Preparing Your Apartment for Sale in Bansko, Bulgaria - With Bower Properties Step by Step Advice

Selling an apartment can be a complex process, especially from afar. Preparing your property with care is crucial for a successful sale and to reach the best price in an active market. This guide outlines our advice, with over 20 years working in Bansko, we have learned a lot. We’ve set it out in key steps to enable your apartment to stand out to potential buyers.

I. Step one of preparation.

A. Depersonalise and Declutter

We always advise our sellers to remove personal items such as family photos, excessive ornaments, clothing from hallways etc. Buyers need to envision themselves in the space, keeping it clutter free helps them to do this. Move unnecessary items to storage to make rooms appear larger and more open.

B. Time to clean

A super clean apartment makes such an important first impression. This includes:

• Kitchen: Carefully clean all appliances, countertops, and sinks.

• Bathrooms: Ensure all surfaces are clean, paying attention to grout, fixtures, and mirrors.

• Floors: Vacuum carpets, mop hard floors, and consider professional cleaning for stubborn stains.

• Windows: Clean both inside and out for maximum light.

C. Small Damages will stand out - fix them

Repair any small, noticeable issues that could discourage buyers. These might include:

• Fixing leaky taps.

• Repairing holes in walls and repainting.

• Replacing blown lightbulbs.

• Tightening loose door handles.

• Mending any broken tiles or flooring.

II. Increase First Impressions (Staging)

A. Improve Lighting

Good lighting is essential to make a room feel larger and more inviting. 

• Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light.

• Ensure all light fixtures are working and use appropriate wattage bulbs to brighten rooms.

• Consider adding lamps to dimly lit areas.

• Make up beds and use soft furnishing to dress the sofa or beds.

B. Furniture Arrangement

Arrange furniture to maximise space.

• Remove oversized or excess furniture that makes a room feel cramped.

• Create distinct zones if the apartment has open-plan living areas.

C. Neutralise to Modernize

If bright colours have been used consider painting walls in neutral colors (e.g., whites, grays, light beiges). This creates a clean canvas that appeals to many more buyers  and makes rooms appear noticeably larger. Update any outdated fixtures or fittings where cost-effective or remove them.

D. Enhance Outdoor Spaces or Terraces (if applicable)

If your apartment has a balcony or terrace, make sure it is clean and appealing. Add a small table and chairs to show the potential for outdoor living. Add artificial plants and flowers really brighten a space.

III. Documentation and Legal Preparation

A. Gather Essential Documents

Having all necessary paperwork readily available can quicken the sale process. You can prepare these yourselves or your lawyer can help with this preparation. We at Bower Proeperties always advise using an independent local legal firm. This includes:

• Title Deeds (Notarial Act): Proof of ownership.

• Property Cadastral Scheme (Skitsa from Cadastre): A detailed plan of the property.

• Tax Valuation (Danychna Otsenka): Official property valuation for tax purposes.

• Building Permit and Usage Permit (Act 16): Essential for new builds.

• Receipts for Paid Taxes and Utility Bills: Proof of no outstanding debts.

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): May be required.

• Management Company Agreement (if applicable): Details of communal charges and services.

B. Address Any Legal Issues

Ensure there are no outstanding legal disputes or encumbrances on the property. Consult with a local real estate lawyer if unsure. We work with two local and highly recommended Legal firms who can help.

IV. Professional Assistance

A. Engaging a Trusted and Experienced Real Estate Agent

A local real estate agent, such as Bower Properties with more than 20 years experience in the Bansko market will provide invaluable assistance. Regardless of whether you are in Bansko or not, they will:

• Accurately price your property - the valuation is free. 

• Market it to potential buyers, with excellent photographs, videos and descriptions.

• Handle viewings.

• Navigate the legal and administrative aspects of the sale.

• Ease the process for sellers from outside Bulgaria, the United Kingdom, Ireland and US for example.

• See the link here for further information https://bower-properties.com/selling-process

B. Engaging a Trusted, Independent, Local Legal Firm

• They can prepare a Power of Attorney, this will enable them to prepare documents for you and complete the sale on your behalf.

By following these steps, you can significantly enhance your apartment's marketability and increase your chances of a quick and profitable sale in Bansko.