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Recent surveys have revealed that it takes on average just 21 minutes to make a decision to buy a house, so when it comes to first impressions, they really do count. If you are thinking of putting your home on the market, it pays to have it looking its very best to secure a quick sale at the best possible price.

We all live with slight imperfections in our home, and over time it becomes quite hard to spot them. Walk round each room and write down anything that is flawed and in need of a bit of DIY. In fact ask a trusted friend or family member to help you and don’t be afraid to be ultra critical – a potential buyer will be.

“Most problems in the house are really easy to fix and once they are sorted, it will make a real difference to the selling potential of your property,” says Kevin Sinclair from the London Handy Team, a group of professional tradesmen servicing the London area. “We handle those annoying jobs around the house and garden that never get done and, left untreated, can be a real turn-off for buyers.”

The London Handy Team, www.londonhandyteam.co.uk, take care of basic plumbing, electrical and carpentry jobs throughout the London area. Work undertaken includes painting and decorating, fixing, fitting and assembly, gardening, carpentry and hanging stuff, as well as issuing energy performance certificates and gas safety certificates. What’s more there is no call-out charge and the handymen can be booked for a minimum of an hour at £40. This can be increased in 30-minute increments, although there is a fixed price day rate. For ultimate flexibility, the handy men can be booked to come out during Saturdays and evenings.

The Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home and it pays to make it as warm and inviting as possible. There’s no need to go to the expense and hassle of having a new kitchen fitted, after all you can’t judge everyone’s taste but if yours is looking rather tired, investing in new cupboard doors can be a great way of smartening the look. “New kitchen cupboard doors can really freshen up a kitchen and give it a much more contemporary feel,” says Sinclair. “We can quickly and easily hang kitchen cupboard doors and you will be amazed at how they can transform the room.”

The Bathroom

A slightly shabby bathroom is a real no no and probably the thing that will put off buyers the most. It doesn’t have to be fancy but it does need to be clean and fresh. “Many bathrooms suffer from mouldy grouting and while it is very off-putting for buyers, it is a common problem and one that can be easily remedied. It would take our guys no time to sort out and will instantly freshen up the room,” says Sinclair.

Kerb appeal

It is not just repair jobs where the London Handy Team can make a difference. Improving the property’s frontage will make your home look like it has been really cared for. “Kerb appeal is so important in today’s tough property market so it is important to make a fantastic first impression. Painting the front door, fixing fences and tidying the front garden go along way in making the house feel like a much loved home,” adds Sinclair.

To buy or not to buy? 

So you’ve seen a property that you think you can fall in love with but are having jitters about the DIY involved? Many jobs are simple tasks that professionals can take care of with minimum effort or expense. Here are the top five most common problems that can be easily remedied by The London Handy Team.

1. Hairline cracks in plaster

2. Mouldy grouting

3. Covering cracks and holes in walls

4. Repairing faulty toilet flushes and dripping taps

5. Replacing broken tiles

With thanks to the London Handy Team. For more information about the full range of services the London Handy Team offer, visit www.londonhandyteam.co.uk email: quote@londonhandyteam.co.uk or follow @londonhandyteam on twitter