare your property for sale – conclusion

Preparing your property for sale is a strategic process that involves attention to detail and a keen understanding of the local market.

Our At Home In Edinburgh team will guide you through this journey, offering a professional valuation and expert advice to enhance your property’s appeal. We have a wealth of experience preparing properties for rental, but what really sets us apart is our keen eye for detail and dependable contractors who can showcase your property in its best possible light.

You can call in to our Marchmont office at 39 Warrender Park Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1EU, drop us an email at [email protected] or simply give us a ring on 0131 229 4001.

We can’t wait to be a part of your property journey!