A guest post by Steph from www.stephloveshoney.com. Steph is a mum, wife and primary school teacher from Cheltenham, she blogs about family life and the great outdoors and can also be found over on Instagram.
Selling your house can be a complex process, and when you have children, it adds another layer of challenge. Children tend to accumulate toys, create messes, and require lots attention. Therefore, preparing your house for potential buyers can be a bit daunting. However, with careful planning and organisation, you can get your house ready to sell without feeling overwhelmed. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this process when you have children.
Declutter and organise before selling your house:
Start by decluttering your house and getting rid of any unwanted or unnecessary items. Involve your children in this process, explaining that less clutter will make the house look bigger and more appealing to buyers. Create a system for organising toys, clothes, and other belongings to make it easier to keep everything in order during the selling process. Decluttering now will also make packing boxes a faster process once you’re ready to move!
Maximise space will help with selling your house:
With children, space can quickly become limited. Focus on creating an open and spacious feel by removing bulky furniture or unnecessary items that take up valuable room. It’s important for potential buyers to imagine themselves and their own families living comfortably in your house. Consider investing in smart or hidden storage solutions or utilising under-the-bed storage for toys and other items to maximise space.
Stage rooms with a neutral and inviting design:
While it’s natural for children to have vibrant and playful rooms, it’s ideal to present a more neutral and inviting design to appeal to a wider range of buyers. You might opt for a fresh coat of paint in neutral colours, or if this isn’t practical, removing any excessive wall decor or posters could help to create a cleaner look. This will allow buyers to envision how they can personalise the space themselves.
Repair and maintain to help with selling your house:
Now is the time to tackle those small repair projects that you might have been putting off. From fixing leaky taps, to patching up walls, take the opportunity to make your house as presentable as possible. Remember, buyers will pay close attention to details, and ensuring that everything is in working order will make a big difference in their perception of your home.
Safety first when selling your house:
As you prepare your house for potential buyers, ensure that it is childproof and safe. Buyers with children will appreciate seeing that the house is a safe environment for their own kids. Secure loose blind pulls and remove any hazardous items within reach. Additionally, keep cleaning supplies and other potentially dangerous substances out of reach or locked away.
Plan for viewings when selling your house:
Having children means being prepared for unexpected messes and chaos. During the selling process, it’s important to plan for viewings and keep your house in a presentable state. If you’re working from home, have a plan for your work materials and technology during viewings. Create a routine with your children, plan walks to their favourite play areas or if you have to remain at home, try designating specific areas for them to play or relax in during viewings.
Keep cleaning supplies easily accessible for quick touch-ups, and have a plan for how to manage viewings at a moment’s notice.
Seek help when needed during the selling process:
Preparing to sell a house can be overwhelming, especially when you have children to care for. Don’t hesitate to seek help from family, friends, or even professional organisers who can assist you with decluttering, cleaning, or babysitting during viewings. Having extra hands can alleviate the stress and allow you to focus on presenting your house in the best possible way!
Selling a house when you have children requires extra effort, planning, and patience. By following these tips, you can effectively get your house ready for potential buyers and increase your chances of a successful sale. Remember, the goal is to create a warm and inviting space that appeals to buyers, while minimising stress for you and your family. Good luck with selling your house!
