How NOT to sell a house

• Being emotionally attached to the property. When you decide to sell your home, detach yourself from the memories and take a financial perspective. One in five homeowners are put off by sellers who criticise their property so remember that not everyone will like your property similar to how you were when you visited homes before buying. This is now a business transaction.

• Set an unrealistic price. There is a fine line between the right and wrong price. Whilst we all want more money, it’s a fact – overpriced houses don’t sell. What’s more if a house has been on the market for too long perspective buyers will wonder if there is something wrong that they can’t see.

• Using minimal photos. In today’s society, most people turn to the Internet to look at properties, which means good quality photos and lots of them are a necessity. Ensure photos are taken in good light and from a number of angles because the better your house looks in the photos, the more likely someone is to visit.

• Trying to hide problems. Any problems will be uncovered so don’t cover them up. Whether it’s a small décor disaster, an outdoor problem that needs fixing or an interior drawback, it’s best to fix it before selling or come clean and take it off the asking price.

• Not making your home ready for sale. First impressions count so clean your house from top to bottom and make it inviting. Fresh flowers look great and if there are minor things that need fixing such as a light that doesn’t work, fix it. Dirty dishes on the kitchen side are also a big no-no! It is also important to de-personalise your home so that potential buyers can imagine their own family in the space.

• Not being flexible. Potential buyers may want to view in the evening and at weekends so it is important to accommodate their needs. After all, you would expect the same service.

• Forgetting to look at your own behaviour. Many sellers forget that their own behaviour says a million words. If you’re frosty, rude and bored then your property will have the same negative feeling.