Your checklist for sale

Presentation is often the reason two similar properties sell for vastly different prices. You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and preparing your home is one of the most important investments you can make in the sale process. A well-presented home allows buyers to emotionally connect with the space and visualise themselves living there.

This checklist breaks down the process into simple, manageable steps to help you prepare your property to attract the best possible offers.

First impressions: boosting your curb appeal

The first thing a buyer sees is the outside of your home. A welcoming exterior sets a positive tone before they even step through the door. This is your chance to make your property look attractive from the moment someone sees it from the road.

Tidy the garden: Mow the lawns, weed the garden beds, and trim back any overgrown trees or shrubs.
Wash the exterior: Schedule an exterior house wash to clean the cladding, paths, and driveway.
Clean the windows: Make sure all windows are sparkling clean, inside and out.
Check the front door: Give the front door a fresh coat of paint if needed and ensure the doorbell works.
Clear the entrance: Remove any clutter like shoes, umbrellas, or children’s toys from the front porch.

Inside the home: declutter, depersonalise, and deep clean

Buyers want to envision their own belongings in your home. Too much clutter or personal items can be distracting and make rooms feel smaller and more stressful. The goal is to create a clean, neutral, and spacious-feeling environment.

Declutter every room: “Less is more” is the golden rule. Pack away anything you don’t use daily. Clear surfaces, benchtops, and floors to maximise the sense of space.
Depersonalise your space: Pack away personal photos, certificates, and sentimental items. This helps buyers picture their own family in the home, rather than feeling like a guest in yours.
Organise storage areas: Buyers will look inside cupboards and wardrobes. Tidy, half-empty storage spaces give the impression that the home has plenty of room.
Deep clean everything: Your home needs to be spotless. This includes cleaning carpets, washing walls, scrubbing bathrooms and kitchens, and removing any cobwebs from corners. A professional deep clean can be a worthwhile investment.

Repairs and maintenance: creating a move-in ready feel

Most buyers are looking for a property that is in perfect, move-in ready condition. Addressing minor maintenance issues shows that the home has been well-cared for and prevents buyers from being distracted by small problems.

Complete minor repairs: Fix dripping taps, sticking doors or windows, and replace any cracked tiles.
Check all lightbulbs: Ensure every light fitting is working. A well-lit home feels warm and inviting.
Touch up the paintwork: A fresh coat of neutral paint can make a home feel fresh and new. At a minimum, touch up any scuffs or scratches on the walls.
Ensure all fixtures are working: Check that all chattels included in the sale, like the oven, dishwasher, and heat pump, are in good working order.

The final touches: preparing for open homes

On the day of a viewing or open home, a few final touches can create a welcoming and memorable atmosphere.

Let in the light: Open all curtains and blinds to maximise natural light.
Turn on all the lights: Even during the day, having all the lights on makes the home feel bright and welcoming.
Air out the house: Open windows for at least 30 minutes before a viewing to let in fresh air.
Make the beds: Ensure all beds are neatly made with fresh linen.
Finishing touches: Add a vase of fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit on the kitchen counter, and hang fresh towels in the bathroom.
Set a comfortable temperature: Use the heat pump or air conditioning to ensure the home is a comfortable temperature for visitors.

Feeling overwhelmed by the list?

Preparing a home for sale is a big job, but you don’t have to do it all alone. If you’d like some advice on which tasks will have the biggest impact on your sale price, we’re here to help.

Call us today on (09) 626 6119 for a friendly, confidential chat.