"What makes so many South African homes more attractive to buyers at this time of year, is that when the weather is warm, their potential for indoor/outdoor entertainment-orientated lifestyles can be capitalised on - and shrewd sellers do exactly this by opening patio doors and putting umbrellas and outdoor furniture in place.
"They will also spend time and money ensuring that outdoor braai facilities are spick and span and that the garden has flowering plants and shrubs. The pool should of course be in sparkling condition and all curbside plants and fencing must be neat and attractive." With the coming of summer buyers become especially aware of the need for shaded spots in the garden and on patios.
"Home owners who have not invested in small trees and big shrubs during their time in the home may have to take quick remedial measures in the run up to the sale," says Clarke. "A few hundred rand spent on medium sized trees and shrubs as well as on repainting and transforming the look of the home and the garden, and any sums spent on watering the lawn and the plant beds regularly, will be worth their while. A lush green lawn is a huge draw card to buyers. Conversely, few things are more off-putting than a dry, barren garden."
In his experience all cash spent in making a home more presentable to potential buyers is almost invariably amply recovered in the increased sale price. "Many years of staging show houses have shown me that potential buyers respond very warmly to a home that, whatever its price, gives the feeling of having been cared for - it must have a happy vibe. Any sign of neglect, whether it be flaking paint, crumbling window putty, a sagging fence or cracked tiles has the opposite effect. If you are a seller, do take time to ensure that your property is looking good before you allow the agent to bring in potential buyers," he concludes.
