Now that you have that free time! 9 Apr 2020
How many times have you said “I wish I had more free time” or, “I don’t have the time, I’ll do that tomorrow”? Well, maybe now is the time!
Many of us will be in full spring clean mode during this time and for those of you considering moving this process could be a really useful exercise.
Using this time wisely can not only get your homes ready to market by improving its desirability, but you can also ensure that you only move items that you want to keep! Here are some suggestions to get you started:
Jet wash your driveway and patio
Throughout the winter months through lack of sunlight, heaps of rain and cold weather these areas become dirty and covered in algae! It’s hugely rewarding to dig out the jet washer and clear that grime away.
If you don’t have a jet washer try mixing 250ml of white vinegar with 4.5L of water. After the ingredients are mixed, simply brush it onto your deck/patio, agitate to remove any stubborn dirt and rinse very thoroughly with hose water.
Sheds, summer houses and fences
A coat of creosote or paint that you may have left over from previous years can revive woodwork in your garden, improving first impressions.
Garden
Weeding, cutting back shrubs, neatening edges and spending time on your lawn can all give the impression of space in a garden. It may not always be the easiest of tasks, but it is free, very rewarding and a job you can sit back and admire in this beautiful weather. Once done the maintenance is then just little and often. Much more manageable.
Deep clean your kitchen
Clear out those food stores in your kitchen cupboards and check the use by dates, clear some space and dispose of anything you cannot use.
Once the cupboards are bare take time to deep clean both inside and out, wiping down the fronts and polishing the handles.
Follow the same rules with your fridge and freezer. Be sure to get creative in the kitchen with those ingredients you find!
Don’t forget the oven, a bit of elbow grease and some home remedies from the internet can really get your ovens sparkling!
Finish off those ‘I’ll do that tomorrow jobs’
Many of us put up with those little unfinished jobs on the DIY list, these can cost thousands on your sale price. Even replacing a light bulb can make a big difference!
Freshening up the paintwork can give the impression of a well maintained home. Re-grouting around the shower and polishing the taps, can give your bathroom a whole new fresh look.
Sort out your wardrobe
Go through your wardrobe item by item, when did you last wear it, would you wear it again. If you are unsure try it on and you will soon know if you want to keep it! Anything you no longer want, bag it up and keep it until we are out of the current restrictions, I am sure it will be gratefully received by a local charity shops.
Clear out your garage/shed or loft
It’s hard to find the time to give these areas the attention they sometimes need, after all there are often years of build up of items you no longer use. Clear these spaces of what you no longer need, creating storage for when you declutter the rest of your home for photos and viewings. You could offer the useful items to neighbours, these may be just what they need, but remember to clean first and pass along while social distancing.
Take your time while doing these tasks and get the family involved. You will be amazed how much fun you could have, and what you will find.
It is important not to overburden yourself with too many jobs in one go, set yourself one or two jobs each day. Make a list and tick off what you manage to get done. It’s a great feeling looking at what you have achieved.
If you are thinking of moving home once we are through Covid-19, and you would like more help and guidance on what you can do to prepare your property, we would be happy to chat it through on the phone.Here are some other useful articles for you to read:
https://www.heartwood-homes.co.uk/sellers-guide/
https://www.heartwood-homes.co.uk/preparing-your-home-for-professional-photographs/
https://www.heartwood-homes.co.uk/six-top-tips-to-add-value-to-your-home-without-breaking-the-bank/
Remember, your health is important and none of these jobs are worth risking your health or safety. If that hedge is too high, don’t give it a go and risk injury, write it on a second list, make some enquiries for after restrictions lift and wait for the professionals!
If you would like to market your property, we are providing virtual valuations based on a variety of factors and would be happy to chat through how this works, so please get in touch on 01727 638333 or email jon@heartwood-homes.co.uk.
