First impressions are extremely important. It is essential that the outside of your house looks tidy and presentable as this is what potential buyers are going to see first. The inside may be immaculate, but if the house from the outside appears scruffy and shabby you may deter people from making an appointment to view.

Make sure the grass is kept tidy and the paths are swept and free of any litter and leaves. Add some colour to the flower beds by planting some flowers or put them in hanging baskets and pots to make the area more colourful. Check whether the front door needs a new coat of paint and whether the door bell is working properly. Keep the inside and outside of the windows clean as well as all the curtains and window dressings.

Prior to someone viewing your property, open all the windows and doors to air your house, as a stuffy house is not very welcoming. Maybe make some fresh coffee or put a stick of cinnamon in the oven on a low heat to create a natural aroma. Don’t spray highly scented air fresheners as this only creates an unpleasant smell and makes people wonder whether you are trying to cover up a nasty odour.

Once they are through the front door, take control of the viewing by showing them from one room to the next. It is always nice to end with, for example, the master bedroom with en suite rather than the box room, as they are more likely to go away with positive feelings about your house.

Ensure all doors open easily and are free of any unnecessary squeaks by lightly spraying all hinges with a suitable lubricant.

It is essential that your property is clean and tidy and free from all unnecessary clutter. This will create a feeling of space and enable potential buyers to visualise themselves and their furniture in your house.

Living Room.

This is often the first room to be viewed and is a key room to most home owners. Ensure that the carpet is clean by hiring a professional carpet cleaner, or hire the equipment yourself.

Remove all unnecessary items from the floor as this will create a feeling of greater space and cover any tired and worn settees and chairs with neutral throws. An arrangement of fresh flowers in a prominent position makes the room appear fresh and inviting.

Kitchen.

This is the room that can sell a property. Get rid of any clutter, making sure work surfaces are as clear as possible. Box up such items as food processors and bread-makers if they are taking up space on the work surfaces and store them in the loft or garage. Ensure all areas are spotlessly clean, including the insides of the cupboards. Potential buyers will want to see inside these to check how much storage they would have.

Dining Area.

Even if you don’t use the area as a place to eat, it is important to set the table so that potential buyers can see there is a clearly defined area in which to dine.

Dining Room.

Again, set the table, using your best crockery and cutlery and an arrangement of fresh flowers as a centrepiece. Let the table be the focal point by keeping clutter to a minimum and floors as clear as possible.

Cloakroom.

It is essential that this room is thoroughly clean. Generally, the room is small so a light colour emulsion on the walls creates a greater feeling of space. Keep window dressings simple and remove anything unnecessary like knick-knacks, shoes and coats, which are so often stored here!

Bathroom.

Again, this room must be spotlessly clean and free from clutter. Put all toiletries away in an attractive basket and ensure the towels and toilet roll paper coordinate with the colour of the walls and suite.

Bedrooms.

Show potential buyers around the smallest first, making sure all beds are dressed with pressed bed covers. Put personal belongings away, creating a feeling of space and tranquillity. Ensure all fitted wardrobes are tidy as these will probably be inspected by those viewing your property.

Garden.

The garden doesn’t have to be perfectly landscaped, but make sure it is neat and tidy and free from any rubbish. Pots and hanging baskets add colour and a patio set can demonstrate the garden’s versatility.

Garage.

Today garages are mostly used as a workshop or for storage space and not for keeping cars. Ensure the garage is clean and free from any unnecessary rubbish and use wall hanging brackets to store bikes, gardening equipment and tools.