Q&A: Interior decorating - neutral or colourful
I am thinking of putting my house on the market and a friend commented that perhaps redecorating in more neutral tines - I currently have strong colours - would be advisable. Is this true?
This week's property expert, Wendy Peterman, from Petermans in Herne Hill suggests:
First impressions count and presenting a welcome home in neutral tones, rather than very strong, bold colours suited to an individual's taste and personality is important.
Neutral tones can also help spaces appear bigger than they really are, particularly in smaller rooms where darker tones redcuce the feeling of space. Using mirrors and neutral furnishings is another good idea. Houses crammed with personal collections such as dolls or pets' photos will not help your marketing.
Most people can see beyond cosmetics that need altering but some can't so if you are thinking of pursuing the neutral tones route then it is certainly not a bad idea and won't hinder your sale pricess - if anything it is very likely to help.
Other tips to make the most of light and windows, decoration and maintenance include:
- Use artificial light to hightight dark corners and hallways to make it look more spacious.
- Hang white muslin strips over a window to cover a bad view.
- Give your home a fresh coat of paint to smarten the overall look of the property.
- Finish off any DIY jobs started and replace old looking door handles and glass panes.
