3 Must Do's To Prepare Your Property For Home Opens
Here are three things you must do when setting your property up for home open inspection.
Home opens are like first dates. You only get one chance to make that first impression.
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Clean up
Though it’s rather obvious, you’d be surprised.
Vacuum, dust, wash – make sure your whole property is neat and tidy when buyers arrive. This includes the garden and outside areas as well.
Remove any hazardous items whereby people might trip over them, such as shoes from the entrance.
Clear out the mailbox and have the rubbish bins emptied and place them in a location where it’s ideally out of sight.
If you require assistance, hire a professional organiser or declutterer or even a helping hand from a friend. A second opinion can go a long way.
Extra tips
One of the most common complaints from potential buyers at home opens, is the presence of unpleasant smells.
Counter the smell by using inviting fragrances, such as scented candles, diffusers or freshly baked cookies.
Pet smells or stains can turn someone off your property so ensure that you have deodorised the property, clean traces of hair and remove any litter boxes or droppings from the yard.
Also, air out your home thoroughly, so it feels as fresh and clean as possible. Draw back the curtains and blinds to bring in natural light to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
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Safety
You should be mindful to protect anything valuable before you open your house up to strangers.
Take your precious belongings with you upon leaving the property, or place them in a safe or a secure cupboard or drawer.
Ensure that your property is safe for people to come through and only allow people into your house based on the specified home open times.
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Make yourself scarce
It is highly recommended for you as a vendor to leave your house during a home open inspection.
This is because buyers can sometimes feel quite intimidated by the presence of an owner and can limit the buyer’s ability to ask questions or comment. They may also feel that they are invading the owner’s privacy and could potentially shorten the inspection.
Coordinate with your agent and be ready to head out for a short time, taking any family members and pets with you.
Don’t forget to do a quick pass through on the way out, clearing away any messes.
Ultimately, a home open is a time where you can show off your property to potential buyers.
Stay clean, stay safe and stay positive.
