Take these 10 steps and together we will agree a sale on your home

When it comes to property our knowledge of the Yorkshire region is second to none. If you are buying or selling we will strive to ensure that you get what you want quickly and efficiently.

With around 175 dedicated staff in 21 networked offices over the region, we make sure selling your home is our number one priority. And since we have been in property since 1820, you could say we know what we’re doing.

• Start by looking at the outside of your home. First impressions are very important and the exterior of your home will give an indication to prospective purchasers of what the inside is like. Mow the lawn, sweep the paths and drives, trim hedges and consider placing a hanging basket near the front door or placing some flower tubs at the front of the property. If necessary, paint the front door and polish letterboxes and brass numbers. Any areas of chipped and flaking paint should be touched up.
• Atmosphere sells houses and creating the right feel to your home will encourage purchasers to make an offer. Eliminate any negative smells, such as yesterday’s evening meal or this morning’s kippers, and where necessary place air fresheners in rooms and light aromatic candles.
• Light is important. Pull back curtains and blinds, and clean the windows inside and out. Your home will look bigger, brighter and more saleable. Artificial light is also important, so on dark, gloomy days or during the winter months, the use of table lamps can create an inviting warm atmosphere
• Eliminate any clutter. Put papers in the bin; clothes and toys in the cupboard. Consider re-arranging the furniture and moving some pieces temporarily to the loft or a friends house. Again, it is another way of making a room look much bigger, and maximising the impression of space.
• Always keep dogs under control. You may want to introduce the family dog to a friendly visitor, but it is safer to presume that a potential buyer has an allergy to animals! Put them in the dog kennel, or ask a family member to take them for a walk.
• Gain as much information as you can concerning the amenities in your area. Access to shops, schools, leisure facilities, bus and train services and other attractions will be important to most viewers.
• Realise that it is important to be available to show people around your home. It might be annoying if occasionally they do not turn up and you miss a planned event, but it is a price worth paying for the ones that do arrive. Dacre, Son & Hartley offer the option of an accompanied viewing service, subject to fee level.
• Emphasise the positive features of your home. Economic running costs will be important to a first time buyer, but large gardens and spacious accommodation would be important to a family. Always allow prospective purchasers to enter your home through the main door and at the end of their visit, return to what you consider to be the best room, whether this be the lounge, or breakfast kitchen. First impressions and last impressions are vital.
• Establish a rapport with all prospective purchasers. It is true that people do buy people and therefore, without being too overbearing, be as friendly as possible and as helpful as you can. If any uncomfortable questions are asked, then refer the viewer to Dacre, Son & Hartley who will be able to help.
• Don’t apologise! Never point out any negative features, such as small bathroom or bedroom. Always be positive.

Take these 10 steps and together we will agree a sale on your home.