Spring checklist – How to get your property ready for the busiest time of the year

The UK sees the highest seasonal uptick in property transactions in the three months from March to May and the Spring property market in London is all set for another season of sunshine. Zoopla’s latest report has estimated an 11% increase in the number of properties for sale, while Rightmove says the number of new sellers coming to the market is 13% higher than last year.

However, with improved stock availability in a buyer’s market, sellers must take steps to get their properties ready for the busiest time of the year. While we share our Spring property checklist for a successful sale below, check out our annual maintenance checklist and general tips to boost the value of your property before a sale.

A good spring clean

The senses play a vital role when prospective buyers view a property. The sight of a sparkling floor, the smell of fresh air and the touch of a spotless wall indicate a well-kept property. A proper deep clean that involves vacuuming the indoors and removing unpleasant sightings like cobwebs, mould, and pet odours with good ventilation is an easy and effective way to present your property to buyers.

Setting the right impression

The first few minutes of viewing are critical when forming an impression about a property. Since it is Spring, you can make the most of the bright outdoors and enhance your property’s ‘kerb appeal’. Well-kept doors, windows, and decorative elements at the entrance can set the premise for a successful viewing, welcoming visitors to look closer.

Declutter where possible

Viewings are about letting potential buyers imagine their lives and belongings in the property. Excess items overflowing your wardrobe and cabinets or strewn around the floor can give an impression of inadequate space in the house. Space is a premium in London, so you must take steps to optimise its use to the fullest.

Fix maintenance issues and do minor repairs

Although most buyers carry out a snagging or survey before moving into a new property, fixing minor issues like leaky taps and faucets, chipped walls, broken lights, etc., is advisable so that your property doesn’t come across as neglected. These minor repairs do not cost much but play a big role in boosting buyer confidence when considering their options.

Give every room a purpose

Many families store old furniture, clothes, appliances, etc, in a designated part of the house that is kept hidden. If you have such a room or storage area, try decluttering it and optimising it as a study or functional guest room. Optimising all the available space is key to making a property feel more spacious and welcoming.

Attractive and well-maintained gardens

As much as buyers are interested in the indoor space, Spring can be a good time to present the outdoor areas at their best. From pruning the garden and trimming the hedges to adding seasonal flowering plants and painting the front door and fences, sprucing up the balcony or outdoor garden can add some points to the overall appeal.

Thoughtful last-minute touches

You need not go overboard, but a few aesthetic touches, like adding soft lights, flowers or gentle room fresheners and overall tidying up, can help catch the attention of different buyers. Ensure the rooms are well-lit, as adequate lighting can help prospective buyers or agents get better pictures for reference when comparing their options.

Keep all the paperwork ready

You may need a few documents and certificates before listing your property for sale. From the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to building regulations, planning permissions, and instructing a solicitor for legal assistance, selling a property requires the seller to prepare all the required documents, so starting all the paperwork early is recommended.

Keep your pricing realistic

While the urge to earn a considerable profit from a sale is always tempting, a fair and unbiased valuation is essential to price a property correctly so it sells quickly. Working with an expert agent to get an accurate valuation will help buyers take an interest in viewing your property. Pricing a property correctly from the start is always better than reducing the ask later due to a lack of buyer interest.

Be flexible with buyers

A good sale can often fall through if the buyer and seller don’t align on small things. Be open to accommodating multiple viewing requests or negotiations in pricing and completion dates for serious buyers looking to close the deal as soon as possible. Such flexibility goes a long way in establishing goodwill between all the parties involved.

While Spring is surely a good time to sell your property, many other sellers in your locality are vying for the same buyers. Therefore, certain home improvements that add value to your London property are essential. However, for the best advice and assistance, we have 21 branches across the UK capital to help you with a successful sale. From minor repairs to comprehensive renovations, furnishing and more, we work with professional experts to deliver the best results. Contact us for more details to sell your London property.