Your property valuation is important; there are some things you can do to make the whole process smoother for you and the person coming around to value your house or flat. If you’re looking to sell your property to move to a new area, buy a larger property or downsize to a smaller property, you will want the most money you can get. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your valuation.
Tidy and declutter
The property valuer will want to see every room in the house or flat. To do this, they need to be able to access all areas. They will use tools to measure every room as this will impact the valuation. Suppose you have a room that's completely cluttered with stuff; it can make the whole process more difficult. Before they come over, you should make sure everything has been tidied away, and there is good access to each room. This might mean you must spend some time reviewing your stuff and selling unused or unnecessary items. You should do this in advance of the valuation where possible.
Take care of your outside space
Maintaining the outside space at your property is an important part of home ownership. Along with the inside space, your property valuer will want to see the space and features you have outside. An untidy garden full of weeds and long grass doesn’t portray a great first impression for your home valuation. Ensure you take time to remove any weeds, cut your lawn and repair any broken fences.
Have your documents ready
The valuer might ask questions about extensions or any changes made to your property. Find out any documents that relate to your property, as these might be needed as part of the valuation process. Some valuers ask for these documents ahead of time to make the whole process much quicker and easier. If this isn’t the case, having them ready for inspection when your property is valued can prevent further delays.
Do your own research
Finding out the sales value of the properties in your area can help to set your expectations before the official property valuation. It can also help if you want to negotiate with your property valuer or feel your property is worth more than suggested. Having this information is very useful when going through the process of selling your property.
Keep pets safe
If you have a dog or a cat that lives with you at your property, you will need to make sure that they’re kept safe and secure during the property valuation. Some people opt to ask friends or relatives to have their dog or cat for short periods to help the valuation go more smoothly. If this isn’t possible just inform the valuer if you need to keep a door shut to ensure your pet doesn’t escape out of the property.
Inform them of renovation work or features
If you’ve had anything done to your property that you think will increase the value, it's worth mentioning this during the property valuation process. Perhaps you have converted your loft space into another room or recently fitted a new boiler or windows to the property. You should mention any big improvements you’ve recently made as they might boost the valuation price of your property.
Lighting
Good lighting can help the valuer of your property see the house in a better light. They will see all of the great features each room offers, and if they’re taking pictures for potential buyers, your house will look much more attractive in the right light. Always try to book a valuation at the right time of day when the sun is out, and it's not going to go dark.
DIY improvements
If there are any small improvements you’ve been putting off on your property, it's best to do these before you get it valued. Take time to paint any rooms that need a refresh or fix any dents in the wall. Having an immaculate property that needs no work will help with your valuation price. You can also let the valuer know that you have made recent improvements to help with the property's price.
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