Selling your home is a significant step, filled with excitement and the promise of a fresh start, and preparation is crucial in turning that promise into reality. Research shows that homes prepared for sale not only sell faster but often achieve higher offers, so it’s well worth the additional planning and extra effort.
A well-presented property can spend less time on the market and achieve closer to the asking price, so whether you’re a seasoned mover or selling for the first time, taking the time to make your home shine can make all the difference.
To help you get started, here are eight friendly, practical tips to prepare your home for sale and win over potential buyers.
1. Declutter and depersonalise
Whether inside or outside of your home, first impressions count for a lot! Potential buyers need to envision themselves living in your space, and that can be difficult to do when there is a lot of someone else’s belongings in view.
Start by decluttering each room, storing away as many personal items, like family photos, as you can, and keeping surfaces clear and tidy. Donate or pack away anything you no longer need—it’s the perfect chance to get a head start on your own move. A clean, neutral space allows buyers to imagine their own belongings filling the home and, if they can imagine themselves in the space, they will be more likely to make an offer.
2. Deep clean every nook and cranny
A spotless home signals that it has been well cared for. Pay extra attention to kitchens and bathrooms, as these are often deal-breaker areas for buyers. Scrub tiles, clean windows, dust light fittings, and shampoo carpets. For tougher tasks like cleaning grout or removing stubborn stains, consider hiring a professional cleaner. Sparkling results will leave a lasting positive impression.
3. Freshen up with neutral paint
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders, especially if your walls have seen better days or feature bold colours. It doesn’t have to cost the earth either, and is a small investment to help you achieve a higher offer. Opt for neutral tones like whites, greys, or beiges to create a blank canvas that appeals to a wide range of tastes. A freshly painted home also feels brighter, cleaner, and ready for its next chapter.
4. Focus on kerb appeal
In one of our previous blogs, we uncovered that a whopping 68% of homebuyers prioritise kerb appeal when searching for their dream home. The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make it count! Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and tidy up pathways. Add a welcoming touch with a potted plant by the front door or a freshly painted front gate. Don’t forget to clean or replace your doormat; sometimes, it’s the little details that make the biggest difference. Read our article on kerb appeal for some more ideas on how to spruce up the outside of your home to prepare your home for sale.
5. Repair and maintain
Fixing small issues can have a big impact on a buyer’s perception of your property. Again, it comes back to signalling that the property has been well cared for. Replace broken lightbulbs, tighten loose door handles, and patch up any cracks or holes in the walls. Larger issues, such as a leaky tap or creaky floorboards, are also worth addressing before your home goes on the market. These efforts show buyers your home has been well maintained.
6. Stage your space to sell
Staging your home helps buyers see its full potential. Do a bit of research online. Look at blogs, YouTube videos or TikToks to help you rearrange furniture to maximise space and light, give you ideas on how to create a space that people instantly find comfortable, and consider adding cosy touches like cushions or throws. Set the dining table for a dinner party or add fresh flowers to the living room for a welcoming vibe. There is a reason that new builds stage ‘show homes’ rather than promoting an empty vessel. Think of it as creating a lifestyle buyers will aspire to.
7. Let in the light
Bright, airy homes feel more inviting, so maximise natural light wherever possible. Open curtains or blinds and clean your windows to let light flood in. For rooms with limited natural light, or viewings that are taking place from dusk onward, add and turn on floor or table lamps to create a warm, well-lit atmosphere.
Lighting can be a really effective tool to make a home more inviting, so if you have outdoor lights, make sure these are turned on for evening viewings as well.
8. Highlight your home’s best features
Every home has something that makes it special. Whether it’s a cosy fireplace, a spacious garden, or a recently renovated kitchen, make sure these features stand out. Arrange furniture and be strategic with staging to draw attention to these focal points or use clever lighting to enhance them.
Your estate agent should also focus on these points in their marketing in order to grab buyers’ attention before they even set foot in the door.
Preparing your home for sale might seem like a big task, but the extra effort and planning creates a space that wows buyers and gets the offers rolling in. From decluttering and cleaning to staging and spotlighting, every step brings you closer to your goal of a successful sale. By following these eight tips, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and successful home-selling experience.