Property Today

That doesn't make it impossible though. You just need to invest a little time and money to make your property as attractive as possible.

Here are Property Today's five tips to get your home quickly looking great:

1) Give it a lick of paint: Of all the things you could do to your property, this will probably give you the fastest result. A house that looks fresh and clean is immediately more attractive to buyers. But don't do a sloppy job; you'll struggle to sell a house that's been given a slapdash decorating job. Pay as much care and attention as you would if you were going to continue living in the house. Or if you're more of a bodger than a DIYer, hire a professional to do it for you.

2) Keep it neutral, but with a dash of colour: Potential buyers want to see a 'blank canvas' when they look round your home. That means it must be easy for them to visualise living there and the changes they would make. So paint in neutral colours.

3) Keep your bathroom clean: The best bathroom to have is white, and if you can, fit a glass screen to the shower instead of using a shower curtain. Replacing taps and toilet seat can freshen the room up

4) Clear the clutter: Many of us have more in our house than we really have room for. And that makes the home look smaller than it actually is; not a helpful perception when you're trying to sell your home. The trick is to hide it all away when buyers are visiting! Consider hiring a nearby storage unit as a secret dumping place, or shove it all in the loft.

5) Get your garden looking gorgeous: With July just two days away, your garden should be looking fabulous. Keep it clean, well maintained and try to make it look effortless. Clear any clutter like children's toys away and make sure paths are well-swept and weed free.