Selling your home is an art, and your success can largely depend on how you prepare your home for sale. Bathrooms really do have the potential to make or break a sale – a new or well-maintained bathroom can say a lot about a home, whereas the alternative screams pound signs, something no potential buyer cares to see. With the high cost of replacing a bathroom, it is no wonder that how yours is presented could potentially break the sale. Buyers want to see a spa-like sanctuary, a place they can go and relax, so stand in the doorway of your bathroom and ask yourself: is my bathroom aiding the sale of my home?
Unsightly view
We have all seen them whilst flicking through properties online, those bathrooms filled with everyday items and toiletries making the room look far from attractive. That toothbrush in its holder, toothpaste on the sink – although this is normal life, you have to change your thinking and turn your bathroom into more of a chic hotel setting. Every surface needs to be clear, with only a small selection of items on display, such as a couple of carefully placed luxury bottles. Get inspiration from hotels, interior magazines and Instagram, where bathrooms are elegantly staged to create a luxurious space that no buyer would want to leave.
Is there space?
No matter the room, space is always something that buyers crave. If they feel like storage is an issue, it can make them contemplate whether your property is going to be big enough for them. Buyers will naturally want to have a nosey in cupboards, which is why you need to make sure that your bathroom cabinets are clean and beautifully organised. Use baskets or boxes to organise and store items on your shelves, as this gives a clean and tidy look.
Bring back the shine
Of course, a bathroom is going to lose its shine over time, but missing or mouldy grout really isn’t that attractive and will no doubt be the first thing your potential buyers see. You would be amazed how quickly they can begin to question the asking price of your property if they don’t feel it has been well maintained. Make sure your bathroom is cared for and loved, so that when they start to think about an offer, they will want it to be competitive so that your home doesn’t slip through their fingers.
Make it sparkle
From taps to showerheads, from the bath to the sink, every inch of your bathroom should be sparkling clean. Don’t forget your shower door – there are some great tools that can keep this looking super clean. If you have a shower curtain, just grab a new one for the viewings – ideally one that is a neutral design and works with the colours of your bathroom.
Fluffy and white
You know when you stay at a nice hotel or resort and they have those gloriously fluffy white towels and bathrobes? When it comes to towels, you want them looking their best for viewings, which is why at Deakin-White we always recommend that you purchase some ‘viewing’ towels. These brand new white and fluffy towels are only to be put out when you have a viewing, so you know they will always be ready to look their best, even if you have very little notice.
Bring the outside in
One easy way to transform your bathroom is to bring in the outdoors by incorporating plants and natural textures. Plants can also help filter out any toxins that may be in the air, and humidity-loving plants thrive in a bathroom environment. Plants will add colour and personality to a room with very little effort, and you don’t need a big bathroom either. But a swell as providing some decoration they are also known to purify the air and release natural oils – they can even lower your stress levels, which is ideal when you are wanting to soak in a long hot bubble bath.
Don’t forget the scents
Viewing a property is a sensory experience, your mind is soaking in everything it sees, hears, touches and, of course, smells. When you think of a luxurious bathroom, you want the room to be filled with calming scents such as lavender, peppermint, citrus or rosemary. It’s about matching the scent to the vibe and style of your bathroom, as mismatched aromas can confuse the senses. You want buyers to be excited by the ambience you have created.
Every room counts
It is essential to remember, when selling your home, that every room counts. If you take time to truly prepare your home for sale, you will reap the rewards in estate agent valuations and subsequent offers. For more advice on how to prepare each room of your home for sale contact our sales team.
