As the vibrant colours of autumn emerge, so too does the activity within the property market. Following the slower pace of the summer holidays, both buyers and sellers are eager to complete transactions before the winter months settle in. But with increased competition during the autumn season, how can you ensure your property stands out? Here are expert tips from the team at Fine & Country to help your home make a lasting impression this autumn.
1. Embrace autumn colours
The transition into autumn brings a distinct shift in the colour palette, and it’s important for your property to reflect this seasonal change. Incorporating autumnal hues into your home’s interior can align it with the season and appeal to prospective buyers. Shades such as cranberry red, Buckingham green, and muted tones like olive and truffle brown work beautifully. Accentuating features like fireplaces, candles, rustic furniture, and even historical elements can make your home feel warm and inviting, even in modern builds.
2. Refresh your garden
By the time autumn arrives, many gardens can appear tired after the lush growth of summer. Refreshing the front garden with evergreen shrubs and seasonal plants, along with colourful hanging baskets, can enhance the appearance. Additionally, maintaining a tidy garden by regularly sweeping away fallen leaves ensures your property maintains its kerb appeal.
3. Repaint your front door
A freshly painted front door can instantly elevate the exterior of your home. While classic shades such as grey or black remain popular, experimenting with brighter autumnal colours can make your property stand out and add character. This simple touch can attract the attention of potential buyers and make a lasting first impression.
4. Align your photography with the season
Presenting seasonally appropriate photographs is critical to maintaining buyer interest. Outdoor images should reflect the current season to ensure your listing appears fresh and relevant. Using summer photos with blossoming trees when autumn leaves are falling may cause buyers to think the property has been on the market for an extended period, leading to concerns.
5. Prepare your fireplace
Nothing evokes the cosy comfort of autumn quite like a working fireplace. To enhance the appeal of your home during viewings, ensure your fireplace is clean and fully functional by hiring a chimney sweep. Lighting a fire on the day of the viewing creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that resonates with buyers and helps showcase the property’s charm.
6. Seek a fresh perspective
For homeowners who have lived in their property for a long time, it can be difficult to identify areas that need improvement. A professional estate agent can offer an objective view, pinpointing areas that may benefit from updates or enhancements. Their advice can be invaluable in preparing your home for the market and ensuring it appeals to a wide range of buyers.
7. Brighten your space
As daylight hours shorten in autumn, ensuring your home is well-lit becomes even more important. Turn on all lights during viewings to create a bright, welcoming atmosphere. A well-lit home not only feels more inviting but also allows potential buyers to better appreciate its features and overall appeal.
8. Stay informed on interior trends
Keeping up-to-date with interior trends is essential for making your property stand out. Avoid dated themes and focus on creating a space that aligns with current buyer preferences. Engaging a third-party decorator can provide the extra touch needed to elevate your home’s appeal, helping it stand out in a competitive market and potentially securing higher offers.
9. Improve your windows
Updating or refreshing your windows can significantly improve both the aesthetic and value of your property. While full replacements aren’t always necessary, a deep clean or a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference, especially as the colder weather approaches.
10. Revise your marketing strategy
If your property has been on the market across multiple seasons, now might be the time to reassess your marketing strategy. Updating your photography, reconsidering the price, and incorporating video tours, including drone footage, can refresh your listing. It’s also important to address any feedback from previous viewings to make necessary improvements and boost your property’s appeal.
Contact us
For tailored advice and assistance in preparing your home for the autumn market, contact your local Fine & Country agent. Our team is ready to help you achieve the best possible results this season.