Presentation

A tidy home says "Welcome". Your home should be kept neat and tidy during the period of inspections. It should not necessarily be a "show place" but appear a comfortable home in which to live. Fresh flowers or indoor plants always brighten up a home.

While you’re cleaning, think about each room and what furniture really needs to be in it. Rooms look smaller when they are crowded. Clear out anything that's not needed to create a feeling of spaciousness.

Make sure that all minor repairs are completed. Sticking doors and windows, loose door knobs, faulty plumbing, peeling paint or faulty flywire may affect your sale.

Let plenty of light into your home. Nothing improves atmosphere more than brightness. And on a dull day switch on some lights prior to arrival of prospective purchasers.

A warm comfortable heated home on cold days adds a feeling of cosiness; on a hot day don't forget to turn on the air conditioner or fan (or simply let the breeze flow through).

Avoid having too many people present during inspections. Be courteous but don't force conversation with a potential buyer. The prospective purchaser wants to inspect your home - not pay a social call.

As a general rule it is advisable to turn off radio and television sets during inspections as they can be very distracting. Keep your pets out of the way (preferably out of the house). Let the buyer and agent talk, free of disturbances.

Don't apologise for the appearance or condition of your home (this does nothing but emphasise the faults). Don't discuss the details of the transaction or allow a prospective purchaser to inspect your home without your agent.