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Published: 07 February 2025

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Mistakes to avoid when selling your house & Essential tips for a smooth sale

As exceptionally experienced agents we are able to highlight the most common mistakes to avoid when selling your house. 

We know that there’s a lot to consider when you’re selling your home. And there are some easily made mistakes that often crop up when trying to find that all-important buyer.

We’ve have put together some insights to help make that next-life-step run that little bit smoother. So, let’s take a look at some of the things that can be easily overlooked when selling — but are also just as simple to put right before the next potential owner comes to view your home.

First impressions matter

Think about the first thing viewers will see when they arrive, and whether there’s anything you can do to make sure the viewing starts on the most positive note possible. You don’t want to lose a buyer’s interest before they’re even inside.

Nigel Deekes Partner of Acres says: “I firmly believe many buyers make their minds up about whether the property is potentially the “one” within the first 20 to 30 seconds of the viewing. With this in mind, the front driveway, condition of the garden, and external paint work are more important than people realise –  you might have lost your prospective buyer before they are even inside the property.”

Don’t leave clutter on show

Clutter can be a major turn off. When it comes to selling appearance matters. A cluttered and untidy home can deter potential buyers, as it gives the impression of a poorly maintained property. 

Declutter and organise your belongings. While we’re not talking bare rooms and walls here, it’s a given that more of a pared-back, tidier space will help a buyer to envisage how their own possessions might fit within a space.

Chris Harvey, of Acres Four Oaks office comments “ Make sure everything is hidden away when the photos are taken – not only will viewers see your home as close to a blank canvas as possible, but it will also make the space look bigger! “

Asking too much

Chris Deekes, manager of Acres Great Barr, and associate partner has often found that “ Becoming fixated on a certain value that you think your home is worth can put a death sentence on any potential sale. “ According to rightmove.co.uk, 70 per cent of interest in a house comes in the first three weeks of putting it on the market. “ If the price is too high, your property will appear expensive and people will be instantly put off.  In contrast, if your property appears to be really good value, then you will attract lots of attention and viewings “.  The right price will drive competition and create a buzz about your place, which in turn will push up any offers to the max.

Accepting the highest offer not the right offer

In many scenarios when selling a home, especially in a competitive market where the property being sold is particularly sought after, or great value for money it might be that there is more than one offer put forward. 

In this instance it can be appealing for a vendor to simply accept the highest offer but a good estate agent will always advise that a seller considers all aspects of an offer. 

From the desired timeframe and whether this aligns with the sellers plans to whether or not a buyer is actually proceedable, and of course their financial position there are multiple elements to consider. 

When selling a house, it’s crucial to consider the various aspects of each offer instead of simply accepting the highest bid. In some cases, a lower offer might be the better option for a smooth and successful business transaction.

Not accepting early offers

Every offer should be considered on its individual merits. As Matthew Tubb, manager of Acres Walmley says “ Just because it’s the first one, placed days after marketing doesn’t mean it’s a bad one. Many buyers will call an estate agent within one hour of walking out of a viewing to ‘lock down’ any other offers. Or they might be first in with an offer because they have been waiting months for the right house to come on the market and are therefore highly motivated to move. “ It Is not uncommon to hear clients regretting the refusal of an early offer weeks later if interest falls away, sometimes in it is a case of the right buyer in the right place at the right time. 

Showing buyers round yourself

Surely the best person to show potential buyers round the house is the person that’s lived there? Right? Often not. As tempting as it is to wax lyrical about the joys of your home, sellers can often be too emotionally attached to pointing out all the finer details of their beloved home. Having your agent show prospective buyer allows us to take the stress out of your move, and allows the buyers to perhaps provide more honest feedback, people are generally inherently nice, and so often give the impression to sellers of loving a property that perhaps wasn’t quite so great.

Don’t ignore the season

Make sure everything fits with the time of year you’re selling in, including how you prepare your home for viewings. For instance, if the weather’s starting to warm up and you’re normally lounging on an outdoor sofa in summer, set it up for viewings so buyers can see how you use the

Don’t overly renovate right before coming to market, but do fix any issues

While you’ll want your home to look its best for viewings, it doesn’t make sense to make a high-cost renovation right before listing your home for sale. Sharron Smith, manager of Acres Sutton Coldfield says “ As well as it being unlikely that you’ll recoup the cost as part of your selling price, it could end up being something that’s removed by the new owner shortly after you’ve handed over the keys. “

That being said, any minor repairs should be fixed before viewings (and before you have pictures taken).

Don’t overlook your home’s best bits

Got a light-flooded kitchen, or a home office with a show-stopping view? “If there’s a ‘best room’ in the house, make sure this is shown early on, buyers usually make a decision quickly so make sure you set the right impression from the start.

Taking the “I’m in a no rush” approach

While you might be happy to wait for that big offer to land on your mat, if you keep your property on the market for too long, it can start to give the impression it’s a tough sale and will put people off. The best time to sell is within the first three to four weeks, while the house will feel fresh and new. Leave it on for too long and it could become stale amidst newer listings

Article courtsey of Rightmove https://www.rightmove.co.uk/news/articles/property-news/seller-mistakes-to-avoid/

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Published: 24 January 2025

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Dreaming of a move, perhaps you’re looking for a larger family home, downsizing or perhaps looking for something a little different ?

Selling your home is a huge and emotional decision, it can be daunting. Understanding the process of selling will really help ease any stress. In this guide, we outline the steps you’ll need to go through, helping you to prepare for each stage, and potentailly speeding up the process.

Find out the estimated value of your home

One of the first things you can do is get an online estimated value of your property. Enter your postcode into our Instant Valuation here. to gain an approximation.  Our online valuation tool is based on powerful market data, although values do vary depending on the style of house, and variety of properties in your road.

Much better - Arrange a physical property valuation  

An in-person valuation allows Acres to see your property and to get a feel for the space, presentation, improvements made helping us to understand its features so as to highlight them to potential buyers, when ready. Nothing beats having Acres come to your home to have a comprehensive  look around thus giving an accurate property valuation.

Check your mortgage documents

You’ll also want to know how much you can borrow with a mortgage. Contact your current lender, if needed,  to check  your options with your current mortgage, as well as any potential redemption fees. You may be charged a fee if you’re ending your current mortgage early, so need to factor that into your budget. If you have a ‘portable’ mortgage product, you may be able to transfer your current mortgage to a new property, and top it up. It is always worth taking independent whole of market advice, here at Acres we are delighted to be able this service for you, please ask for details or click here to use our extensive mortgage, fees, stamp duty and other calculators

Choose the right estate agent

Choose an agent you feel you can trust to guide you through this process. Hopefully this will be Acres, we would be thrilled act for you.

Don’t choose an agent on fees alone. This is the sale of your biggest asset and you need to have an agent you feel confident in, has a proven sales record in your road / area and have you a rapport with. Their approach, market strength, depth of knowledge market exposure and methods should be just as important.  Acres will of course provide a proactive sales strategy, realistic asking price, and extensive, high calibre marketing. Please contact your local office to arrange a No obligation, Free Valuation  

Prepare your home

Getting your home ready for viewings is one of the most important things you can do, helping to create a sense of space and a blank canvas to help your buyer imagine themselves living there. The better your home looks, the more appealing it will be. First impressions count, it is amazing how many purchasing decisions are made within the first minute or two of a viewing commencing. Location is key, schooling, transport, and the general feel of the area.

Decluttering inside is hugely effective, so make sure it’s looking great for both the photos, and if possible viewings. Many buyers work from home, so it could be worth setting up an office or children’s play room, if space allows. Light, airy and spacious is the look buyers are after, And gardens are a big draw so a good tidy up and you’ll be onto a winner. 

Decide when to put your home on the market

Springtime is the best time for marketing your home. Between late January and June, the housing market bursts into action as buyers start looking for somewhere new.

The next best time is autumn, between September and October, as people hope to get settled into a new place in time before Christmas, and ready for the ever important school pacemnet offers in the new year.

The quietest times of the year for the housing market are in the summer, from July to August, when people are on holiday, or before Christmas, from November to December.

Set the right asking price

Once you’ve ready to market you need to decide the asking price. We will of course advise, and guide however if you feel it right to perhaps try a little higher to give some “ wiggle “ room, we will happy to try this for you perhaps for the first few weeks to test the market.

Nigel Deekes partner of Acres comments “ there is a fine line between a price that will generate interest, and one that won’t. “It’s all about footfall. Price your property too high and you won’t generate the necessary viewings. Reducing later on may send the wrong message to buyers  “

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

You legally need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Your EPC provides information about your property’s energy use. If you don’t have a current certificate, for a small charge we can provide this for you.

How long will it take to sell my property and move ?

Once you’re on the market, the first few weeks are the most crucial time for your home to go under offer.

‘That first four to six weeks of marketing a property is so important,  says Chris Harvey manager of Acres Four Oaks ‘Your property is fresh on the market and it’s the best time to capture the maximum interest.’ Featured property listing on Rightmove, provided by Acres for all New Instruction means your property will top of the listing page for the first 7 day, BOOM ! Statistics show this can treble response compared to a “ normal “ listing.   

The whole process of selling a home, from the moment it’s first listed to the moment you hand over the keys to your buyer takes around 26 weeks on average.

However, selling a home is dependent on many factors and the process can be quicker, or of course take longer.

Find a solicitor

Getting a solicitor to act for you is as important as picking your agent. Once you have accepted an offer, they will administer the sale, and onwards purchase. Acres are able to offer referrals to excellent local solicitors at competitive fees, on a No Sale No Fee basis.

It’s never too early in the process to instruct your solicitor. You can ask them to prepare the contract, and if there is a managing agent, make sure they have the Seller’s Leasehold Information Pack ready, so everything is in place when you find a buyer.  Your solicitor is going to need some information from you – everything from title deeds and building control certificates for any work you’ve had done, to leasehold documents and boiler service history, so it’s a good idea to start digging them out. You will also be asked fill out forms about the property and what you're planning to include from it in the sale.

Offers received

It's an amazing feeling when the offers start coming in. So how do you know which one to accept ? We will advise if the offer is good, and take your instruction on and negotiate as needed with your buyers. We will check the chain, finance of the buyers, and seek to find how quickly the buyer is likely to be able to complete the purchase, particularly if you're in a hurry to sell.

Remember, you don’t have to accept the first offer you receive. If you receive more than one offer, we will seek the best buyer, at the best price and in the best position for you to help you make an informed decision.

Accepting an offer

When you get an offer, it doesn’t mean that the sale is finalised. Acres expert contract “ chasers “ will liase with you, both yours, and your buyers solicitors, surveyors and other parties to keep your sale on track. Be as flexible as you can about timings, and as efficient as you can about producing any requested paperwork. If needed we will arrange further reports and advice on the contacts of any of these. Once the joy of going under offer subsides, you may find yourself in the dreaded property chain.

This is the part when the surveys start happening and the solicitors get busy with all of the relevant searches they need to conduct on your property.

This phase can take anything between 8 to 18 weeks, depending on the complexity of the chain and the properties involved.

Delays in the conveyancing process are one of the biggest hold-ups in the buying-and-selling-a-home experience. 

Exchanging contracts

Once all parties are agreed there will be ‘Exchange of Contracts’, meaning that both parties are legally bound to the sale. Exchange of Contracts is the last stage of the legal process after which you cannot pull out (without losing your deposit and any legal costs you may have incurred).

At the point of contracts being exchanged, usually a 10% deposit from your buyer will be paid into your solicitor's account. The date agreed for completion is then fixed in the contract.

Between exchange and completion, you’ll be sent a statement showing the costs, the solicitor’s charges and the mortgage monies that are being repaid. If you are making an onward purchase at the same time, you may need to send a balancing payment.

Preparing to move out

The move will take a lot of preparation, and one of the advantages of having time between exchange and completion is that you can finalise your moving arrangements. This means you can do things like cancelling your home insurance in time for the move, and make sure you’ve read your meters. Sometimes there can be a very short time ( even the same day ) between exchange of contracts and completion ( moving day ) and so early preparation if this were the case will be needed

Completion and moving day

On completion day, the money for the sale of your home will be transferred from the buyer’s solicitor to your solicitor. You’ll need to remove all of your possessions from the property, apart from any items you’ve agreed to sell to your buyer, as they will be eagerly collecting the keys from Acres, or yourself dependant on the arrangements already made.

Once the cash has landed with your solicitor (it's usually done by CHAPS which can take a couple of hours), they’ll telephone you to confirm the completion and authorise key release.

Tax when selling property

If you’re selling a property that’s been your main home since you bought it, you shouldn’t  have to pay capital gains tax.

However, if you’ve previously rented out the property, capital gains tax may apply and will be calculated based on the amount of time it wasn’t your main home.

If you’re selling so you can buy a new home, you’ll also need to factor in stamp duty calculator here

What are the costs of moving home ?

Acres fees will vary dependant your properties value, and sometimes other factors, however rest assured they will always be highly competitive, and comprehensive, on a No Sale No Fee basis, in other words you only pay us a fee when you move ! That shows our confidence in being able to find a buyer for you.

• Next up it will be your conveyancing / solicitors
• Then your removal costs
• Mortgaging fees
• The costs for any other expenses, such as the EPC or survey
• Stamp duty – Use Acres calculator here
• This of course is not a full list as there may be other costs for your particular sale but these are the main costs

Are you thinking of selling your property and want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.

If you would like to discuss selling your home, please get in touch with us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                  0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                             0121 358 6222

Lettings                                  0121 312 4997

Thank you for reading this article, and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

Acres; proud to be family owned, managed, run and to have been serving the North Birmingham community for 33 years.

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Published: 23 January 2025

Hits: 171

Are you thinking of buying a property as an investment to let out, or perhaps maybe an ‘accidental landlord’. Renting out property comes with many hazards, responsibilities, issues and challenges.

With this I mind we have put together some helpful information, tips and advice.

Should I rent my property out ?

There are many reasons why people decide to rent out their property. The most basic reason is financial. Perhaps an investment for years to come to top up a pension, capital growth, or it could just be a short-term move, while they are living somewhere else for work or family reason. The rental income covers mortgage payments and maybe gives an extra source of income. It could be to begin a business, and build a portfolio of rental properties.

How do I rent out my property?

You can either choose to manage the rental yourself or ask a letting agent to manage the administration and management of the property. You will also need to decide how to offer your property, furnished or unfurnished ( as most are ).

Check You Are Allowed To Rent Out Your Property - Talk to your mortgage lender

Before you begin renting out a property, you need to check you can ! You’ll likely need to move to a buy-to-let mortgage if you have a residential mortgage. Your buildings insurance may be invalid too, or your leasehold agreement ( if not Freehold ) could prohibit you from renting your home. Make sure you check all of this out.

Landlord licensing

Licensing schemes for landlords are in operation in some areas of the UK. These are designed to improve the standards of property management. There are a few types of licensing scheme, for example :

• Mandatory licensing – it is illegal to let out a HMO in England without a license
• Selective licensing – some local councils will ask all landlords in its area to apply for a licence, or to take a ‘fit and proper person’ test

Check with your local council if they operate a licensing scheme. A license will cost a small annual fee.

How much rent will my property achieve ?

Knowing what rent to charge will depend on a number of factors, the size of the property, the facilities it has access to, and the rental price of similar properties to name but a few. Setting your rent too high will make your property less attractive.. Setting it too low could make it more difficult to choose a good tenant. By seeking expert advice from a knowledgeable agent, you can set a rental price that maximizes your return while attracting the right tenants.

Tax and national insurance

Rental income counts as taxable income. Income tax is calculated on the profit you make as a landlord, so you will need to deduct any expenses first. The amount of income tax or National Insurance you pay will depend on the tax band you are in, your other sources of income and if the property is owned, jointly by you or a company

What are the legal responsibilities for landlords?

It is a legal requirement for landlords to conduct regular gas safety and electrical checks on their properties. The Gas Safety Certificate check should be conducted annually by a gas safe registered engineer. It is an inspection and test of all the gas appliances and systems in a property.

The Electrical Safety Regulations require a check of the electrical installations in rental properties every five years. The check should be conducted by a member of the qualified and competent person scheme. Landlords must provide copies of the gas and electrical safety certificates to their tenants.

• Property hazard assessments
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to comply with fire safety regulations.
• Legionella assessments
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): The property must have a valid EPC with a minimum rating of 'E.'

Fire safety regulations

Landlords should ensure that a range of fire safety measures are in place in their property. This includes installing smoke alarms on every floor and a carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a solid fuel burning appliance.

Right to rent checks

Right to rent checks are mandatory for landlords and letting agents. Landlords must ensure that before a tenancy can begin, they have proved that a tenant is in the UK legally, and has the right to rent a residential property. Landlords are liable for significant fines if checks are not made, or tenancies commence with tenants who fail the checks. 

Starting The Tenancy

A tenancy agreement will be needed, and to be signed by you and the tenant. This is something Acres can do for you. Make sure it is tailored to your requirements. For example, if you want your tenants to maintain the garden or not smoke on the premises, you need to include these as clauses. But anything you include must be legal. Most tenancies fall under an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), which allows tenants to rent your property for a fixed period, usually six months to a year.

Ensure all repairs have been completed before your tenant moves in. Leave instructions for appliances, plus any helpful information.

A complete inventory will be needed– photos taken or videos of your property and any items included. Your tenant should sign the inventory to confirm that everything it lists is present and in the stated condition.

Your tenant must be provided with certain documents, including the energy performance certificate, gas safety certificate, Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) and a copy of the government’s How to Rent guide. You must also protect your tenant’s security deposit in a government-approved scheme. This security deposit will be released back to the tenant at the end of the tenancy, provided that it’s not needed to cover the cost of damages they have caused to the property.

Protecting your tenant’s deposit

Landlords have a legal obligation to protect the deposit of their tenants, and return the deposit to tenants at the end of the tenancy, minus any reductions or costs. Here at Acres we of course  will do this for you, you can never ask the tenant to do it. Landlords must use a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme, even if the deposit is paid by a third party such as a parent or friend of the tenant.

Landlord insurance

Landlords do not have to take out specialist contents and buildings insurance for their rental properties, but it is highly recommended that they do. Standard insurance policies will not cover landlords for issues such as tenants not paying rent or causing damage to the property. Landlord or ‘buy to let’ insurance will include extras such as public liability cover, loss of rent, emergency cover and legal expenses. Premiums could be higher depending on the tenants you are renting to.

During The Tenancy

Landlords are responsible for most repairs and maintenance in a rental home. This includes the electrical wiring, plumbing and sanitation, heating and hot water, and the external structure of the building.

If renting out the property without an agent, you must be ready to attend to any tenant issues. It is worth having a list of reliable tradespeople to call on or taking out breakdown insurance to cover you for household emergencies.

Periodic inspections of the property should be carried out to ensure that the tenant complies with the terms of the tenancy agreement. However, you must give 24 hours’ written notice before visiting the property – your tenants may refuse entry if they wish.

What rights do landlords have to take back possession of their property?

Currently a number of options are available to landlords if they need to gain possession of their property, although the recent change of government has meant proposed sweeping changes, which also should be taken into consideration, and obtaining your property back my become significantly harder.

The primary method of eviction of a tenant in an assured shorthold tenancy is through a Section 8 or a Section 21 notice. A Court order can be obtained to claim possession if the occupiers of the property have no rights to occupy; the landlord can agree with the tenant to surrender the property, or prove that the property has been abandoned by the tenant or occupier.

Balance Your Time And Costs

It is possible to rent out your property yourself, and being a DIY landlord allows you to save on letting agency costs. However, being a landlord is challenging and time-consuming, especially if you fit in with a full-time job. Using a trusted letting agent will ensure that you have great tenants, earn the maximum rent and that any emergency and routine maintenance jobs are carried out promptly.

What does a letting agent do for a landlord?

Put simply, a letting agent arranges everything on behalf of the landlord. The agent gives the landlord peace of mind when it comes to dealing with the property and the tenants on your behalf.

Letting agents offer expertise and knowledge in a range of areas. It’s our job to know everything about being compliant with the law, understanding the current market when it comes to agreeing on rental income and knowing how to best advertise your home to prospective new tenants.

Of course we do charge a commission, but you can’t put a price on sleeping soundly – or the knowledge that your tenants are sleeping soundly in your property.

Of course, we do charge a commission, but you can’t put a price on peace of mind – knowing that your property is being professionally managed and your tenants are well-cared for. With a letting agent handling everything, you can rest easy, confident that your property is in good hands.

You must comply with the law on discrimination when choosing the best tenant for your home. Discrimination against anyone based on protected characteristics, including age, race, religion, disability and sexual orientation is against the law. You can find more information on the gov.uk website this will help you understand your responsibilities.

The Benefits of Using Acres Lettings

1.            Time-Saving

We handle all aspects of the rental process, including advertising, tenant screening, and property management.

2.            Expertise

Acres understand the local rental market, all legal obligations, and how to price your property competitively.

3.            Access to Marketing Channels

We of course advertise on Rightmove and On the Market, social media and our excellent web site increasing visibility to all potential tenants.

4.            Tenant Screening

We will conduct comprehensive background checks to minimize the risk of problematic tenants.

5.            Legal Compliance

Acres ensure you meet all your legal requirements, such as drafting tenancy agreements and deposit protection.

6.            Property Management Services

We of course offer full management services, taking care of maintenance, rent collection, and tenant communication.

7.            Dispute Resolution

We will if needed mediate disputes between landlords and tenants, ensuring issues are resolved professionally.

8.            Peace of Mind

By trusting us with the management of your property, you can relax knowing we’ll handle everything with care, reducing your stress and providing you with a seamless, worry-free rental experience.

Costs and options of a Lettings Agent : Click here to see our fees.

• Tenant-Find Only.
• Tenant find and rent collection.
• Full Management.
• Additional Fees.

Using a letting agent is especially beneficial for landlords who are new to renting, live far from the property, or have limited time to manage it themselves.

For further information, help, and of course to book a valuation please contact our Lettings Manager Annabelle Reynolds on 312 4997   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  

Alternativly, are you thinking of selling your property and want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.

 If you would like to discuss selling your home, please get in touch with us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                  0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                             0121 358 6222

Lettings                                  0121 312 4997

Thank you for reading this article, and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

Acres; proud to be family owned, managed, run and to have been serving the North Birmingham community for 33 years.

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Published: 21 January 2025

Hits: 372

We all know how important first impressions can be in life, people, places, smells and the feel of somethings, it a “ gut “ reaction, and this is certainly true when it comes to putting your property on the market.

The initial impression of a property and its surrounding area can have a huge impact on potential buyers.

What is / What does “Kurb appeal” even mean ?

Well in essence its that drive by, first impression; how does the property look. and feel. Having a strong kerb appeal can make your home a much more attractive option for buyers.

Kerb appeal is important as it can be a decisive factor for potential buyers. According to the HomeOwners Alliance, 68% of all buyers say that they are swayed by their initial impression of a property, and that it has a lasting effect on their perception of it.

Even if you aren’t looking to sell your property immediately, giving the exterior of your house a tidy up, or redesign can make it feel more homely and add a more welcoming presence to any visitors, or passers-by. It will also save you a job for when you decide to put your property on the market, as kerb appeal can have a significant impact on potential buyers.

Ways to improve kerb appeal

Revamp the front door  The front door of your home is the main focal point as your potential buyer approaches the property, you need it to look appealing. A damaged front door, or one that is in a poor state of repair will likely be an instant red flag for buyers, and could stop a viewing, or at least give an impress, saying “ if it looks poor from outside, what the inside like…….well, not for me, I’m looking for a well kept home”

Giving your front door a fresh coat of paint can help to bring your property to life. With a nice-looking entrance point, perhaps a handing basket, or some pots, winter or summer, buyers are more likely to have a positive first impression and be more inclined to keep that perception throughout the rest of the viewing.

Give driveways and patios some attention

As driveways and patios will likely be part of the first area people see / pass through, it’s important that they are maintained and kept looking good. Paths, driveways and patios can get grubby over time, so they need to be cleaned every once in a while. For larger areas, it’s a good idea to use a pressure washer to clean off any dirt or grubbiness. Being over run with weeds, also not good, again a few minutes work can make a massive difference to the look.

Hide the rubbish bins

Of course, every household needs bins, but it can’t be denied that they aren’t exactly appealing. If you don’t have anywhere to store your bins, it could be worth purchasing a bin shed to store them in. As Acres will, make sure your agent gets them out of the way for the pictures, and the car off the drive, you’d be amazed how many Agents don’t, thus not really assisting the seller with that first impression.

Make pathways tidier

Similarly to driveways and patios, it’s important that pathways around the outside of your house are maintained and kept in a good condition. You easily can give pathways a clean down with a power washer or a scrubbing brush and hot water. You should also make sure that your pathways are free of potholes or bumps, so it’s accessible for people in wheelchairs as well as families with pushchairs.

Improve exterior paintwork

If the exterior of your house is looking worn or damaged, it is highly recommended that you give it a touch up, or new coat of paint. A freshly painted house can improve its aesthetic and therefore its kerb appeal ten-fold. Touching up the exteriors of window frames with a new coat of paint can also add a bit extra to your home and leave it looking pristine from the outside.

Fix broken gutters, gates and fences

Damaged gutters, unhinged gates and broken fences are all likely to give off a negative perception to any potential buyer, so it’s essential that these details are fixed. Taking time to fix these problems yourself can make your home look more presentable whilst also adding additional security for your property.

Clean windows

This is a simple job you can do which will make the exterior of your home look much cleaner. You can either give it a go yourself or hire window cleaner, either way, having fresh shining windows will add more kerb appeal to the exterior of your property.

Keep on top of vegetation and lawns

Overgrowing vegetation can leave your garden looking untidy so giving any bushes, vegetation and grass a cut can leave your outdoor space looking more presentable. Trimming any tall bushes or trees you may have will also allow more light into your garden which is more welcoming to any potential buyers you have that are coming to view the property.

Refresh gravelled areas

Gravelled areas can easily be diminished over time and can be left looking bare or unfinished. Adding in some new gravel to paths or driveways can add a more finished look to your outdoor area. Using a garden rake to even out the gravel and get rid of any bumps or holes can make easy work of the job.

If you have a visible garage door, consider upgrading it to a more aesthetically pleasing one. Alternatively, you can paint the existing door to freshen its look

So, in summary poor kerb appeal can dissuade a potential buyer before they have even stepped foot in the property. Remember, the exterior of the property is the very first thing the buyer will see. In a worst-case scenario, the buyer may not even choose to go inside the property. 

You are not going to attract the same pool of potential buyers if your home doesn’t have much appeal. Potential buyers could be immediately put off just when looking through the photos of your home on line if the kerb appeal is poor.  

If you would like to discuss selling your home, our proactive approach and ideas please get in touch with us; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                  0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                             0121 358 6222

Lettings                                 0121 312 4997

Thank you for reading our latest article, your interest in Acres, and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners