Home preparation tips to present your home in showroom condition

There are some time-proven techniques and strategies to use to ensure that any home in any suburb attracts a premium price. Here are seven home preparation tips that will assist you to present your home in showroom condition and ensure a sale at the highest price in the market and in the shortest available time.

1. Cleanliness is considered the no.1 priority. In particular, certain areas of the home are more important than others. Bathrooms, Kitchens and Dining areas are essential and will be scrutinised by buyers. Any hint of oil, grease or grime should be removed. Ovens and Hobs with their extractor fans should be spotless. Pools should be sparkling and inviting.

2. De-clutter. Start by throwing out everything you have not used in the last two years. Remove most of the clutter hiding in your garage.

3. Re-paint. Painting in a light, white to off-white tone will be the quickest and most cost-effective way to immediately elevate a property and present it as a clean, crisp white box ? allowing the purchaser to consider it as a blank canvas to put their stamp on. Keep ceilings white. Change dark doors and shirtings to white. Keep ceilings white. Signature walls in a darker colour can work but get some independent professionals to advise first. As a general rule spaces that appear light and bright are going to be more desirable to the overall buying public.

4. Sense of Arrival is important and something to be carefully considered. Remove trellidoors (in most markets we serve they detract value rather than add value) and unsightly security barriers. If required replace security barriers with designer versions that provide both form and function. The way the signage is done for the home number close to the front door, the colour of the door and the display wall at the approach to a front door all require some intelligent thought. Manicured gardens, lawns, pot plants and general landscaping can add significant value. It is uncanny how many people make their decision to purchase a property within 10 seconds of entering the home. First impressions count and these are formed immediately on arrival.

5. Create distinctive elements that capture the imagination of the buyer. These can range from a beautiful glass tile splashback in the kitchen to striking light fittings to inviting benches in the garden.

6. Upgrade and throw out. If carpets are old and dirty rip them out and replace them with a professionally chosen floor covering. Wide light oak wooden floors can transform a space. Over-sized tiles can immediately add a dimension of quality. Does it warrant spending the money in preparation for a sale? In most cases, it is an easy Yes.

7. Inspire through Décor and Design. Elevate the experience of a home to present it as a dream home for somebody. Rugs, scatter cushions, décor items and artwork can make the home "pop" and lead the prospective buyer to make you an offer you cannot refuse.