Properties are languishing on the market as buyers remain cautious. There are, however, a few things savvy sellers can do to get the best possible price.

Here are ooba’s top tips to make your home as appealing as possible without breaking the bank:

1. Start with a great impression

   Your front door is the first thing a buyer will notice. Make sure it’s a smart, gentle colour and in good condition. If there is space, flower pots next to the front door make for an inviting entrance.

2. Follow it through to the entrance

   Ensure your hallway says 'welcome'. It’s a good idea to have a console table, a mirror, a lamp and a nice piece of art.

3. Light up, light up

   Gloomy, dark houses are a big turn off. Make sure your house is as bright as it can be. Cut trees and bushes that may obstruct light from the outside and add new lamps inside if more light it needed.

4. Space man

   Make sure your furniture fits the space. Buyers will think 'small' if your furniture is oversized or battle to see what a space can be used for if it’s empty. To make the best use of a space, select furniture that will fill gaps purposefully.

5. Atmosphere

   Creating an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication makes buyers feel they are looking at something special. Ambient lighting, books, accessories, artwork and scented candles create the right atmosphere.

6. Calm the colour

   If you have very loud walls, think of repainting them. Pale creams, greys and warm stone hues work well and create a neutral palette for the next owner.

7. Petal power

   Flowers are an easy and cheap way to freshen up a house. Placing a couple of vases of flowers around the home adds a real sense of style and will brighten any room.

8. Declutter, declutter

   Toys, laundry, old magazines and other items should all be tidied away. Clutter makes a home look messy and smaller than it is; a big buyer repellant.

9. Sparkling powder rooms

   Tacky bathrooms make peoples' skin crawl. They can easily be spruced up with a new mirror above the basin, fresh towels and accessories such as hand soaps and creams. And make sure they are spotless on show day. Spotless.

Jenny Rushin is property finance manager at ooba.

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