What do I need to do to place before getting a valuation?

LouBlue

Quick question, might sound silly.

Wanting to sell our flat. Obviously, before any viewings takes place, we want to paint a couple of interior doors to spruce them up a bit, nothing major, spring clean the whole place etc...the usual House Doctor stuff....but to get a valuation from a few Estate Agents, do I need to do all that stuff first? Or will a general tidy up be enough. Just wondered if it would effect the valuation.

Nicki

Most of the EA valuation will be based on what other properties in your area have sold for, so in theory this shouldn't make a difference. However, subliminally it may affect how well maintained he thinks the property is, so could affect the value by a small amount. You should also bear in mind that even for a valuation some EA's will take the photos there and then to save them having to come back to do this (if they don't use a professional photographer that is) so your property won't look its best in the marketing materials if you wait.

On balance, as you plan to do this anyway, I'd do it before the EA comes round, on the basis you have nothing to lose.

SmarterProperty

I agree with the last reply but if you tell your estate agent what work you plan to do, if he/she is experienced, they'll be able to give a valuation based on the results. If its just a case of a lick of paint though, it won't affect the valuation at all - just the saleability. As a tip, kitchens and bathrooms sell houses - and buyers are all looking for contemporary fittings these days.

goldbyron

Agreed with the others - if you have time give it a fresh paint as it may affect the agents subconsciously. Do some research on what local house prices are for similar properties as well so you have some idea of what you want to achieve. The agents can provide a valuation - you can always ask to adjust this slightly although they often have a good idea of the market. Agents valuations can vary however and therefore be armed with the knowledge beforehand! Don't forget to negotiate for a low commission rate by playing them off against each other as well.

jollyanna

I'd go ahead with the painting and cleaning befor valuation. It will make you feel more confident about the flat if you know you're showing it for valuation as well as you posibly can. I haven't moved for a few years but last time round, I decided people may not notice "clean" but they do notice "grubby".