Would it be worthwhile redecorating a house before putting it on the market?

[sandyRoe]

The outside was painted a couple of years ago and looks OK. Inside it's a bit tired. Would decorating 'pay for itself'?

[237SJ]

I wouldn`t say it would pay for itself but it might help it to sell quicker. Personally, I`d just give it a lick of paint which can brighten up a place at minimal expense.

[rowanwitch]

cream emulsion white gloss de-personalise as much as possible in real terms it pays for itself as you would probably succeed with a single agent selling strategy if it looks really pristine

[Mosaic]

Tidy gardens (esp front if there is one), make them look low-maintenance, don't have wheelie bins under the front window.
As well as Rowanwitch's points, go for a nice smell inside - coffee, bread or vanilla - not dog, fag, or grease.

[VHG]

I think the most important thing is to de-clutter.

People want to think a house is roomy and low maintenance, so remove stuff from shelves and ledges and other "clutter" that fills up most of our homes.

Consider even renting storage somewhere and take some of your stuff there to make the house seem less cluttered and more spacious.

As has been said, a coat of magnolia on walls can make the room seem bigger and cleaner, but maybe do it yourself rather than get someone in.

Kerb appeal is also important and if someone drives up to your house and it looks a mess they may drive away without even coming in. So, as has been said, make the front look as nice as possible.

Have nice smells in each room, maybe fresh flowers around the house and so on.

You never know if you are going to get your money back, but it will certainly make the house sell quicker.

I remember the TV program House Doctor with Ann Maurice from a few years ago, and the advice above was the things she said in the program.

Here is her web site

http://www.housedoctor.co.uk/index.php

[The Builder]

I couldn't agree more with what the others have said, Sandy. Here's the secret ingredient ............

http://www.decorating....uk/viewprod/t/TORCE/