Preparing Your Home For Sale

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions count. A well-prepared property not only attracts more potential buyers but can also result in a quicker sale and a better price. If you're thinking about putting your home on the market, it's important to view it through the eyes of a buyer. Is it clean, welcoming, and spacious? Can they imagine themselves living there, or is it cluttered with your personal belongings?

A little preparation can go a long way. In this guide, we’ll share key tips to help you present your home in the best possible light and maximise its appeal.

SET THE TONE WITH A WELCOMING ENTRANCE

First impressions start at the street, so make sure your home’s exterior is clean and inviting. Spend a few hours improving the entrance by:

• Cleaning roofing, gutters, windows, and pathways.
• Ensuring your front gate is in good condition.
• Keeping garbage bins out of sight and clearing out the letterbox.
• Adding a doormat to show care and attention to cleanliness.
• Placing potted plants near the front door for a touch of greenery.

A freshly painted front door and well-maintained garden are also simple, effective ways to boost curb appeal.

FOCUS ON THE KITCHEN, THE ROOM THAT SELLS

The kitchen is often the room that can make or break a sale. Buyers don’t want to deal with the hassle or expense of a full kitchen upgrade, so it’s crucial to make this space as appealing as possible. Here’s what you can do:

• Clear clutter from benchtops.
• Replace outdated appliances if needed.
• Give the walls a fresh coat of paint.
• Swap out cabinet handles for a quick and easy refresh.
• Ensure good lighting with spotlights or fluorescent under-cabinet lighting.
  
  

MAXIMISE SPACE IN LIVING AREAS

Buyers love spacious living areas, so it’s important to create the illusion of space, even if your home is on the smaller side. Start by:

• Decluttering and removing excess furniture.
• Using neutral colours like blues or greens to make rooms appear larger.
• Keeping furniture below waist height in rooms with low ceilings.
• Highlighting key features such as a fireplace or view.

Neutral, simple decor allows buyers to visualise themselves living in the space.

A CLEAN, STYLISH BATHROOM CAN SEAL THE DEAL

A bathroom that’s clean and functional is key to making a great impression. Pay attention to:

• Cleaning tiles, grout, mirrors, and shower screens until they sparkle.
• Replacing cracked basins or tubs, if necessary.
• Adding luxurious touches like fresh towels, boutique soaps, and a few decorative accessories.
• Ensuring proper ventilation and eliminating any unpleasant odours.

A small bathroom can feel more spacious with large mirrors and a light, simple colour scheme.

CREATE A BEDROOM SANCTUARY

Bedrooms should feel like a peaceful retreat. Maximise the feeling of space by:

• Using neutral colours and reducing the amount of furniture.
• Keeping cupboards and wardrobes neat and tidy.
• Adding a touch of luxury with fresh linen, pillows, and soft lighting.
• Removing personal items like family photos to create a more universal appeal.

Buyers will appreciate a bedroom that feels like a relaxing space to unwind.

GIVE THE GARDEN A FRESH TRIM

Your outdoor spaces should be as well-kept as the interior of your home. Make sure to:

• Weed the garden, mow the lawn, and remove any dead plants.
• Add simple landscaping elements like defining borders and larger potted plants.
• Create a focal point in small courtyards with a water feature or statue.
• Avoid using dark colours that can make the space feel smaller.

Even a small outdoor area can make a big impression with the right attention to detail.

BE MARKETING SAVVY TO STAND OUT

When selling your property, marketing is key to reaching the right audience. A well-thought-out marketing strategy can make a real difference in the sale price. Partnering with a skilled real estate agent who knows how to position your property will ensure it gets maximum exposure.

By taking the time to prepare your home for sale, you’ll increase its appeal and create a welcoming space that buyers can’t resist. Need help getting started? At Atlas, we’re here to guide you through the selling process with expert tips and strategies.