You are here: I’m self-isolating, hate my house and I want to move
I’m self-isolating, hate my house and I want to move
The past few months have been tough and I’m sure we’re all going to have some good and bad memories from lockdown. For some people, the association of being in a bad place can be the impetus for moving on. If you’re self-isolating in a property that you weren’t that keen on to start with, it doesn’t take a genius to see that you may be looking to find newer pastures with no associations and just a happy foundation to build on as soon as you can.
Recently, the Government put measures in place to get the property market moving again and estate agents are back in business, although there are strict rules for house viewings. These include virtual viewings wherever possible and all physical viewings being limited to members of the same household. The advice also includes notes for when you are physically viewing properties such as avoiding touching surfaces, washing your hands regularly, and bringing your own hand sanitiser. And, ideally you wouldn’t bring your children to the viewings.
If people are being shown around your current home, you should open all internal doors and ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned after each viewing. You’re also being advise to vacate your property while the viewings are taking place and to practise social distancing wherever possible.
Get your house ready!
If you’re not ready to be out in the open yet, put the time in self-isolation to good use. There are plenty of small jobs you can do on your own house to ensure that viewers get a good first impression when they come in.
Take some time to look at your house as a potential viewer and be strict about it. Clear clutter and start packing away personal belongings. You can get boxes delivered and store bits and pieces in your loft, garage or shed if you have one. If you are serious about moving, this is a job that you would be doing anyway, so you’re in a win-win situation. Houses that let potential buyers imagine the space with their own belongings in tend to move faster, so it’s time for some of those knick-knacks and photos to be put away.
Next on the list – check for things that need fixing or touching up. Inspect your bathrooms and toilets for any mould patches and clean them down. It might be time to reseal the shower and bath and you’ll be amazed how some bright, white sealant can make the bathroom look a lot newer.
Check paintwork around the house and touch up woodwork. Give the rooms that could do with a bit of love a freshen up. If you are painting, choose neutral colours. Light, fresh, modern colours help keep the buyers interested and can make your home look more spacious. If there are cracks to be filled, invest in some decorator’s caulk and watch your home get a facelift.
Lastly, take a walk around your property and literally tidy it up. Remove rubbish that has collected near bins or been blown in from main roads, paint or clean your front door and window sills. Straighten your garden and mow your lawn. Sometimes, these smaller jobs can make the home that you are sick of more like the home you once wanted to buy.
And you’ll have given yourself a nice working environment for the all-important job of researching estate agents. Ask around and don’t forget to check out Estate Agents in your area.
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