When showing a house or apartment, the first impression you leave on potential buyers is crucial. For a buyer to truly envision themselves living there and feel convinced, each visit deserves to be prepared with care — that attention to detail will clearly help you speed up the sale and secure the best possible price! To turn a simple visit into a genuine trigger for purchase, here are some easy and effective tips.
1. Exterior Preparation: The Curb Appeal
The visit begins before the buyer even steps through your door — and once you understand this, you maximize your chances of selling quickly and at the best price. In other words, the exterior appearance, known as curb appeal, greatly influences the buyer’s mindset… That’s why it should never be overlooked!
Make sure the entrance is always spotless, and keep your garden well maintained: mow the lawn, weed the paths, and trim the bushes.
You can also make a few adjustments to the facade and front door: a quick wash or fresh coat of paint can make a big difference. Don’t forget to clean the windows or repaint the shutters if they’re looking tired.
If you’re welcoming potential buyers in the evening, create a warm and inviting atmosphere by turning on your outdoor lighting if you have any.
When it comes to curb appeal and outdoor presentation, there’s only one rule: the very first glance should make people want to step inside.
“The very first glance should make people want to step inside.”
2. The Art of Subtle and Effective Home Staging
When you begin home staging, the goal isn’t to hide flaws but rather to help the buyer envision the potential of the space — with complete transparency.
- Declutter as much as possible by removing about 50% of your personal items: family photos, trinkets, and various collections. Simply “clearing out” the space creates a sense of openness. Buyers will also appreciate being able to better perceive the room’s proportions.
- Depersonalize the decor, as your personal style might block the buyer’s imagination. In this sense, every detail matters: household linens, for example, should be spotless and ideally in neutral tones.
- Clean thoroughly: cleanliness and even smells can completely change a buyer’s perception. Once you’ve carefully cleaned floors, windows, and any traces of limescale or grease, avoid strong air fresheners, which can bother some visitors.
- Fix anything that needs it: a burnt-out light bulb, a loose door handle, or a dripping faucet… These small details can suggest poor maintenance and work against you.
“The goal isn’t to hide flaws, but rather to help the buyer envision the potential of the space — with complete transparency.”
3. Setting the Mood During the Visit
The atmosphere you create during the visit directly influences the buyer’s emotions. That’s why it’s in your best interest to establish a positive vibe to generate a deep feeling of well-being.
To achieve this, allow as much natural light as possible to enter the home — it instantly lifts the mood. Keep curtains and shutters open to create a sense of space and to highlight the property’s full potential.
Also make sure that the temperature is comfortable throughout the visit. A visitor who feels even slightly uncomfortable might shorten the appointment — which could work against you.
4. Managing the Buyer and Playing Your Role as a Seller
The presence of the owner during the visit can be strategic. You’ll need to avoid overwhelming the buyer with information so they can explore at their own pace, while still being honest and precise when answering questions.
If this step feels challenging or you find it difficult to detach emotionally, don’t hesitate to ask a real estate agent for support. They can either handle the visits entirely on your behalf or assist you with the parts you’d rather not manage alone.
