How to successfully prepare a property for sale

The sale of a property requires meticulous planning. This preparation falls into two main categories: property enhancement and legal preparation. In this article, we will primarily focus on property enhancement, which plays a crucial role in attracting potential buyers.

Property enhancement : a key factor

Property enhancement involves putting a property in its best possible condition before listing it for sale and preparing it thoroughly for viewings. It is a key factor that can significantly influence a buyer’s first impression. This first impression is crucial, as it can determine a buyer’s interest—not only during visits but also from the very first stage of property selection through listing photos.

Every property is unique, meaning there is no single method to apply. Instead, a range of strategies can be tailored to suit the specific characteristics of each property. Here are some key aspects to consider when enhancing your property for sale:

1. Tidying up and decluttering

A cluttered property can appear smaller and less attractive. So it’s crucial to effectively de-clutter and tidy the property before showing it to potential buyers. This may involve:

Tidy up each room carefully, removing any superfluous or cumbersome items.
Rid living spaces of unnecessary clutter to create a feeling of space and clarity.
Organize closets and storage spaces to show buyers their maximum potential.
Spend time cleaning and decluttering less visible areas, such as basements, attics and garages.

2. Refurbishment work

Refurbishment work, such as painting, repointing or replacing worn floor coverings, can considerably improve the overall appearance of the property. These relatively inexpensive investments can have a significant impact on buyers’ perceived value.

Assess the general condition of the property and identify areas requiring special attention, such as scratched walls, cracks in plaster or damaged floor coverings.
Schedule paintwork to refresh walls and ceilings, choosing neutral colors.
Examine floors to identify damaged or worn areas, and consider replacement or repair as required.
Check the condition of windows, doors and shutters to make sure they're working properly, and consider repairs or replacements if necessary.
Don't neglect the details: replace faulty door handles, repair leaky taps and replace obsolete light fittings to give your property a modern, well-maintained appearance.

3. Exterior design

The property’s exterior appearance is often the first thing potential buyers see. So it’s essential to make a good first impression. A well-kept garden, inviting terraces and well-kept facades can help create a positive first impression and attract more potential buyers. Check the condition of windows, doors and shutters to ensure they are working properly, and consider repairs or replacements if necessary.

Garden maintenance:
Prune trees and shrubs, pull weeds, mow the lawn and rake up dead leaves to create a tidy, welcoming garden. To find out more, read our article dedicated to enhancing your garden: Poésie Moderne - Enhancing your garden
Enhancing the terrace : Clean wood or stone surfaces, replace broken or cracked slats, and add decorative elements, such as flower pots or lanterns, to create a warm ambience.
Facade care: Clean exterior walls, repair cracks and freshen up paint or plaster to revitalize your property's exterior appearance.
Enhancing outdoor living spaces: Add comfortable furniture and decorative elements on the terrace or in the garden to create spaces for relaxation and conviviality, inviting buyers to imagine themselves enjoying fine weather outdoors.

Please note that in the case of condominiums, the agreement of the other co-owners is required to modify the external appearance of the building.

4. Sorting and moving

Selling a property is often an opportunity to sort through your belongings. It can be a good idea to remove all items that will not be taken back by buyers. This may involve several visits to the garbage dump, but it will enable buyers to better project themselves into the property.

5. Routine maintenance

Regular maintenance of your property is essential to preserve its value. What’s more, a great deal of maintenance work is tax-deductible. Eligible expenses cover a wide range of work and equipment, from painting and carpentry to plumbing and roofing. They also include the replacement of household appliances and home automation devices, as well as sanitary installations such as heating, washing machines and automation systems like garage doors.

These routine maintenance costs are designed to maintain the value of your property and can be deducted from your tax return.

6. Home-staging

Home-staging is the process of furnishing and decorating a property to make it more attractive to potential buyers. An empty property can seem less attractive than a furnished one, especially if it has large volumes. That’s why it can be a good idea to call in a home-staging professional to help furnish and decorate the property in an attractive way.

7. Visit optimization

First impressions are made within the first 4 seconds of entering a property. It’s crucial that this first impression is a positive one, as it can strongly influence the course of the visit. To achieve this, several factors need to be taken into account:

Luminosity:
Make sure curtains are open, blinds are up and lights are on. We do not recommend trying to conceal the environment in which the property is located, for example by lowering the blinds on a window if there is an opposite view.
The scent: Scent is the first thing you feel when you enter a place. It is therefore advisable to avoid the use of perfumes or essential oils, which may be too strong or displeasing to some. The property should be well ventilated before the visit.
Owners' presence :
This can sometimes make buyers feel uncomfortable. It is therefore advisable to let the broker conduct the visit with the customer and, if possible, to be absent during the visit. This will enable the customer to express himself properly and be transparent with the broker during the visit.

In summary, property enhancement is a crucial step in maximizing its value and market appeal. By following the steps and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll increase your chances of selling your property successfully. From enhancing interior and exterior spaces to using home staging, every aspect of preparation is essential to attracting potential buyers.

The Poli Real Estate team is at your disposal to offer real estate consulting services, property valuations and to accompany you through the process of promoting and selling your property. Let’s work together to make your real estate projects a reality.