6 Tips to Staging Your Hall
Your hall is the first room in the house viewers will see when they come to take a look around your property, so it’s important to create a good first impression. It can be so easy to put a lot of effort into staging every other room in the house but forget about the main entrance into your home. Ultimately, you want to wow potential buyers from the moment they set foot inside your property, so here are six tips to help you stage your hall just right and secure a buyer quickly: Pack away coats, shoes & bags: Don’t let viewers trip over jackets, bags or shoes you’ve left lying at your front door as this will leave them with the worst possible impression. Instead, pick everything up and store your personal belongings away. If you’re lacking storage space you can still keep them in the hall but on coat hooks or tidied away neatly in a hallway unit or organizer. Get painting: Painting your hall is one of the easiest and cheapest ways of transforming the room to make it feel more welcoming. If your hall has any walls that feature bold or loud colours then freshen it up with neutral colours and shades instead. You want your hallway to look open, bright, and fresh to create the best first impression you possibly can. Add a mirror: Mirrors are fantastic additions to any hallway and can really transform the space. By adding a mirror to your hall you will instantly add light to the room, making it appear brighter and bigger as well as adding a touch of style to it. Check the front door: Make sure your front door can open and close easily as well as lock and unlock easily. You want to create a feeling of safety and your front door is something a viewer might check themselves. Don’t be left red-faced if it doesn’t close or lock properly, so get this checked out and fixed as soon as possible if there are any issues. Bring some life and a pop of colour: Consider adding a hallway console table filled with chic accessories, such as a vase of fresh flowers, clock or candles. If this isn’t your thing, look at adding some potted plants to bring a bit of character and sense of comfort to your hall. Make sure it smells nice: A fresh smelling hall will instantly give your buyers a good impression of your house. Impress them when they first walk through the door by infusing the space with nice smells such as home baking, coffee, scented candles or wax melts or use diffusers or air fresheners to provide that clean and homely feeling. A viewer can take only a few seconds to decide whether they wish to buy a house or not so it’s important to give them the best experience as soon as they set foot through your front door. Staging a hallway is crucial to making that first impression count.
8 Reasons Your Home isn’t Selling
Selling a home can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want to move on as quickly as possible and for a good price, but frustration can easily creep in if your house has been sitting on the market for a few months. If your home isn’t getting many viewers and time is ticking on, it might be down to some of these factors: Too Expensive: The number one reason a home won’t sell is always because of the price. Homeowners always feel their home is worth more than the agent and market data tells them. But, if you put your home on the market for a price that’s unrealistic then you could have a house that will sit on the market for months and won’t generate much interest. Dropping the asking price, even just a little bit, will attract more viewers. However, it is really important you make sure the other reasons your home might not be selling have all been addressed before you consider changing your marketing price. Photos: The majority of buyers start their search for a home online these days and that’s why it’s very important to have good quality images and video showcasing your property. Some homeowners want to provide agents with pictures they’ve taken themselves but this is always a bad idea and I have even heard of agents snapping photos with their smart phone. Make sure you hire a local agent who has a proven track record in creating quality marketing materials and you’ll attract more viewers to your home. We work with professional photographers on all our properties to guarantee our clients get the absolute best portfolio of photographs possible. Time: When putting your house on the market it’s a good idea to be mindful of what season it is. Selling a house in the height of summer can pose some challenges as many people are away on holiday. If you sell in the middle of winter some buyers will just hold off until after Christmas. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible to sell your home at certain times of the year, it just means that you and your agent need to have have a strategy to make sure you get a result. Too Personal: As a homeowner you’ve an emotional connection to your property but it’s important to remember that your buyer won’t and they might not love you collection of dolls in the spare room or unusual paintings in the living room. Put all overly personal items in storage to allow your buyers to visualise themselves living there. Too Cluttered: Before you put your home on the market make sure you declutter every room in your house as buyers want to walk into a house and see themselves living there. Sometimes people can’t see past other people’s stuff and it will put them off. Ask your agent for tips on how to stage your home for sale, but please don’t take their advice personally. Some of our clients even employ the services of one of our recommended interior designers to help style their home ready for marketing. It Smells Bad: If you smoke or have a pet then you won’t notice the smell in your home- but other people coming into your home will and it can really put buyers off. Before showing your house, deep clean your carpets, dispose of any rubbish and freshen up fabrics with odour eaters. On the day of your viewings don’t cook food that have strong smells, instead use scented candles and diffusers and open your windows to allow fresh air in. You Won’t do Repairs: Homeowners are often left horrified if their agent suggests they might have to give their home a lick of paint or fix those DIY jobs that they’ve been ignoring for years. However, you want to make a good first impression on potential buyers and if your home is a bit tired then that will leave people with the wrong impression. Consider your buyers point of view, they are most likely searching for their ‘dream home’, is that likely going to be one that comes with a ready made to-do list? Low Showing Availability: It can be incredibly annoying having to keep your home tidy all the time and to have strangers walking through your home constantly, but you have to make your home available for viewings as much as possible. If you decline too many showings then you could end up missing out on the perfect buyer. Allow your agent to show the home when you’re at work and at weekends. Also, ask them to give you 24 hours notice. One of the ways we deal with this is by pre-planning viewings and booking them in blocks, allowing us to minimalise disruption to you. Don’t let your listing gather dust, make sure you avoid these 8 mistakes and you’ll have a home that will sell in no time. Thinking of selling? Get in touch today for a FREE home valuation.
Boost Your Home’s Value This Winter
As the temperatures drop, it’s a perfect time to make your home cozier and more valuable. Here are *3 essential tips* to help you improve your home’s worth this winter: 1. *Energy-Efficient Upgrades:* Installing energy-efficient features like insulation, windows, or a smart thermostat can save money on utility bills and increase your home’s value. 2. *Cosmetic Refresh:* A fresh coat of paint, updated fixtures, and minor repairs can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your home. 3. *Curb Appeal Matters:* Don’t forget about your home’s exterior! Maintain your landscaping and add seasonal decor to create an inviting first impression. Ready to boost your home’s value this winter? Start now! ❄️💰 #WinterHomeImprovement #HomeValueBoost #RealEstateTips When you’re getting ready to sell your home, it’s important to make a list of things that need to be fixed and things that can wait. Not everything needs to be fixed before you sell, and in some cases, it’s not worth the money or hassle. Here are a few tips on how to decide what not to fix: 🛠️ Make a list of priorities. Fix the things that are most important to buyers, like broken windows or a roof that’s in need of repair. 🛠️ Consider the cost. If the repairs are going to cost more than 10 percent of the home’s value, it might not be worth it. 🛠️ Think about the time and effort it will take. If the repairs are going to take a lot of time or money, it might not be worth it. 🛠️ Weigh the benefits. If the repairs are going to make your home more appealing to buyers, it might be worth it. 🛠️ Decide if you have time. If you’re selling your home in a hurry, you may not have time for big repairs. In this case, it might be better to do some smaller repairs and call it good. Making a decision about what not to fix when selling your home can be difficult, but following these tips should help make it a little easier.
9 Staging Secrets to Get Your Home Sold
Staging your house for sale can make a huge difference to the offer you receive and the length of time it sits on the market. In fact the latest statistics suggest a staged home will sell on average 25% quicker than one that hasn’t been. So, here are 9 staging secrets to get your home sold: Declutter Your Spaces: When you say declutter to someone the first thing that springs to mind is clearing out wardrobes or kitchen cupboards. But have you ever thought of decluttering your furniture? A professional stager actually removes half a homeowner’s furniture to make a house look bigger. So have a look around and see what you can throw out, pack away or pop into storage for a few months. Group Your Furniture: A common staging misconception is that pushing your furniture up against a wall instantly makes the room look bigger. However, the truth is, to make your room look bigger and more inviting then it’s best to float your furniture in each room away from the walls. Just remember to make sure that your furnishings are placed where traffic can still flow through the room. Transform Spare Rooms: Get rid of that spare room that has only ever collected boxes or other junk and turn it into something functional. Make it into an extra bedroom, a home office or reading room. Buyers want to see themselves living in the property and this helps them to do that. Great Lighting: Great lighting is a must when you’re staging your home for sale. You can flood a room with natural light if you put mirrors on the walls opposite light sources. Also, make sure you include table lamps and floor lights in your rooms as that creates ambient lighting. Never use the light in the middle of your room as your main source of light as it won’t show your room off to its best. Go Neutral: If you’ve a bright pink room or have invested in wallpaper that has a unique pattern then a fresh lick of paint can go a long way. Off-white, creams and neutral soft greys can transform your home into a modern fresh canvas for a potential buyer. If you do want to be a bit bold then please make sure it’s only on a feature wall. Use Your Garden: Fancy flowers and floral arrangements can be pricey but you can get the same effect with a simple bunch of flowers from the supermarket or by picking some flowers from your garden. Just keep the arrangement simple and throw in a little bit of colour. Flowers can instantly bright up a room. Quick Kitchen Facelift: Give your kitchen an instant facelift by painting cabinet doors or drawers or by vinyl wrapping them. It’s a cost effective solution and the results can be incredible. Also, tackle your bathroom by freshening up the grouting or sealant for quick results. Finish Those Repairs: Unfinished home repairs can really put off potential home buyers. If you need to touch up the paintwork on a chipped banister or replace a wonky door handle then please do it. Don’t give a buyer ammunition to negotiate a lower price for your home. So finish those repairs you’ve been meaning to do for years and you’ll reap the rewards. Clean Your Home: We’ve saved the best for last because this is the most important tip- clean your house from top to bottom. A dirty house is a massive turn off for potential buyers. Make sure your home is spotless, scrub the kitchen and bathrooms and eliminate any odours- especially if you’ve pets or smoke. If you can afford it then get professional cleaners to come in and blitz the place, as buyers want a nice, fresh welcoming home they can see themselves building a life in. So, there we have it, just a few simple, affordable tips that can make a huge difference to the sale of your house. Thinking of selling? Get in touch today for a FREE home valuation.
6 Ways to Sell Your Home Quickly at Christmas
Christmas is a magical time of year. However, if you’re trying to sell your home during the holidays, it can also be a bit stressful. After all, most people are more focused on spending time with family and friends and enjoying the festive season than they are on buying a new home. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help make your home more appealing to potential buyers during the holiday season. From decorating your home in a festive way to offering incentives, there are plenty of ways to make your home stand out from the rest. Here are 8 tips for selling your home quickly during the holidays: 1. Get your home in tip-top shape: This is the time of year when buyers are looking for move-in ready homes. Take care of any outstanding repairs, give your home a fresh coat of paint, and make sure the landscaping is neat and tidy. 2. De-clutter and de-personalise: Buyers want to be able to envision themselves in your home, and that’s tough to do when your personal belongings are everywhere. Put away family photos, clear off countertops, and make sure closets and cabinets are organized. 3. Stage your home for the holidays: This is the time of year when people are looking for cozy homes they can settle into for the winter months. Make sure your home looks warm and inviting by adding festive touches like holiday decorations, scented candles, or a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter. 4. Highlight any special features of your home that would be perfect for the holidays: Do you have a fireplace? Mention it in your listing! Is your kitchen big enough to accommodate a large Christmas dinner? Be sure to mention that as well! Whatever makes your property unique, make sure you highlight it so that potential buyers can see how perfect it would be for their holiday needs. 5. Create Great Kerb Appeal: First impressions matter, especially when selling your home during the holidays. Take some time to spruce up your curb appeal with festive holiday decorations. This will help make your home more inviting and appealing to potential buyers. 6. Offer incentives for buyers who close before Christmas: If you’re really keen on selling before the holidays, offer incentives such as paying for moving costs or offering a gift card to a local restaurant or shop. This can help sweeten the deal for potential buyers and make them more likely to put an offer on your property. 7. Price it right: In today’s market, buyers are looking for a great value. If you price your home too high, you’ll likely sit on the market for months with no offers. Work with your agent to come up with a competitive asking price that will attract buyers but still allow you to get the return on investment you’re looking for. 8. Be flexible with showings . . Within reason, of course: With families busy during the holidays, you might need to be flexible with showings so buyers can see your home when it’s convenient for them. Being flexible with showings doesn’t mean you have to let just anyone in at any time—screen buyers beforehand so you only allow serious potential purchasers into your home. Selling your home during the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful—with a little extra effort, you can make it happen quickly and smoothly! Just remember to declutter and deep clean before putting your home on the market; create kerb appeal with festive holiday decorations; stage each room strategically and price your home competitively. By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to selling your home before New Year arrives.
10 Elf on the Shelf Ideas to Amuse Your Kids
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your Elf on the Shelf, look no further! Here are 10 creative ideas to get you started: 1. Have your elf make breakfast in bed for the kids! They’ll love finding their elf in the morning with a tray of pancakes or waffles. 2. Get your elf in on the holiday baking and have them decorate cookies with the kids. 3. For a silly twist, have your elf hide in unexpected places like in the freezer or inside a Christmas decoration. 4. Leave a note from your elf with an encouraging message or holiday joke. 5. Put your elf to work around the house and have them do some chores like laundry or dusting. 6. Have your elf bring a new toy or book for the kids to enjoy. 7. Make it a game and have your elf hide somewhere in the house for the kids to find. 8. Mail it in! Have your elf write a letter to Santa updating him on all of the good deeds the kids have done. 9. Go on an adventure! Take your elf out of the house and snap some photos of them enjoying holiday activities like sledding or visiting Santa’s workshop. 10. Get crafty and have your elf create arts and crafts projects with the kids like making paper snowflakes or gingerbread houses. Whatever you decide to do with your Elf on the Shelf this holiday season, make sure to have fun with it! The more creativity you put into it, the more fun it will be for everyone involved. And who knows, maybe your elves will even inspire others with their antics!
5 Reasons to Love Winter
Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of reasons to love winter! Here are just a few of them: Cozy Clothes: You can finally break out the cozy sweaters and comfy jeans. There’s nothing quite like bundling up in your favourite clothes when the temperature outside starts to drop. Snuggle Up Indoors: Winter is the perfect time to cuddle up with a blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and a good book. Whether you’re reading by the fireplace or in your comfiest spot on the couch, there’s nothing better than getting lost in a good book when it’s cold outside. Time to Celebrate: Winter means holidays! From Christmas and Hanukkah to New Year’s Eve, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate during the winter months. Not to mention, winter vacations are some of the best—think snowy ski trips and warm beach getaways. Fun Outdoor Activities: Winter provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities like sledding, skiing, and ice skating. Even if you don’t consider yourself an “outdoorsy” person, there’s something magical about being in the fresh air surrounded by snow-capped trees. Warmer Weather is Around the Corner: Last but not least, winter means that spring is right around the corner! After months of cold weather, there’s nothing more refreshing than seeing the first signs of springtime. So there you have it—five reasons to love winter! From cozy clothes and holidays to outdoor activities and the anticipation of spring, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy this season. Embrace the cold and make the most of it!
Five Reasons Why Shouldn’t Wait Until Spring to Market Your Home
The holiday season is officially upon us, which means that many potential home sellers are wondering whether it’s a good idea to put their house on the market during this time of year. While it can be a little more difficult to sell a home in December and January, there are still some compelling reasons why you might want to take the plunge and list your property this month. Here are 5 reasons why selling your home in December and January could be the right decision for you: 1. Low inventory: During the winter months, many sellers take their homes off the market due to the holidays and inclement weather. That means there are fewer homes on the market, making it easier for yours to stand out among potential buyers. 2. Less Competition: Because so many people wait until the spring to list their homes, there tends to be less competition in the winter months—which translates into less pressure when pricing your house. This can make it easier for you to get a competitive asking price, as you won’t have as much competition from other sellers in your area. 3. Serious Buyers: Most buyers who are looking for a new home in December tend to be serious about finding a property quickly and efficiently—which means that anyone who contacts you with an offer is likely genuinely interested in purchasing your home. As opposed to spring or summer buyers, winter buyers tend not to waste time—so if you receive an offer from them, chances are they mean business! 4. More Time for Moving: If you do end up selling your home during the holiday season, you will likely have more time than usual to move out once everything closes and all of the paperwork has been signed. Because of the Christmas holidays it gives you more room to plan and organise things such as packing supplies, movers, etc. 5. Positive Attitude: Finally, people tend to be happier and more optimistic around Christmas—and that includes prospective buyers! A positive attitude can go a long way towards making potential buyers feel more secure about signing on the dotted line; plus, because everyone is usually busy with holiday festivities, there tends to be less stress involved when negotiating during this period than at other times throughout the year! Selling your home during December certainly presents its own unique set of challenges—but it also offers some distinct advantages over waiting until the New Year. If done correctly and strategically planned out ahead of time, listing your property this month could prove very beneficial both now and down the road. So don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by all of the hectic holiday activities; instead use them as motivation and encouragement towards achieving success while selling your home this December!
Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Tenby is one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Wales, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history, it offers an unparalleled quality of life for those considering living in or near this charming destination. Coastal Beauty:Nestled along the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Tenby boasts breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the sparkling blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. With its pristine beaches and tranquil coves, this coastal town is a haven for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. Spend your days sunbathing on golden sands, exploring secret caves, and taking leisurely strolls along the cliffside paths. Historical Charm:Tenby’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved medieval town walls and colourful Georgian architecture. Explore the cobbled streets and discover the town’s fascinating past, from its time as a thriving medieval port to its role during the Victorian era as a popular seaside resort. The Tenby Museum and Art Gallery offer a deeper insight into the town’s heritage. Activities Galore:Tenby is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 186-mile trail that meanders along the coastline, offering spectacular vistas and opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife photography. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing, while golfers will appreciate the scenic golf courses that overlook the sea. Food and Culture:Tenby is home to a vibrant arts scene and a thriving food culture. Explore local galleries and studios showcasing the works of talented artists, or immerse yourself in the annual Tenby Arts Festival. The town’s dining scene offers an array of culinary delights, from traditional Welsh dishes to international cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local seafood, freshly caught and served in charming seaside restaurants. Tourist Attractions:Tenby’s popularity as a tourist destination means you’ll never run out of things to do. Some must-visit attractions include: Amenities:Living in or near Tenby offers all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable lifestyle. The town provides excellent healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and a range of shopping options. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity or a vibrant social scene, Tenby has it all. If you’re considering a move to Tenby or its surrounding areas, you’ll find a welcoming community, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage waiting for you. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this coastal paradise your new home; Tenby is more than just a destination; it’s a way of life.