SPRING  – a time for rebirth, the end of winter gloom, and for many the opportune time to buy or sell a property. But why is there a surge in the real estate market during this season?

There are a number of reasons many decide to sell their homes in Spring. The weather is warmer, more people are willing to venture out and gardens are blooming. It’s a great time to show off your home’s outdoor features such as swimming pools and landscaping.

However, many sellers do not anticipate they will encounter the inundation of like-minded people who also want a piece of the action.

There are a few tips to ensure your property stands out; to guarantee success, you need to style your home to its best advantage.

Keep it simple

Sydney-siders love their outdoor living areas. Entertaining is a big part of the Australian way of life. But high maintenance properties are definitely out. People do not want to spend their weekends maintaining their homes, they want to enjoy them. Start by washing down your property, clearing out the gutters, remove any superfluous outdoor furniture and anything else that will take time to look after. Create a clean space where people can envisage long, lazy barbecues, family celebrations and parties.

Declutter

You’ve kept that worn chair dear old granny left for you, boxes of ‘art’ your children created on preschool and the Buddha statue you brought back from your trip to Bali. My advice, get rid of it. Most of us find it hard to let go of items that have sentimental value, but for the buyer, these pieces are clutter. Not only do they clog up your living areas, but can put buyers off. Why not start packing your house early? It needs to be done and I tell my clients they can kill two birds with one stone. If clients feel they cannot possibly part with treasured pieces, my advice is to hire storage and create space in your home. Don’t forget to tidy bookshelves and store unused items in your roof.

Styling – Art, colours and more

Furniture not only sets the tone of a home, but also gives proportion to a room. Be mindful of oversized furniture or garish pieces that can be polarising. The same goes for art – tasteful, inoffensive and classic. If the property is empty, I hire furniture to allow potential buyers to visualise living in the house as their home.

Colour trends are important to follow; neutral, unobtrusive tones appeal to the majority of people. Colours not only extend to the walls, but to the carpets, furnishing, tiles and fixtures. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can’t do to lift a room!

Keep ahead of the trends

I’m continually searching out the latest trends, consulting with interior designers, looking at magazines and visiting homemaker stores. Tile and lighting shops are great place to see many different styles and the latest stock on display. As I have renovated properties numerous times, I know what works and enjoy the whole process of consulting and seeing the finished product.

A final tip

Ensure your house is free of any damp or mould lurking on walls, ceilings and in the garden. The ravage of a cold, wet winter can have devastating effects on a property.

Darryl Gordon – Interior Designer

Every person has one space in their home that evokes tranquility – a refuge styled individually just for them. A place to escape, relax and feel completely at ease. Much sought after and highly respected eastern suburbs Interior Designer Darryl Gordon has created spaces for his clients over his long career. He has used his extensive knowledge, skill and creativity to sculpture unique living areas that perfectly reflect his clients’ needs and wants.

Darryl has invited me into his Favourite Room, providing an insight into what makes his room more than just a living space.

What is your favourite room in your house?

My favourite room is definitely my bedroom. It’s large and has a balcony with beautiful northern light. My bedroom also includes my library. It is on the first floor of my terrace. The ground floor is my work place so having my bedroom above helps me disconnect from work.

Bedroom

Why is your bedroom your favourite space?

All of my favourite things are in my bedroom. One whole wall is dedicated to my books – I even have a library ladder! I probably have over 1000 books, although I’ve never counted them. I also have many objects of art that are very personal and intimate to me.  My bedroom is my refuge. It contains photographs and art that represent moments of time. It’s also very cosy and features beautiful architectural points.

How does your favourite room represent who you are?

My room would not suit everyone. I have used oak-coloured faux bois, and a 19^th century palette of colours. I was inspired by other rooms I had created for clients and from tear sheets in magazines.

What do you most like to do in your bedroom?

Sleep! I also have a big, comfy chair, which I love to sit in and read after a long day.

If you could invite anyone into your room, who would it be?

My dog Louis and my cat Penny! They make me feel comfortable and are great company.  As a French bulldog, Louis provides the scents in my room – but I also have used Acqua di Parma for 10 years in my bedroom, it’s beautiful.

What would you change about your bedroom?

I’d love more robe space (who doesn’t), as I am a bit of a hoarder (who isn’t?)!

What advice would you give on how to create the perfect space?

Hire a professional. Don’t second guess the interior designer and communicate honestly, listen and be frank about what you want.  Your space should be comfortable, but not exceed expectations.