Dolan Property
Your trusted Marbella real estate agent and property specialist on the Golden Mile.
Top tips to help sell your home in 2023 ….
9th January 2023
By Michael Dolan
It could be because the new year is traditionally the time for fresh starts; or maybe because most of us have just spent an extended period at home (not working) over the festive season. Whatever is the ultimate determining factor, January always seems to be a busy time with people making the decision to buy or sell property and move house.
You have made the decision to sell your house, now you will want to get the best deal possible. To achieve this, you will need to make your house stand out; ideally, whilst paying out a minimum to do so. If you take a little time to get your home ready to sell, you could be rewarded with a faster sale, and in some cases even a higher sale price.
Here are some of our top tips to prepare your home for a sale.
- Declutter, declutter, declutter.
Now is the time to put into practice everything you learnt watching "Tidying Up with Marie Kondo" on Netflix during lockdown. Potential buyers like to envision a property with their own stamp on it, which is made much easier if they can see a blank canvas.
Put away any nick-nacks, books, CDs, DVDs you may have on display. It is also worth looking at removing personal photos or pictures. In the kids’ rooms tidy away toys, take down any posters. In the kitchen, clear the work surfaces, making sure they are free from utensils, chopping boards etc. Having clear and tidy surfaces will also make the space look bigger.
Working along similar lines in a bid to maximise space, look at folding down big tables; removing, or moving around very large items of furniture; strategically placing mirrors so that the reflection positively highlights the space and size; anything else you can think of that will give your rooms an open feel, and a minimalist look.
- Tackle repairs and upgrades.
Once your space has been decluttered, it is time to look at all those little jobs you’ve been putting off. The door that has been wonky on its hinge for months (if not years), or the leaking tap in the bathroom – now is the time to fix it.
It is also worth noting if there are any touch ups that could be made to paintwork, is there anywhere where your young artists may have been practising their crayon work? Holes that need filling in and painting over. Any light fittings that need repairing, changing missing, and broken light bulbs. Look at replacing chipped or cracked toilet seat covers.
You also might want to consider minor renovations that could add value, or boost the sales appeal, for a minimal cost outlay. For instance, if you have a feature wall in a very bold or bright colour, it may be an idea to paint it over in a neutral colour.
If you are limited in what you can do, or afford, then focus on the entrance, hallway, and reception rooms, specifically the areas any viewers will see first.
- Deep clean the interior.
Once the clutter has gone and any repairs are done, move onto a thorough deep cleaning. Some people hire professional cleaners to come in and do this job, and it is worth the expense. Nothing distracts prospective buyers more than dirt, dust, or a weird smell.
A deep clean will have the benefit of giving the house a fresh smell. In addition, consider investing in some air fresheners, though avoid anything too overbearing. A light scent such as citrus works well.
Cleaning windows ensures that plenty of light can get in, giving your home a light and airy feel.
- Smarten up the exterior.
Bear in mind first impressions count, and any prospective buyer is going to see the outside first, so give your house curb appeal.
That means smartening up the exterior. Mow the lawn; sweep up leaves; get rid of dead or dying plants. If possible, move bins out of sight; clear out gutters and drains. Clean windows, shutters, windowsills, and polish up any metal on the front door.
- Pick the right team to help you sell.
Top of the list is to find yourself an experienced local real estate agent. They will have the know-how to ensure you set the right selling price, be able to market the property to potential buyers, and assist with any viewings and negotiations. They will also have inside knowledge of the local property market and know who to go to get things done efficiently and quickly.
Next is a good lawyer. You don’t legally require a solicitor in Spain to buy or sell a property, but it is a good idea. They will advise you on all aspects of the sale and oversee the administration and paperwork.
Here in Spain, you are legally required to have a notary. The final contract of sale and/or the title deed is signed in front of them. They also manage all the paperwork, taxes and notify the registry office that a sale has taken place. They are there to make sure everything is done correctly and in accordance with the law.
Property Sales in Marbella
Here at Dolan Property, we have been looking after all your real estate needs since 2009. We are actively looking for all types of new properties; apartments, villas, townhouses; for our buyers.
We are based in the heart of Marbella’s Golden Mile and specialise in high quality, desirable properties in prime residential locations; Nagüeles, Sierra Blanca, Cascada de Camoján, East and West Marbella, Istan Road, Nueva Andalucia, and the new Golden Mile in Estepona.
We understand that choosing a new home is a big step, and for those of you buying or selling a property in a foreign country, it can be very stressful. Our team of real estate experts provide a full ‘hands on’ service, we work in partnership with you (our client), your lawyer and any other professional advisers or consultants. Dolan Property is here to help you through the whole process, every step of the way.
Dolan Property specialists are committed to the highest levels of business and ethical standards, and we are proud members of the Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA).
