How To Prepare A Home For Sale During A Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused chaos in almost every corporate market, including the property sector.
House sales have been on hold for many weeks, but now that the lockdown has been partially lifted, sellers can get their homes back on the market and deals can continue.
Just because the market has restarted, that doesn’t mean that everything is going to be the same as before. In fact, the landscape of home sales in the UK has changed dramatically since the beginning of 2020, with many sellers and buyers facing financial hardship and other challenges.
With house prices falling slightly, estate agents need to be proactive if they want to sell their client’s homes and help get the property market back on track.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of practical tips to help you boost your chances of selling the houses you are responsible for, despite the challenges you face.
Make Sure The Property Is Presentable
A basic principle that applies now more than ever, kerb appeal and general cleanliness are vital to selling any home, especially during a pandemic. Anyone who is visiting the house in person needs to see it in its best light. For virtual viewings, any untidiness will be exacerbated by the camera.
As such, you need to advise sellers on how to dress their property and keep it looking clean and inviting. If they are struggling to find the time, then encourage them to outsource their cleaning and tidying. Remember that it’s not just the inside of the property that needs to be clean; their windows need to be pristine to impress potential buyers. Thankfully there are still a number of services operating throughout the pandemic following the correct guidance, such as CCS window cleaning who are currently servicing the Swansea area. As outlined on their website, they are putting strict measures in place due to the current pandemic including wearing PPE and disinfecting all equipment used. If you are going to use any cleaning service like this right now, you should ensure that these standards are met.
Try To Have The Property Vacated If Possible
An empty property is easier to show to potential buyers, as they will be able to see the space devoid of any remnants of the previous occupants. As such, you should try, where possible, to get the current owners to vacate the property so that you can present it in the best possible light.
If the owners already have an offer accepted, then support them to help them to close that deal and then start showing their old property if they are able to. For homeowners who are unable to vacate the property for any reason, then ask them to try and keep the space tidy and remove any clutter from areas that are noticeable on a virtual house viewing. By reducing the clutter and signs of occupancy, they will be able to maximise their chances of getting an offer and being able to move into their dream home.
Promote Features That Allow For Social Distancing
Social distancing is a method being used by the UK government and the public to reduce the spread of the virus. It involves individuals staying away from individuals who aren’t a part of their household. This approach reduces the chances of droplets containing the virus spreading from person to person.
Features including private, fenced gardens and private entranceways for flats can help new owners to social distance, so be sure to highlight them in your property listing. If your seller has the opportunity to add social distancing features, such as putting up a fence, then encourage them to do so to boost their chances of selling their property.
If you’re keen to sell the properties you’re responsible for quickly and efficiently, then these tips should help you to get the best possible prices and grow your business.
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