Thursday, 21 July 2011

Sell Your Property Quickly & At The Right Price

You've decided it's time to move and trade up your current property for a lovely new build property from Standen Homes. But just how do you make sure your current property sells quickly and for its true value in this current climate?

Follow the basics detailed below and you will be well on your way to selling your property quickly and for the right price.

Before Viewings

Clean. It is surprising how many home owners who want a quick sale for maximum price overlook the obvious. Presentation is everything. Concentrate on making the property look clean, tidy and presentable. Remove clutter and remember kitchens and bathrooms are what really sell a property to potential buyers.

A lick of paint to tidy up tired and old paintwork can really brighten a room and make a real difference but be sure to eliminate the smell of fresh paint before any viewings as this can arouse suspicion in potential buyers that you are covering something up.

Make sure each room has a purpose and clear definition, if you are selling your house as having a dining room and a third bedroom then make sure the rooms are set for purpose. Clear the kids toys and junk out of the dining room and add a table and chairs, clear the spare room/office of all clutter and make it look like a usable bedroom.

Got a garden or outdoor space? Make the most of it, mow the lawn and tidy the flower beds. If you only have a small outside space add colourful potted plants, they are great as they add a new dimension but can be taken with you when you leave.

Show and Tell

If you opt to show prospective buyers around the property yourself remember to:

  • Have old bills to hand to answer any utility related questions.
  • Sell the local area, if you don't have children do research about local facilities for buyers who may have children.
  • Give them space - let prospective buyers take a good look around by themselves
  • Be honest - if there are small imperfections in the property let them know and point out that they have been considered when determining the sale price.

Be Clear and Honest

Be honest with your buyers and totally clear about what is and isn't included in the sale price from the outset. Making a clear list at the beginning of the process that everyone is aware of ensures there will be no problems in this area later down the line.

In the current housing market there is no easy way to get a quick sale and the right price for your house, it can take a long time. A lot of homeowners are compromising and accepting less than the actual value of the property in order to move forward but you don't need to do that. Common sense and the right attitude should help you achieve success when selling your home and will set you on the right path to buying a new house.

Good luck!

Friday, 15 July 2011

Top Tips For Buying A New Build Property

Buying a home is a big step and is likely to be the most important purchase you will make in life. You are going to spend a lot of time, and money, on your chosen property so it is essential to make sure you choose the right property first time.




Buying new build properties is often seen as a less stressful and much quicker We all have preferences when it comes to new build or older, character properties but when it comes to buying property, no matter what type, you should always have a check list to work from to ensure it ticks all the boxes and provides everything you need. After all you can’t return it to the shop once you have bought it.

So what are the main things to remember when choosing your new build property?

Choosing a Home Builder
- Check if the house has a warranty from the NHBC (National House Builders Council) or similar

All developments registered by the builder must meet set requirements and standards of build quality. Each property will be inspected and before a development or property is issued a certificate that provides insurance against poor workmanship, this lasts for 10 years. Two years following the purchase of the property for major and minor issues and the remaining 8 years covers major structural defects only.

Before Committing To Buy - Measure the property

Don’t get carried away with colour schemes and decorating until you know everything you own will fit in your new home. As with any empty space a new build house can appear slightly larger than it actually is. Ensure you measure ceiling height, doorways, stairs and garage space to ensure there will be no nasty surprises on moving in day.

As You Complete - Consider a professional snagging company

Without doubt there will be things that may have been missed or are not finished to the standard expected, snagging lists are part and parcel of new builds. To avoid any future problems it may be worth considering having your new build property professionally inspected by a snagging company independent of the developer. This provides an impartial report that can then be agreed by you and passed to the developer to be addressed.

You’ve moved in - Enjoy your new home

But don’t get carried away and forget about the important elements of being a home owner, remember to get comprehensive insurance to protect your contents and the building.

For information on current Standen Homes new build property developments please contact us.