Welcome to our new HSPC feature where we catch up with our solicitor firms to give you valuable information and advice for everything property in the Highlands.

This month, we have Rhiannon McGee from South Forrest to offer her expert tips on preparing your home for sale.

Finding an agent who is the right fit for you is the first step for a successful sale, selling your home is a big deal and the process can be daunting. You want to ensure you have a good relationship with your agent and the process is as stress free as possible. Do your research on your local agents and arrange pre-sale appointments where the agent will explain the process, what they offer and how they can assist you in the sales process. You can contact more than one agent and then compare who you feel best suits your needs.

The next step in a successful sale is to prepare your home for viewings. First impressions are hugely important when it comes to selling your property. Think about what impresses you when you’re viewing and implement that into
your own home where you can.

Ensure everything is clean, neat and tidy. Declutter as much as possible, if you have extra furniture that you don’t need or want then sell or donate it, this will showcase the space you have. Remove personal items such as family photos. This will be helpful for potential purchasers to envision themselves and their own belongings more easily in the property. Try not to put everything in a cupboard – viewers may well want to see the space inside. Selling your home is the perfect motivation to have a clear out. If you can, get round to finishing off all the odd jobs you haven’t had time to do such as touching up any paint work or resealing/grouting your bath or shower or even a deep clean of carpets. If you have pets, it’s helpful to be mindful that not everyone likes animals, and some people may have allergies. If possible, ensure your pets are not in the property whilst viewings are taking place, put any food/water bowls away.

Heating or cooling your home to an appropriate temperature for viewings can make your home more inviting, so either pop the heating on before viewers arrive or let some fresh air in, this will also keep everyone comfortable. The outside of your home is just as important as the inside. To improve the 'Kerb Appeal' of your property, cut the grass, trim hedges, and weed the garden. If you have plant pots or flower beds make sure they are tended to.

Now that you have prepared your home and instructed your chosen agent, you will be ready to get your property on the market. Following these steps will help to secure you a successful sale and take the next step on the property ladder.