Got a full set of dodgy dustins? Or a collection of kids’ bikes? Martin Jordan, director at estate agent Chesterton Humberts, Canterbury, wants you to keep them to yourself when selling your home.

Since a front door is one of the first things potential buyers see when viewing a property, it is an important part of creating that all important positive first impression.

Does a front door with peeling paint, a broken bell and dirty marks affect the saleability of your home?

Would a cluttered front garden, unkempt hedges and an overgrown front lawn put a potential buyer off? I can tell you that the answer to both of these questions is “yes.”

In such a tough market, your kerb appeal is key. You need to get potential buyers through the door.

You don’t need to spend much money – a few simple touches can go a long way.

If you have a really grotty front door then it would be sensible to replace it with a new one. If it’s just a case of peeling paint then re-painting it is an easy way to create a fresh new look.

Clear the pavement of rubbish and weeds as well as the drive or path. Smelly bins are never going to be a winner so hide these in the garage or stack recycling containers tidily in a corner.

If you have a front lawn make sure this is mowed, remove any dead plants or flowers from the beds and trim hedges and bushes.

Remove bikes, children’s toys or gardening tools and store them in a shed or garage if you can.

Do not leave all this until five minutes before the viewer arrives. It is important that your property is looking its best for when the estate agent takes photographs for their website and property brochures.

For more information, see www.chestertonhumberts.com