Discussion Title: How to carry out a successful property viewing

In an increasingly competitive marketplace, property viewings have become a more important aspect of the sales process than ever before. A good viewing could be the difference between an offer being lodged and a 'thanks, but no thanks' rejection. Some sellers can find the prospect of conducting viewings quite intimidating, which is why we’ve come up with the below list of tips to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible should you choose to carry one out yourself. Give your property the show home treatment Buyers are looking for clean, attractive, well-maintained homes. If you provide this, the chances of impressing are that much higher. Clutter will be frowned upon, as will too much individuality. Buyers will want to visualise the property as their own, which will be much easier to do if you haven’t left too much of your own stamp on the home during viewings. If you can, use as much natural light as possible as this will allow you to show off your property’s best attributes. In addition, give your house a thorough once-over, spruce up the garden, plump up the cushions and make sure everything looks just right. First impressions are, after all, crucial. Make your buyers feel at home Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to house viewings, if you can make would-be buyers feel immediately comfortable in their new surroundings that’s half the battle won. They will be eager to explore every nook and cranny during the viewing. This isn’t them trying to find flaws in your house, it’s just them wanting to make 100% sure that the property is right for them. So give them the freedom to explore as much as they want, but make sure you are always available to answer any enquiries they might have. Less is more when it comes to house viewings – be enthusiastic but not overbearing, take a back seat but be aware of everything that is happening at the same time. Admittedly, it’s not an easy balance to get right. If you don’t feel confident about conducting the viewings, get your estate agent to do it on your behalf. Work out your property’s best attributes It might be location, it might be garden space, it might be a beautiful contemporary kitchen or a grand master bedroom – one thing is for certain, every home has a major selling point. Work out what this is and structure your sales pitch around it. Start your viewing with your property’s best room, to give off an excellent first impression. Don’t be afraid to point out your home’s best features, but do it in an understated, subtle way. Don’t let emotion get the better of you Friendly, warm and natural is the order of the day. Nervous chatter, over-friendliness and mawkishness, on the other hand, will only make buyers suspicious. Plus, emotion and houses sales don’t go together well, so keeping everything in check is hugely vital. Follow up in a decisive manner If any prospective buyers express interest or leave their contact details behind, be sure to pass this onto your estate agent promptly. They will then follow this up and hope to turn this interest into something more concrete. Even if nothing comes of it, it will have done your chances of selling your property no harm. For more advice and guidance on selling your property, please get in touch with Inspired Sales and Lettings. We also provide a free instant online valuation tool to give you an idea of your property’s worth in the current marketplace. https://blog.inspiredagents.co.uk/2015/08/how-to-carry-out-a-successful-property-viewing/