In June last year, the cost of an average home in Dorset had shot up by more than 10 per cent on the year before to £320,000. That’s the fastest increase in a decade.
With housing stock in the county low, you could say it’s a buyers’ market, however if you’re selling with a local estate agent, there are steps you can take to get the best price possible.

Most house hunters decide whether to buy or not within about seven seconds of entering your home, so here are are some easy things you can do to ensure it’s love at first sight.
Declutter. We know it helps, but we don’t do it. Basically, if it’s in the way, either give it away or store it away. Clear surfaces, unfussy walkways and tidy rooms give a sense of space.

Clean. It’s basic but view your house through the eyes of a clean-freak. A quick clean of doors and surrounds takes minutes. Remove marks from furniture or carpets – a throw or rug will cover a multitude of sins. Make taps and cookers shine.

Tidy your bed. It’s amazing how many property details show images of crumpled duvets. Get all boutique-hotel about it and smooth those covers and fluff those pillows.
Lived-in vibes. Now that it’s clean, make it look it look more home than show-home with a vase of fresh flowers, a classy painting or a bowl of colourful fruit.

Banish bad odours. Scented candles and fresh coffee are all very well but pets can pong. Use the least whiffy food on viewing days. Add diffusers and if possible, open windows and put litter trays outside well before.

By Lorraine Gibson