Imagine this scenario: you’re in the midst of a chain of house sales when suddenly, your buyer pulls out. You’ve already secured a mortgage offer and made an offer on your next home. The clock is ticking, and you must quickly attract a new buyer. Sounds like a nightmare, right?
Well, in fairness it’s clearly unfortunate, so you have every right to be a bit upset but don’t panic! Remember your estate agent is trying to sell your house so they should swing into action promoting your sale again. If other buyers were interested, they may still be around and more will have appeared since your offer. If you are fortunate you can get an offer to replace the lost buyer. If not, then you may well need to go back to viewings. Annoying, but it’s not the end of the world.
So, once the initial worry has passed what should you do next?
Keep us in the loop!
We are here to help, so call us and let us know if your sale has a potential problem. We will confirm the details of your mortgage offer and, if needed, start to consider your options. You will likely find a new buyer before your offer runs out. Most mortgage offers, even when the market is up and down like it has been this year, have a good amount of time built into them. As long as we know the situation we can work with the lenders to keep your offer, or a new one if needs be, on the table for when you need it.
Next, it’s time to reassess your house for new visitors.
- First impressions matter, and the exterior of your house is the first thing potential buyers see. Enhancing your curb appeal can significantly increase your chances of making a sale.
- Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove any weeds. Adding some colourful flowers or potted plants can make a big difference.
- Power-wash your driveway and clear any clutter. A clean, well-maintained driveway is very inviting.
- A fresh coat of paint on the front door and window frames can give your house a new, well-cared-for look.
- Remember, the goal is to make your house look welcoming and well-maintained from the moment buyers arrive.
- Declutter and Depersonalise for the ‘Now and Then’
Decluttering and depersonalising your space can help buyers see the potential of your house. Most buyers have two questions in mind. The now and the then. Can they move in now and then can the make it their own? The less clutter you have the better. There is something to be said for minimal personalisation as well. A few personal items such as family pictures are fine, it gives a homely feeling, but too much could make it difficult for buyers to picture themselves in the home.
Keep surfaces clear of personal items like mail, keys, and children’s toys. Remove excessive decorations and personal photos. Tidy up, cupboards, and other storage areas. This gives buyers the impression that your home has ample storage space.
- Stage Your Home
Staging your home is all about highlighting its best features and making it as appealing as possible to buyers. If you have been preparing to move, you may have started moving furniture around or started packing. It will be worth the effort to put some back to ‘show home’ your property. If you have ever been to a show home, you will know what I mean. They look great, but nobody really lives like that. That’s because they are laid out to show off the space.
Arrange furniture to create a spacious and functional layout. Avoid blocking windows and doors to enhance the flow of the space. Let some fresh air in and use natural light as much as possible. Show off any features, for example outstanding bathrooms or views from windows. Staging can help buyers see the full potential of your home and make it more memorable.
According to many property insiders, the kitchen is the most important room to a potential buyer so pay particular attention to the worktops, let the air in, and open the blinds to create a sense of light and space. Bathrooms and gardens are also tipping points for a sale so make sure both are clean and tidy.
- Stay positive
I know it’s a disappointment that things have changed but this is a setback not disaster. Your house sold once; it will almost certainly sell again. The sale has stuttered not stalled so stay as upbeat and positive as you can.
Selling a house can be stressful, especially when unexpected changes occur. However, by enhancing your home’s curb appeal, decluttering and depersonalising, staging effectively, and keeping us in the loop, you can make your house more attractive to buyers and increase your chances of a quick sale. Stay positive and proactive, and you’ll be back on track to securing your dream home in no time!
We will be with you all of the way, from your initial discussion through to the completion of the mortgage. Whatever happens we are here to make sure your mortgage is there when you need it.