What to watch out for when selling property

Most people are very cautious when it comes to buying property and will take time to scrutinise your home in minute detail.

Because of this, there are factors you need to consider before showing your property to a potential buyer. Some of the things we may take for granted are what will cost you a buyer so take keen note.

Leave the compound untidy

There are those who believe that Kenyans only care about the house they are coming to see so there’s no need to fix up the compound. You must see your compound as an extension of the house and give it a thorough once-over.

Clean the compound, cut shrubs, remove weeds, and keep the lawn mowed or concrete washed clean. How your compound looks sets the expectations of the buyers before they’ve even stepped into your house.

What’s that smell

Give your home the sniff test. Nothing is more off-putting to a prospective buyer than a house that smells stale … or worse. Often, you become so used to the smell of your own home that you do not notice scents that might offend visitors.

Empty the garbage, remove dirty clothes from sight or better still wash them before showing your home to outsiders, give your furniture a quick polish, and for goodness sake, clean the dog mess.

Show them how well you are doing

Definitely not: Tone it down. Make your house a place that anyone could imagine living in. This means removing most evidence of your personal taste. Neutral walls, pale furniture, soft lighting and inoffensive art all go a long way toward creating a crowd-pleasing interior. Store your collections in a safe place for the duration of the selling process.

Remember, you want prospective buyers to look at the space, not get distracted by your stuffed game collection. It also works in not attracting people who may not have good intentions and who may be tempted to come back for your treasured possessions later.

Distracting guard dog

Let your dog meet prospective buyers, after all he doesn’t bother anyone.
Wrong: A barking dog is extremely distracting when prospective buyers are trying to get a detailed look at your house.

Even though he might be contained, the incessant barking can be off-putting. Keep your dog or dogs away until the visitors are gone.

Untidy rooms