How to sell your home in summer

As sales hit a four-year high, property expert Liv Conlon reveals her insider secrets for getting your house ready to go on the market and even attract better offers from buyers

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House sales are hotting up for summer - and competition among buyers is fierce. Sales are at a four-year high, according to Zoopla, and there's been an 11% increase in homes listed compared to last year.

More properties on the market means more choice for buyers, which ups the pressure on sellers to make their homes stand out from the crowd.

I've spent more than a decade as CEO of ThePropertyStagers - helping get homes ready for the market. One thing I've learned is a well-staged, seasonally tuned home doesn't just sell faster, it often commands higher offers too.

Buyers these days aren't just looking for four walls and a roof, they're searching for lifestyle, comfort and a space they can see themselves living in, especially when the sun's out.

That's why making smart, seasonal tweaks can make a huge difference.

And the good news? Many of these improvements won't break the bank and some are even free.

From boosting kerb appeal with a simple jet wash that can add up to 10% more value, to keeping your garden trimmed and fresh to avoid that neglected look, small details matter.

With a little effort and the right approach, your home will be the one buyers remember - and the one that sells faster and for more.

GET JET-WASHING

First impressions count for a lot, especially when it comes to selling your home.

When a potential buyer pulls up at your house, make sure the sight they're greeted by represents your property accordingly.

Now is the time to pressure wash your driveway, paths, patios and the exterior of your home to elevate its kerb appeal.

If you can, bring in a professional to do the job for you.

Research shows cleaned properties can sell for 5-10% more than those with neglected exteriors, so it's worth spending some money.

TACKLE THE GARDEN

Summer means fast-growing grass, weeds and hedges.