Make the most of late summer to attract a buyer to your home

Being the height of summer, the (sometimes) warm weather and balmy evenings create an all-round feel good factor.

But if you want to sell your home before autumn kicks in, independent estate agents and valuers Harrison Murray have some advice to ensure you don’t simply rely on sunshine and a pretty garden to attract a buyer.

With the holiday season drawing to a close, here are some top tips to help warm up your chances of a later summer sale.

Create a more impressive entrance to the property by removing coats and shoes from the hallway to increase the feeling of space.

Ensure that windows are sparkling clean both inside and out. Draw curtains well back so that buyers can take in the views or your carefully tended garden / outdoor space.

Show off every room to its full potential and original purpose. Although you may be using the dining room as a playroom, clear away toys and set the table to show how many people can be seated. Likewise, temporarily move any filing and home office equipment out of the spare room!

Lighten up rooms that don’t benefit from natural light by adding table lamps and ensure light switches are wiped clean.

Let the fresh air in – summer allows you to open windows without fear of making the house feel chilly.

Keep your lawn in order. Cut the grass and remove any weeds. Some colourful potted plants on the patio or near the front door will add that splash of summer colour.

Harrison Murray managing director Nick Salmon said: “Now is a great time to make the most of the long summer days before the nights start to draw in. As the new school terms begins, many people see this as a time to resume their house hunting after the school break.

“There are buyers out there, so make sure they don’t overlook your home during their search. And if you want to be sold and moved by Christmas now is the time to be putting the home up for sale.”