A Guide on How to Conduct the Perfect House Viewing as a Seller

When selling your home, the house viewing is your opportunity to make a lasting impression on potential buyers and show them that your property is the one they want to buy. The way you present your property can significantly influence their decision and have a large impact on the value of the property. Whether you’re a first-time seller or a property investor looking for a refresher, this guide will walk you through the essentials of conducting the perfect house viewing. From staging tips to the final follow-up, we'll ensure you're fully equipped to showcase your home in its best light.

1. Preparation is Key

Declutter and Clean: Start by decluttering your home. A clutter-free environment not only looks appealing but also helps buyers envision their own lives in the space. Follow up with a thorough clean, paying close attention to high-impact areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Also if you have pets clean up any animal fur from furniture and certainly clean up animal waste from the pets toilet areas. Its also worth investing in a plug in air freshener to remove those pet odours that you won't notice but some one entering your property for the first time will. Even if they are massive pet lovers they won't want to see the reality of living with pets on their viewing.

The same applies if you are smokers as the smell can be very off putting to non-smokers and you wont know their preferences so worth playing it safe.

Minor Repairs: Address any small issues you’ve been putting off, like a leaky tap or a squeaky hinge. These minor repairs can be quick and inexpensive, but they go a long way in showing that your home is well-maintained. Buyers want to buy a property that has been looked after so its important you project that this house has been loved and cared for. Think if you was buying a car, you would certainly be willing to pay for a car with a full service history, the same applies to the emotional connection when buying a house.

Stage Your Home: Staging involves arranging furnishings and décor to showcase your home's strengths and potential. You don’t necessarily need a professional; simple adjustments like maximizing natural light, rearranging furniture to enhance space, and adding a few cosy touches can make a significant difference.

Try and show how the house can be lived in so the buyer can imagine their selves in the space and it being a pleasurable experience.

2. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

First Impressions Count: Ensure the exterior of your home is as inviting as the interior. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and consider adding a few attractive plants to your front garden to boost curb appeal. Buyers will be looking at the wider area as well so its important you enhance the street rather than drag it down.

Set the Scene: On the day of the viewing, create a welcoming environment. This could include opening curtains to let in natural light, lighting some candles to add a pleasant aroma, and setting the temperature to a comfortable level. If possible before the viewing then open some windows to allow the air to circulate and remove any stale smells.

Background Music: Soft background music can help create a pleasant mood. Choose something neutral and calming to help put potential buyers at ease.

3. Be Prepared and Professional

Know Your Selling Points: Be ready to discuss the key features of your home and community. Whether it’s the recently updated kitchen, the proximity to excellent schools, or local amenities, highlighting these aspects can appeal to buyers’ needs and lifestyles.

A good starting point is what inspired you to buy the house when you first saw it, if you have lived in the property for a long time, what have you done to enhance the property or what would you consider to be the great points of living there.

Documentation Ready: Have copies of relevant documents handy, such as energy performance certificates, council tax bands, and any warranties for recent home improvements. This not only demonstrates transparency but also instils confidence in potential buyers.

4. Conducting the Viewing

Guide the Tour: While it’s important to let buyers explore on their own, guiding the tour can help you ensure they don’t miss any highlights. Start with the best features or rooms and finish with spaces that might be less appealing. If there are areas in need of renovation or improvement then stress the potential that is achievable once the job is complete.

Be Honest and Open: Answer any questions honestly. Building trust with potential buyers can significantly influence their decision-making process. If you are asked a question you don't have the answer for, then offer to forward on the answer in the near future. Once you have the answer, then ensure you have it ready for any future viewings.

5. Follow Up

Gather Feedback: After the viewing, ask for feedback. This can give you valuable insights into what buyers liked or disliked and could help you adjust for future viewings. The Moove platform will automatically ask the potential buyer for feedback from the viewing. Its important that you use this information in a non emotional way and rather use the learnings for any future viewings. Perhaps you didn't fully neutralise the pet odour or the garden was cluttered with toys. If a buyer feels strong enough to comment, then listen and learn from the comments.

Stay in Touch: Follow up with a thank-you note, expressing your appreciation for their time and interest. This small gesture can keep your property in their minds and set you apart from other sellers.

Concluding our Home Viewing Guide

Conducting the perfect house viewing as a seller requires preparation, attention to detail, and a proactive approach. By following these steps, you can ensure your home makes a great impression that stands out in potential buyers' minds. Remember, every viewing is an opportunity to sell not just your house but a potential new home to the buyer.