Unique & Distinctive - Summer 2024

For owners of special homes in North Devon & Beyond

We recognise that there are some special homesthatrequireaspecialapproach.For this reason we have developed a unique marketing system, enhanced by artificial intelligencesystemsbututilisingthebestof traditional marketing techniques. An approach that is not just different but better. Tried, tested and proven to deliver betterresultsforthemostspecialhomesin Devon&beyond.

Our dedicated team of intelligent, thoughtful and well trained professionals will provide owners and buyers a personal level of service going above and beyond theirexpectations.

Weonlyworkwithaselectgroupofclients at any one time allowing us to deliver a personal, high quality service to both propertyownersandbuyers.

All your marketing, including professionally produced materials, are included for FREE, withnoupfrontcost.

DESIGNED JUST FOR YOU AND INCLUDED AS STANDARD:

A Bespoke Marketing Plan

Professional Styling & Presentation

Professional Lifestyle Photography

Professional Lifestyle Videos

Bespoke Brochures

Copywritten Details

Bespoke For Sale Boards

In a not unsurprising turn of events, UK house prices saw a 0.4% rise in May, marking a return to growth after a brief dip in April. According to Nationwide, this increase brings the average house price to £264,249, up from £261,962 the previous month. This resurgence is largely attributed to improved buyer confidence fuelled by wage growth and a decline in inflation.

Despite high mortgage rates, buyers seem undeterred. The Bank of England's cautious approach to interest rate cuts, driven by persistent inflationary pressures in sectors like services, hasn't dampened market activity. Consumer confidence has noticeably improved, supported by solid wage gains and lower inflation, making monthly mortgage payments more manageable for many.

Over the past year, house prices have risen by 1.3%, a significant jump from the 0.6% growth recorded in April. This trend reflects a broader stability in the housing market, as highlighted by Halifax’s recent data showing a slight 0.1% dip in May, maintaining an average house price of £288,688

For North Devon, the average house price in March 2024 was £298,000, a slight decrease from the previous year. Despite this, the premium market remains robust fuelled by cash buyers unaffected by mortgage rate levels and increased choice, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Looking ahead, the trajectory of house prices over the next six months appears cautiously optimistic. The combination of easing inflation, robust wage growth, and relatively low unemployment is expected to continue bolstering buyer confidence. However, with the Bank of England's upcoming interest rate decision on June 20th unlikely to trigger a rate reduction and the general election in July, the market could face new dynamics.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding these trends will help you make informed decisions in the always dynamic and changeable North Devon property market.

NicChbat-Director Unique&DistinctiveHomes

3PaigesLane

BarnstapleEX311ef

Telephone:01271410108

Email:nic@matchproperty.co.uk

Welcome to The Meadows

"With space to breath and create happy memories...

A Grand Vista

AmajesticEdwardianresidenceperchedonthe outskirtsofBarnstapleinaprestigiousrowofsimilar homesinBickington.Thisremarkablehome,set withinathreequartersofanacreoflush,secluded garden,epitomizeshistoricalcharmandmodern familyliving,makingitanidealsanctuaryforan activefamily.

LightFilledLiving

Stepthroughthestuddedtwinoakdoorsintoan impressivereceptionhallthatsetsatoneofcomfort andelegance.Originalfeaturessuchashighceilings adornedwithmouldedcornices,ceilingroses,and dadopanellingevokethehome’srichcharacterand history,whilemodernenhancementsensureyouare envelopedinbothcomfortandstyle.

Thegroundfloorhasaspaciousbutcosylivingroom andabrightandinvitingdiningroom,idealfor entertainingguestswithitsoutlookfirmlytowards thesouthfacingpatioandgardens.Aperfectspace forenjoyingcosyfamilyeveningsinorhostingabig summerbarbecueforfamilyandfriends.Thestudy andsunloungeprovidepeacefulretreatsforworkor relaxation.

HubofTheHome!

The modern kitchen is a chef’s delight, equipped with granite worktops and high-quality fittings, adjacent to a very spacious utility/laundry room. The kitchen and dining space are calling out to become one open plan space with the simplecreationofawidearchwayconnectingthetwo.

Imagine preparing meals while the children do their homework at the kitchen table or discussing your day over a family dinnerinalargeopenplankitchendiningroomwithgorgeousgardenviews.

SleepTight

Upstairs, the light and airy landing leads to five generously sized bedrooms, each offering unique perspectives.

The principal bedroom includes a chic and modern en-suite shower room, offering a private haven to pamper yourself and revitalise.

The current guest bedroom, come video games room, has a delightful covered balcony, perfect for morning coffees or evening reads, with a picturesque outlook over the garden and countryside views beyond.

MorethanJustaHome

There is ample parking for many vehicles and two garages with further potential for a variety of uses or conversion to create an annexe, if needed (subject to planning consent). A gated entrance and high fencingcreateflexibility,securityandprivacy.

Theextensivesouth-facinggardenisanactive family’s dream, providing ample space for a football pitch, tennis court, and/or a custom swimmingpool.

The full width paved patio provides ample space for al fresco dining, or reclining on an outdoorsofaensembleforcocktailsatsunset— idealforthoselong,leisurelysummerdaysor evening gatherings with family, friends and workcolleagues.

OutandAbout

Locatedinaverysought-afterresidentialarea, thishomeofferseasyaccesstolocalamenities, including shops, bus services, and the Roundswell Retail Park. Families will appreciatetheproximitytoexcellentstateand publicschoolsandtheconvenienceofnearby leisureandshoppingvenues.

There are a wide selection of restaurants, takeaways and pubs nearby. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Tarka Trail and stunning North Devon coast are just a short drive away, offering endless opportunities for cycling, walking, and a variety coastal adventures.

A Unique & Distinctive Home

For more information, enquiries and viewings contact Nic Chbat on 01271 410108 or email nic@matchproperty.co.uk

YOUR PROPERTY’S

ASKING PRICE?

WHEN IS A PRICE DROP RIGHT FOR YOU?

With all the gloomy media coverage currently, if you have had your house on the market for some time without success, dropping your asking price may seem an inevitable, if unwanted, next step. Your estate agent will often suggest this move if they have run out of ideas, motivation and most importantly, confidence in your asking price due to externalinfluences.

But is dropping your asking price really the answer tosellingyourhomemoreeffectively?

It’s true that for some properties, reducing the asking price can generate new interest from buyers who would have been previously unable to afford your home. It’s also a step that for some sellers is, unfortunately, necessary – if they have an urgent move,forexample,orarefacingrepossession.

However, with many houses – particularly premium homes – dropping your asking price is not always the answer, and it can even harm your chances of attractingacommittedbuyer.

Often when we see a pause in viewings, buyers are simply waiting in the wings for an opportunity to view new homes as they come to market deeming those already ON the market as unsuitable. This pent up demand can be a real opportunity if you knowhowtotapintoit.

Of course, you will want to take advantage of this pent up demand, but is now the time to review your asking price and decidewhethertosticktoitorreduce?

If you’re considering reducing your asking price, make sure it’s necessary and the reduction will make a positive difference toyourchancesofsellingyourhomequickly.

To help guide you, we’ve compiled the DOs and DON’Ts of dropping your asking price to help you get the result you want andmoveonwithyourlife:

DO consider a Pricing Strategy

– Changing how you present the pricing of your property can be an effective way to stimulate new interest without changing your target selling price. If you have been using a traditional ‘Asking Price’ or ‘Guide Price’ you might want to try flipping this on it’s head using a pricing strategy instead. Instead of listing your property at or slightly above the price you want to sell for, make it more enticing to buyers by reducing the figure by 3-5% but using an ‘Offers in Excess’ strategy. This onlyworksifyousticktothe3-5%andensureyourpropertyiscorrectlyvaluedinthefirstplace.

DON’T drop your asking price by less than 10% –Or it just won’t make any difference to the interest you get. Buyers will usually look at homes 10% either side of their budget anyway, so you’ll need to reduce your asking price by at least that to get your home noticedbyanewsetofbuyers.

DO ask your agent why you need to reduce

– Your home was originally valued based on sound research and by an expert in the local property market. What’s changed? Understanding whether your agent misjudged the market, or the demand has changed for houses like yours, will help you make the right decision to either reduce or to stick itout.

DON’T keep making small drops in price

– A price drop can cause suspicion amongst buyers who may wonder what’s wrong with it? Why have you lowered the asking price? A buyer may not want to risk buying a house that seems to be falling in value. A property with lots of historical price drops is inherently unattractive to a buyer, as each drop can signify a red flag, so make your price drop big and impactful, but make it just once. Or try the pricing strategyalreadymentionedabove.

DO drop to the next Rightmove price band

– You can find these by going to www.rightmove.co.uk and entering a search. The list of price band that comes up is your guide as to the priceyourhouseshouldbemarketedat.

For example, there’s no point in having an asking price of £399,999 when the Rightmove price band is £400,000. By positioning your asking price in alignment with the search bands, your house will effectively show up in up to twice as many buyer searches. This is also important when using an ‘Offers in excess of’ strategy. There is no point listing atOffersinexcessof£999,999.Mostbuyersat£1Mor above won’t even see this due to the way the price bandsworkonRightmove.

DON’T give your buyers an excuse to make a low offer

– Make sure your home is wonderfully presented, with every room polished and attractive, otherwise you’re literally leaving money on the table. Home styling can dramatically increase the ‘saleability’ of your home, and really helps buyers envision the lifestyle it offers. If you’d like to know about the homestylingweofferaspartofourmarketing,we’d be happy to talk you through it and show you some of our styled photographs. Just drop me an email at nic@matchproperty.co.uk and I’ll arrange it for you rightaway.

DON’T forget to calculate your price per meter squared

– It can be a more accurate way to value a house than other methods. Not only this, but a good surveyor will use a price per square foot or meter squaredanalysistoprovideavaluationtoyourbuyer and to your buyer’s lender. If your agent hasn’t alreadydonethisforyou,makeaspreadsheetofthe other properties for sale and sold in your area and calculate the price per square foot of each, then compareittoyours.

DO remember that sometimes it’s more valuable to you to be able to move on with your lifeinstead of holding out for months – and sometimes years – for a few thousand pounds more. If time is not on your side, whether it’s a selling deadline, or a pressing personal reason for selling in a particular timescale, it may be time to let go of your price expectations, and time to start your new life chapter.

Onlyyoucanmakethischallengingdecision!

When your home hasn’t sold and you’re wondering if the price is to blame, use the above DOs and DON’Ts as a checklist to see if you’re doing everything you can to get your house sold. If your price per square foot/m2 is about right, you’re not trying to break the price ceiling for your area, and your home is presented in the best way possible, if your photographs showcase the lifestyle of your home, and you have time on your side to wait for the price you really want, then have confidence in yourprice.

Becauseifyoudon’t,nooneelsewill.

Your asking price isn’t the end of the story; it’s the opening chapter. Having a strategy in advance will save you emotional stress throughout the process and offers the reassurance of having a plan to fall backonwhenandifthingsgettough.

WOOLSTONECORNER,ASHFORD-PAGE6

Uncovering the reasons your home hasn’t yet sold can help you make the challenging decisions at the righttimeforyouandyourpersonalcircumstances,

Assummerapproaches,it'stheperfecttimeto refresh your home’s decor to not only impress guests but also attract potential buyers. Here are the top six summer styling trends that will breathe new life into your home, making it a chic,invitinghaven.

1. Botanical Patterns

Nothing says summer quite like lush, vibrant botanical patterns. These nature-inspired designs bring the outside in, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere. Whether through wallpaper, cushions, or rugs, incorporating botanical motifs can instantly liven up any room.Lookforprintsfeaturingferns,palms,and tropical flowers to create a lush, oasis vibe for yourroom.

2. Citrus Colour Tones: Greens and Yellows

This season, vibrant citrus hues are making a splash. Think zesty yellows and fresh greens that can add a burst of energy to your decor. These colours are not only cheerful but also create a bright, airy feel that is perfect for summer. Incorporate these tones through accent pieces like throw pillows, vases, and art togiveyourhomealivelyupdate.

3.GlasswareGalore

Glassware is having a moment this summer. From vases to drinkware, the transparency and elegance of glass adds a touch of sophistication to any decor. Opt for coloured glassware to introduce subtle pops of colour, or stick to clear glass for a minimalist look. Displaying glassware on open shelves or a dining table can also create a sense of opennessandlight.

4.StatementPieces

Make a bold statement with unique artwork, oneoff designs, and original retro pieces. Statement pieces can be conversation starters and give your home a distinctive personality. Whether it's a large abstract painting, a vintage armchair, or a quirky sculpture, these items draw the eye and add character to your space. Remember, less is more; choose one or two standout pieces to avoid overwhelmingtheroom.

5.CoastalMotifs

Bring the beach to your home with coastal motifs like shells, lobsters, and classic blue and white patterns. These elements evoke a sense of calm and relaxation, reminiscent of seaside getaways. Coastal motifs work well in bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas. Incorporate these through textiles, ceramics, and decorative items to create a serene, nauticalvibe.

6.SustainableMaterials

Sustainability continues to be a key trend, with materials like bamboo, jute, and recycled plastics taking centre stage. These eco-friendly materials not only look great but also reduce your environmental footprint. Bamboo furniture, jute rugs, and decor made from recycled plastics can add texture and a natural element to your home. Plus, promoting sustainability can be a selling pointforenvironmentallyconsciousbuyers.

>> Incorporating these trends into your home decor can not only enhance your living experience but also make your propertymoreappealingtopotentialbuyers.

A well-styled home suggests that it has been well-cared for, which can translate to a higher perceived value. So, embrace these summer trends and watch as your home transforms into a stylish, invitingsanctuary.

KNOCK DOWN TO REBUILD,EXTEND OR ALTER ?

FeatureArticleby PerryMears-Director

PeregrineMearsArchitects Barnstaple

The British have a real love of property,andespeciallyforaproject. A plethora of TV programmes give us a privileged insight into the personalexperiencesofmanyvaried building projects, of all sizes and types. The constant theme highlightsthesignificantnumberof unpredictable challenges that will invariablyneedtobefacedandthe importanceoffinancialplanning.

NicChbatofspecialistestateagents

Unique & Distinctive speaks to buyers every day. “Looking for that perfectproperty,manylookbeyond the existing, for potential. Motivationsvary,withmanylooking for their dream home, which they feelcanberealisedthroughadding their own personal mark, whilst maximisingopportunities.

“A clever approach can ensure may years of enjoyment in that forever home, whilst often leading to strong enhancement of property values.

There is no single formula for success; different circumstances require different approaches.”

It’s interesting to see this through the professional eyes of Chartered RIBA Architect, Perry Mears of Peregrine Mears Architects. I suppose one key messagefromdecadesofexperiencemightbe“Ifyou failtoplan,youplantofail.”

So is the answer “knock down and rebuild, extend or alter”? “The truth is it could be any of these!” says Perry Mears. “Which one isn’t always initially obvious. Whichever route, investigation and research are imperative, enabling the all-important plan to be crafted.

Counterintuitively, often the knock down and rebuild approach can give more clarity, certainty and can work out to be cheaper. How many times have we seen the scenario unravel when working with an existingbuilding?

Starting one job can opens up several others, not previously foreseen or anticipated; the impact can be significant; in time, to financial budgeting and stress levels!

Interestingly, the choice between knock down and rebuild or improving the existing needs carefulconsideration;it’snotalwaysaseasyasit appears. Demolition and replacement with a brand new design can open up numerous exciting opportunities. Modern construction methods and materials can bring the benefit of the latest energy efficiencies. Accommodation layouts can be tailored to suit, incorporating personal choices and styles. Financial benefits can be significant, with costs generally more predictable, and when building a new dwelling, there are VAT opportunities to benefit from like 0%VATonsomeofthecosts–realsavings!

>> A well-planned extension can make a huge differenceandforsomeistheperfectanswer.The requirement for just a bit more room could be easily solved with a single story extension; this might give you that fabulous family kitchen, the realfocusyourrealdreamhome.Nowadaysthisis thenumberoneextensionproject.

By involving an architect early in your deliberations can open up options, often not immediately obvious. Introducing more natural light can bring so many benefits, high ceilings create a whole different feel. Bringthefeelofthegardeninsidewiththeuseofthe right doors and large windows. Creating the right kitchen can change a lovely home, into a fabulous one.

Extending into a roof, or basement, converting a garage or outbuilding are other things which can be considered. Through their creativity and experience, an architect may highlight numerous others. The key messageistakeprofessionaladvice,andseekitearly.” saysPerryMears.

He continued “Any property project is important, both in impact and cost. Taking the time to consider options, create a plan of action backed by reliable financialcostingswillmakeallthedifference.”

So the answer to “knock down and rebuild, extend or alter” isn’t easy or straightforward, but with guidance from experienced professionals will significantly increase the chances of the best outcomes, within affordablebudgetsforlong-termenjoyment.

Perry Mears

Peregrine Mears Architects mearsarchitects.com

01271 377 776

If you’ve ever searched online for a home yourself, you’ll know how many listings there are. The broader your search terms, the more results are going to come up, and then you start scrollingthrough…

So, what is it that makes you stop scrolling?

When you’re selling, how do you make sure your headline details stand out from the rest so that buyers click to find out more? Importantly, is the rest of your listing good enough to grab their interest andmakethemwanttobookaviewing?

The trick is getting the right balance of images and words: enough to whet people’s appetite so they’re keen to view, but not so much that they feel they’ve already seen everything your home’s got tooffer.

If you overdo the information, buyers could just put you on their shortlist and keep scrolling. Remember, the whole point of marketing is to get people through the door – so make them want more!

Photographs

Photographs are one of the most importantfeaturesofyouronlineadvert.

Around90%oftheinformationprocessed by our brains is visual, and we take it in tens of thousands of times quicker than text, so you really can’t overestimate the powerofagreatsetofphotos.

Yourmainimageshouldbeyourfinestfull shot of the front – and taking it at twilight with all the interior lights on can create a trulystrikingimpression.

Then have between six and ten great photos of the inside and garden. You’ve got to show buyers the main rooms and some of the best features, leaving them excited about discovering the parts they haven’tseen.

Make sure your agent uses a professional photographer who can not only take the shots well, but also work with your agent’s team who are styling your home to create the best possible images. Interior shots look best taken on a bright day, so the photographer may need to make another visit to capture the all-important exterior twilight shots that will help ensure you haveagreatselectionofimages.

Buyers tend to connect with things that are both familiar and aspirational, so think about how different rooms look in glossy homesmagazinesandusethatasaguide.

Herearesomeofthethingsyoucandoto getyourhomereadybeforethe photographerandstylingteamarrive:

1.Vacuumanddust

2.Cleanthewindowsandmirrors Emptyallthebinsandputawayyour half-usedtoiletries

3. Tidyawayanywork,toysandkitchen clutter

5.

4. Havesomenewcandles,plantsand/or flowersinthemainreceptionrooms

6.Fillafruitbowlforthekitchen Straighten/plumpupsoftfurnishings andtowels

7. Takeawayrugs(plainfloorsmake roomslookbigger)

8. Makesureallthelightbulbswork,and havesomespares,justincase!

9. Mowthelawn,prunetheshrubsand flowers,andspruceupthegarden furniture.

10. Thendoyourbesttokeepyourhome lookinglikethatuntilitsells!

When your agent forwards the brochure for you to review, one thing to make a particular point of checking is whether thephotographsflow‘naturally’.

Think about the route a viewing would take through your home and try to make sure the photographs follow that order, as far as possible. For example: the front exteriorshot,thenthehallway,followedby the living room, the kitchen, the staircase, the master bedroom, and so on. If the order makes sense, it will be easier for the buyertovisualiseyourhomeandmayhelp createastrongerfirstimpression.

The written details

Your headline and summary paragraph need to say what your home is, show where it’s located and make its best features shine in a way that entices potential buyers to look for more details. So, if your home is ideal for a family, highlight things like a fabulous open dining kitchen, games room, large garden andproximitytoschools.

Then the bullet points should be between six and ten things that ‘snapshot’ the biggest selling features of your home. You’re trying to give buyers reasons to bookaviewing,somakesureeachpointis arealbenefit,forexample:

Unobstructed views across open countryside

Master suite with private, south-facing balcony

24’ modern dining kitchen with Miele appliancesandRangemastercooker Versatile,open-planreceptionspace Soundproofed home office with separateentrance.

Once people have seen the bullet points and been dazzled by your photographs, chances are they’re pretty much decided onwhethertoview.

So, although they may want a little more information, they won’t want to have to scroll through reams of paragraphs describingeverylastdetail.

The best approach is to have a short and sweet description of each room – the size andkeyfittingsthatwillbeincludedinthe sale – and then any other particular features, like an incredible view, unique architecturaldetailortechfeature.

At this stage, buyers really don’t need to know how many sockets or window locks there are; you’re just trying to get them interested enough to book a viewing, so stayfocusedonthekeysellingpoints.

Floor plans & PDF brochure

Floor plans really help buyers put room sizesintoperspectiveandseewhetherthe layout could work for them. They’re moreor-less standard these days, so make sure yourlistinghasone.

Once you’re happy it’s correct, there are threethingstocheck:

There’s a compass rose so buyers can easilyseewhichroomsandareasofthe gardenfacesouth

Thetotalsquarefootageisstated–that helps buyers compare homes to see how much space they’re getting for theirmoney

The image opens at a decent size online.

A digital version of your full brochure shouldalsobeavailableasadownloadable PDFthatbuyerscansaveandprintout.

Although the agent may provide a hard copy at the viewing, many people like to check the brochure in advance to see if there are any photos or other information they might have missed – and it’s also usefulforthemtomakenoteson.

You’ve grabbed their attention – what next?

If you’ve ticked off everything so far, you should have buyers who are really keen to view.You’rehalfwaythere.

Now this is where the personal and professional skills of your agent come into play,toturnenquirersintobuyers.

The buyer calls your agent

Somepeopleknowforsurethattheywant to view and they’re just calling to arrange the appointment. Other people have questions,andthisiswhereanenthusiastic agent who’s familiar with your home can reallyhelpincreasethebuyer’sinterestand firmupaviewing.

So, check with your agent to make sure every member of staff has viewed your home and been briefed on any other relevant information, like whether you’ve foundanonwardpurchase.

Whoever’s handling the enquiry should also qualify the person viewing, checking how they’re going to be funding their purchase and whether they have a home to sell. If you’ve found a new place you’ve fallen in love with and the person who wants to view hasn’t even put their own home on the market yet, there might not bemuchpointbookinganappointment.

On the other hand, if they’re a cash buyer orthey’vesoldandtheirbuyerisdesperate toproceed,theycouldbetheperfectfit!

The buyer views your home

We’d suggest it’s always better to let your agent carry out accompanied viewings. Our experience means we know what information to give and how to sell the best features of your home; also, importantly, when the owner’s not there, buyers tend to feel more relaxed and talk morefreely.Thatmeanswecanusuallyget good feedback there and then and possibly even start negotiations on the spot.

Turning an offer into a sale

Whenabuyerreallylovesahome–andifyour agent has done their job selling it! – they’ll often make an offer even after just one viewing.Youragentthenhastonegotiatethe best possible price on your behalf, keeping youinformedofeveryoffer.

If your online listing is up to scratch and you’ve got your home looking its best, you shouldhaveplentyofinterest.

Andifnecessary,youragentcanusefeedback from viewings to make tweaks to your marketing along the way to ensure you’re appealingtoasmanybuyersaspossible.

Selling a home might not be an exact science, but there are a number of factors that will make a huge difference to how successfulyoursalewillbe.

Our experience has shown us that homes that sell quickly and for a good price tend to have certain key things in common, so we’ve developed a checklist that we can use to analyse the saleability of any home.

We rate various elements of your marketing approach across five categories, awarding up to a maximum of five points for each element to give your home an overall ‘Saleability Score’.

Using our quiz, you’ll be able to see for yourself where there may be room for improvement in your marketing.

Once you’ve identified which areas aren’t as strong as they could be, you can discuss those points with your agent and work together to turn things around so that your home makes the right impact on buyers.

So, if your home has been on the market for a while and perhaps you haven’t had quite as many viewings as you’d hoped, run through our Saleability Quiz and see how your marketing stacks up. Set aside a couple of hours, and make sure you have your printed brochure and online listing to hand. Think about every question carefully, and try to look objectively at your marketing materials and how your home is presented.

Then give your answers in the form of points, awarding from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 5 for each bullet point listed under each element below:

Your Estate Agent

Communication and feedback are key to helping you understand how the marketing is going and reassuring you that your agent really is doing their best to sell your home. So:

Do they call you regularly – at least once a week?

Do they accompany every viewing? Do they give you detailed feedback after each viewing?

Have they made any suggestions around how you might be able to generate more viewings –other than dropping the price?

Your Brochure

Your brochure needs to convey the quality of your home, setting a standard and value before the prospective buyer sees it in person. And the photographs have got to showcase a desirable lifestyle, grabbing buyers’ attention and enticing them to view.

Does the brochure fully represent your home –we usually recommend 16–20 glossy pages –and does it have a luxurious feel?

Are your photographs professional, and do they sell a lifestyle? The features of each room should be shown in crisp detail, and the images should convey an aspirational feel. In a sitting room, for instance, fires and candles should be lit, fresh flowers put out, and lights switched on to ensure the room looks spacious and bright, but cosy and inviting at the same time.

A gently bubbling bath with flickering candles is selling a relaxing and luxurious lifestyle, not just a bathroom. And for kitchen photographs, some fresh baking will bring the image of the room to life and stimulate more than just the buyer’s visual senses.

Is the written description enthusiastic in tone and full of emotive adjectives? The copywriter should be conveying a narrative that really captures the buyer’s imaginationandmakesthemwanttoexperienceyourhomeforthemselves.

Does the floorplan include dimensions and the overall floor area and show the orientationofyourhome?

Your online advert

This is your virtual shop window, and with the possibility of hundreds of other homes appearing insearchresults,yourlistingneedstostandout.

Does your main photograph grab a buyer’s attention and encourage them to click for more information? We find that changing the main photo from time to time can generate moreinterestfromtheonlinelisting.

Does the listing have a punchy, eye-catching headline?

Is the description concise, while still selling the best features of your home in a flattering way?

Is there a good-quality image of the floorplan, andbrochuredownloadbuttonavailable?

The price

If a home is marketed at too optimistic a price, it tendstositonthemarketforlonger.Soyoumust makesureyourhomeisadvertisedatapricethat both reflects its true value and attracts buyers. We favour a pricing strategy – ask us for more on this.

Is your asking price a round figure, e.g. £950,000,not£949,999?

Does your home appear at the top of a search inyourpricerange?

Do you know how your price per square foot/meter compares to that of other similar homesinthearea?

Have you stuck to your asking price, even if youragentthinksyoushoulddropit?

Preparing your home for viewings

You must do all you can to make buyers fall in love with your home – from the moment they first see it on the market to the end of their viewing.

Do you style and tidy the outside – both the garden and your home itself?

Do you have fresh flowers inside?

Do you dress all the beds?

Do you switch on lamps, light candles and have fresh coffee or baking to create a homely and welcoming atmosphere?

Now, add up the points.

If you have a Saleability Score of more than 80, well done – that suggests both you and your agent are on top of your home sale! Just take note of the areas where you might want to make a few tweaks, and if you still find you’re not getting enough viewings, then get in touch with us.

If you’ve scored between 50 and 80, there are probably quite a number of areas that you and your agent could work on. The good news is, this means there’s every likelihood that if you can just make the right improvements to your marketing, you should be able to attract much more interest and start to get some offers coming in.

However, if you have under 50 points, it’s probably time to consider a full marketing makeover. And if your current agent hasn’t already addressed the various challenges, it could be time to switch to one that’s more proactive and professional in their approach.

And if you’re feeling a little disheartened by your result, be encouraged by the fact that there are plenty of things you can do to make your home much more saleable – with the right agent on board.

Need help? Give us a call – we can review your marketing ourselves and give you our expert opinion on what needs to be done to secure a successful sale. Then, once we’ve visited your home to appraise it fully, we’ll come up with a bespoke marketing strategy that focuses on promoting all the best features of your home and relaunch it onto the market in style! Call our experienced and helpful team on 01271 410108

North Devon’s Treasure Trove

BrownsAntiques&Reclamation

If you are looking for a unique piece of furniture, a special antique, or 'objet d'art' for your home or garden, you must visit Brown's Antiques & Reclamation in South Molton.

Located just outside the town on Barnstaple Road, You can't miss it! The distinctive double decker bus that is parked at the front is practically a local landmark.

This place is really something special and the only place of its kind in North Devon.

As soon as you pull into the parking area you are surrounded but interesting objects of every size and style.

Outside there is a large yard packed full of antique statues, architectural reclamation, chimney pots, roof tiles and ornamental terracotta statues, to name a few.

Inside the main showroom there are three large rooms crammed full of beautiful pieces of antique furniture, chairs, beds, tables and more. Stained glass windows/doors, a selection of wall mounted antlers, old railway signs, wall lights, vases and mirrors - the list goes on.

Browns Antiques & Reclamation brownsantiquesandreclamation.co.uk

01769 579997

Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 10am4.30pm

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