While everyone concentrates on the ill effects of interest rate rises – and where mortgages are concerned the opposite appears to be true as lenders’ rates are falling – what many are missing is the sheer choice of properties available right now.

After the pandemic, the world went mad and buyers would snap up almost anything that had ground floor doors and windows. The market was quite literally boiling over and the offers we were getting for even mundane properties were ridiculous. Still, owners grasped them and moved on.

The current market is so-say affected by falling prices but unless you bought just after the pandemic and now have to sell, prices are largely where they used to be. What’s changed is the variety of properties on offer and that’s good news for buyers because they can bag the best value for money, often properties that are ready for them to just move in.

For sellers, the presence of more choice means they may have to make a little more effort. Their home needs to appeal to the next owner and while I don’t recommend wholesale redecoration – the smell of new paint will easily betray it – I do suggest that getting things neat and tidy, clearing away clutter, and even cleaning the windows can have a big effect.

If you have a front garden, make sure the lawn is mown, the borders tidy and the front path or driveway clear of weeds. Potential buyers make a decision often before stepping inside. If you don’t want to be victim to the drive-by denial then at least make your property look inviting.

Once inside, buyers will quickly detect the smell of damp dog or signs of neglect. Freshen up the house, remember that the windows do open, and put things back where they belong. Don’t make the mistake of cramming it all in a cupboard, ready to overwhelm buyers when they open the door to peek inside, as they always do.

If the market is competitive, as it is now, get ready to compete!

Colin Shairp,

Director, Fine and Country Southern Hampshire and Town and Country Southern estate agencies, Drayton.<