Nicola Kelland - Selling in Summer

I am selling during the height of summer, what should I be doing to make sure that my home looks its best?

Just as selling your home in other seasons like winter brings some advantages and disadvantages so does summer.
Firstly the heat, if your home is a very sunny home, the heat will be a factor to consider. Houses that are locked up and closed up prior to a viewing time or an appointment will need to be aired. There is nothing worse than being hit by a wave of heat as you enter the front door. Make sure that some windows with security lashes attached are left open, or your salesperson can arrive early to have the house open and ready for viewing prior to the open home or an appointment. There is nothing nicer than arriving at a home to find the doors open, fresh air streaming in and the sounds of summer permeating through your property.

What time and day are the best for open homes during summer?
The time of day should be the best time for your home, but also the most accessible time for buyers to come and view. In some of our areas in Auckland, Saturday morning sport is a major factor with families, so we prefer to do the open homes from lunch time onwards. But for the apartment market, the mornings can be very successful, so tailor the timing to what works for your home and your target market. Mid week open homes are also great during summer, after work the late sun provides purchasers with the opportunity to view at a time of day that often works well for them and also provides them with the opportunity to get a feel for the home at a time they would often be enjoying it if they owned it. Consider having a large water jug filled with ice cold water and lemon slices or mint and clean glasses available for buyers the open home visitors will love you for the added treat.

What else should I consider?
The garden, keep it well watered and looking lush, with freshly mowed lawns and tidy foliage and flowers. Get your outdoor furniture looking clean and fresh to emphasize the relaxed alfresco living that a purchaser could enjoy. If you have a swimming pool make sure that it is sparkling clean not green, not easy to achieve I know with all this rain!  Don’t forget to mange those pesky flies at this time of year, with a good fly and insect management system.