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Tips for buyers

Tips for sellers

Jargon buster

Selecting and Visiting The Estate Agent
Look for an agent who has a well established business, good town centre location and who has qualified staff. Ask around for referrals and get a copy of the local Property Guide to see who promotes themselves the best. Visit their Internet site and phone them up/visit them to see what their service levels are like. Once you have decided on an agent, get them to visit you at your property. Determine what their charges will be and what the cover. If necessary, get this in writing. Once you have decided on an Agent give them your house history, warts and all. It will save you time and money in the long term. Finally, have a price in mind but be prepared to take advice — your price may need to go up or down.

First Impressions Are The Most Important
The first time a buyer sees your house is from the outside, so make sure it is clean and cared for. Tend to the garden, wash down the paintwork and polish the door furniture.

DIY
Make sure everything that is supposed to work does. Fill and paint cracks and chips. Make good temporary repairs. In winter, bleed the radiators. In summer wash the windows.

Clean and Tidy
Give your home an early Spring Clean. Do not leave clothes or clutter around - clear everything away. It looks good and creates a feeling of spaciousness. Spray or release fragrance into rooms that need it. Get rid of kitchen smells. Fresh flowers always look good.

Some Like It Hot
Do not let your home get too cold or too hot. In the winter make sure it is comfortable and if you have got one, light the fire. In the summer, if there is no noise, open the windows.

Sellers Checklist
Tick each point on this list, and you will be in a better position to create the right impression to a buyer.