Due to these uncertain times caused by the Covid 19 virus, it is actually a great time to be at home and consider what projects have been much neglected, that you can do now! For some, it may also mean the regrettable decision to have to sell your home or investment property. So here are some tips to keep you busy and get your home looking stunning!

1. Take time to rest. I know this doesn’t seem productive but the best ideas and decisions come when you are relaxed, have a clear head and have energy to start on things
2. Have a plan and to do list – now you might know clearly in your head what has to be done. Or you might have absolutely no idea where to start! Start with one room / section of the house. Think about your goals for that area. WHAT do I need to do? WHY do I need to do it? HOW am I going to get it done? Write it down. This way you don’t forget and it holds yourself accountable. There’s also a great sense of achievement when you can tick off that list. If you get stuck, that’s when you call a friend or call me
3. Declutter – I can’t emphasis this enough. Most of us live with too much stuff we simply do not need. It’s human nature to buy a news dress or a new tool. But you need to remove the old one (if you have it) before the new one comes into your home. So REMOVE everything from your chosen area, CLEAN the space from top to bottom, then put back what you NEED. The things you want or don’t need can be set aside to further sort later (repurpose, sell or give away)
4. Clean – at least every season you should give the house a big clean. Skirtings, top and inside of cupboards, windows, window seals and blinds, tiles, carpets, mattresses and blankets and more. Animal nests can be hiding away together with mould, grease and built up dirt. Some jobs are easier to get the professionals in like carpet and tile cleaning and pest control
5. Pest Control – now you may not be able to see the benefits of this, but there is nothing worse than a house with lots of ants or cockroaches. It gives someone else a perception of poor cleanliness and other issues that may be hiding. Pests, including termites, can do so much damage to your home. So it’s important you get your home treated and inspected every year to protect your most valuable asset
6. Move the furniture – when you live in a home you can get used to the way you set things up when you moved in. But could the furniture be better placed in another position? You want to create a flow of movement and light throughout the house. This is something that property stagers do well. But you can too with your own furniture and a willingness to try something different
7. Maintenance – time to fix all those little things that you said you would do when you get time but never did. The time is NOW! Fix that leaky tap, the squeaky door, the hole in the wall, the loose fence palings. When you have lots to do it can feel overwhelming. But each job is small, quick and easy. If you can’t do it yourself, then call a handyman. It is money well spent if you don’t have the skills to do it yourself
8. Paint  and colour– everything looks better with a fresh coat of paint. Keep the walls light and bright, especially if you’re planning on selling soon. You may love that particular blue colour on the bedroom wall, but potential buyers most likely won’t. Don’t forget that good preparation is paramount for a good paint job. Colour can be introduced with accessories like art, linen and cushions. It can be an effective tool to create emotions too
9. Light – light can refer to natural light (from the windows) and artificial lighting (light fittings, downlights and lamps). Ensure you have enough to light up the room when needed, spot lighting for study nooks and to create ambience. Outdoor lighting is needed for security and to make your home look amazing at night. Twilight photography when selling your home, with the lights on, looks amazing and captures buyers’ attention
10. Garden – when we’re busy the garden is usually the area that gets most neglected. But the front of the home is the area that when people visit, will see first. So trim those hedges, weed and feed the garden, lay a good spread of mulch. Colour in the garden is what makes the front of your home look attractive and welcoming. Add some potted colour or attractive pots with easy to care plants. Ensure the path to your front door is clear from the street. This is also for safety if you have intruders. The backyard is your secure haven for entertaining. If you can, create areas in the garden to spend time for all of the family

If you need any further assistance or ideas, then please give me a call on 0417 460 692 to discuss booking your 1 hour Home Vision Consultation