The gloves are off if you want to make a good impression

Whatever your penchant for cleaning, first impressions count – and a new survey into the cleaning habits of the nation reveals those who do it wearing rubber gloves!

According to the study, carried out by a household cleaning brand, just over 48 per cent of respondents claimed they never wear gloves when approaching the unappealing task of cleaning the loo.

It also showed that women are twice as likely as men to wear gloves whilst doing the washing up whilst cleaning the oven is the task where most people are likely to wear gloves (53 per cent) and dusting is most likely (84.7 per cent) to be done without gloves.

Despite being interesting reading, these simple tasks and more could make all the difference to a potential buyer viewing your home, say independent estate agents and valuers Harrison Murray.

“First impressions really do count,” said head of estate agency Nick Salmon. “Many viewers may run their finger along a surface to check for dust and even open the oven door to check inside. To some buyers, a spotless house rather than a just a clean one may tip the balance in favour of a sale.”

Here are some simple yet effective tidying tips – and remember, first impressions count:

Keep it clean! As the survey suggests, keeping the bathroom and kitchen clean are at the top of the list for most people, and are part of their daily cleaning routine. However, if the grouting in the bathroom or around tiles is grubby and lets down the overall effect – it can easily be replaced to brighten up the room.

Clean kitchen surfaces and work tops and wipe away any fingerprints from glass surfaces, windows or doors.

De-clutter. In preparation for viewings, pack away any items that may make your home look crowded. Potential buyers will want to imagine themselves in the property with their belongings. Ensure any drying laundry is hidden from view, and if you use part of your home as an office, clear away any paperwork.

Looking from the outside. Check and repair any garden gates or fences, paint window frames and clean window panes, clear paths of weeds and make the entrance to your home inviting with some freshly planted pot plants. Giving your home kerb appeal is the first step to engaging with a buyer.

Keeping it simple. Less is more, as the saying goes – and you don’t have to spend a fortune when it comes to interiors. A few strategically placed throws and rugs to tone down any patterned sofas or carpets will bring older interiors up to date. Create some beneficial optical illusions by placing furniture at angles around the room.

Garage Storage. If like the majority of homeowners you use your garage for storing everything apart from the car, keeping it clutter free will give viewers an idea of how much space there is. They may have their own ideas for garage use – so keep tools, Christmas decorations and other items stored in boxes or hooked on the wall. Don’t hide this vital space under a pile of ‘junk’.

Help and advice on how to make the most of your home for sale is available at www.harrisonmurray.co.uk