Curb Appeal

Propped up in bed this morning going through my emails, watching TV, the programme's subject turned to the state of the UK property market. It's in stagnation apparently. We're not moving at the moment so that in itself wasn't of any particular interest.

However, to close the interview a property expert was asked what, in this stagnated market, was the one thing he advised property sellers to do to increase the chances of a sale.

We've all probably heard the stories about making sure the smell of freshly baked bread fills your house, that it's tidy of clutter and that all your best and most expensive collectables and electronic items should be placed sparklingly on show. But apparently, before prospective buyers walk through your door, the most important thing you can do is to give your property 'Curb Appeal'. The presenter on the TV thought the expert had said 'curve appeal', wondering if shapely young lady estate agents were the key to the sale.

But no, of course, curb appeal is all about making the front of your building as beautiful and welcoming as possible. All obvious stuff really as many prospective buyers will 'window shop' before deciding to view internally. Fine then, a tidy up, perhaps a lick of pant and perhaps remove the burnt out cars from the drive. No problem? Well, down our way where break ins are only too common (making up to date home insurance a must) we've always done our best to make the front of our homes as, relatively, unappealing as possible. Time and time again, its the 'nice' houses that get burgled leaving their shabby neighbours untouched.

I realise that this could be a very foolish and short sighted tactic on behalf of our local criminal fraternity but there it is. So, to the house criminals of London, I beseech you, don't judge a house by its exterior, it may indicate the presence of Wayne and Waynetta Slob trying to make a quick sale, or a member of the the Rothschild family protecting their priceless collection of antiques.