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First Impressions

Buyers probably make a decision whether or not to buy within the first 60 to 90 seconds of entering a house. The buyer may not even be aware of this decision because it has been made subconsciously. Although most buyers have a list of requirements for their purchase, the decision whether or not to buy a particular house is usually based on intangibles. The place has to feel right. And if it doesn't, they are out of the door as fast as they came in.

What can you do as a seller to make a house feel right? Pay close attention to those subliminal messages, a technique that is often using advertising. Potential buyers will experience your house with the five senses - sight, sound, touch, and smell. Ask a good friend to do an inspection before buyers come.

A property viewing lasts for an average of 20 minutes - however, prospective buyers tend to make their minds up in the first few minutes - so first impressions are vital.
 

Inside the house, good lighting is essential, both natural and ambient, to create a cheerful atmosphere, and colour should be soft, neutral, and easy on the eye. Cleanliness and order throughout evoke a looked after feeling in the home. Clean windows, curtains and surfaces, especially in the kitchen, are reassuring.

Soft background music puts the buyer at ease. Subtle fresh scents as well as plants and flowers add life and vitality to a room. A fire in the fireplace on a chilly day creates the feeling of homeliness, as does the old trick of something yummy baking in the oven. If you have a garden, remove weeds and trim plants and lawn. Sweep paths. Pets, children, and sellers themselves should remain unobtrusive in order to let the prospective buyers view the home in a relaxed and comfortable manner.