Did you know that when it comes to impressing a buyer, you have just half a minute to knock their socks off?

Yes, you read that right. Most buyers decide if a property is the one for them in the first 30 seconds of a viewing. 

So, with so much at stake in that short time, how do you make a good impression? Read on to find out.

Evidence versus emotions

First, let’s look at what drives the decision-making process. We humans love to think of ourselves as rational beings, but in truth, emotion drives most of our big decisions. 

And our emotions are informed – often at a subconscious level – by our five senses. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to what buyers see, smell, hear or touch when they step through your front door (let’s hope they don’t taste anything).

Here’s a good sense guide to prepping your home for viewings.

Sight – Make sure that the first thing a buyer sees is a clean, light and bright space. Avoid turn-offs such as grubby walls and floors and distracting personal items, such as family photos, clothes hanging on radiators and shoes lying in the hall.

Smell – It’s easy to get used to certain ‘aromas’ when you live with them, so ask a friend with a good nose for their honest opinion. If they catch a whiff of damp drains, pets or stinky trainers, you need to act. Once you’ve eliminated unpleasant scents, create an appealing one using candles or diffusers. Stick to one fragrance – citrus, vanilla, cinnamon, jasmine or pine – so you don’t overdo it.

Sound – Start by fixing off-putting sounds inside your property, such as squeaky doors or floorboards, then turn your attention to external noises. Traffic noise is hard to moderate, so if this is an issue, arrange viewings when the roads are less busy. And if you’re worried about the neighbour’s dog or children making a racket, leave a radio on to drown out barking or squabbling.

Touch – Check surfaces are clean in case a buyer runs their hand over furniture or countertops. Also, ensure your home is toasty. A Harvard study found that when we feel warm, we experience a sense of emotional wellbeing.

Taste – While a buyer is unlikely to taste anything in your property (that would be really weird, right?), remember our sense of taste and smell are closely intertwined, which is why it’s so important to nail how your property smells.

For more advice about marketing your home, contact us here at Cooke & Co Estate and Letting Agents.

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