After living somewhere for a while, it's hard to see what a buyer sees. Try stepping back and looking at your home with fresh eyes, or ask a friend to walk through it and tell you honestly what they notice.
First impressions start outside
- Mow the lawn, trim hedges and weed the garden beds
- Wash the windows, the path and the front door
- Tidy the letterbox, doorbell and house number
- Put away bins, hoses and toys before photos and viewings
Declutter
Clear the benchtops, cupboards and floors. Buyers want to imagine their own life in the space, and a tidy home feels bigger and calmer. Store spare furniture and family photos out of sight.
Let in light and keep it fresh
Open the curtains, clean the windows and check every light bulb works. A clean, fresh-smelling home feels cared for. Air it out before a viewing, and avoid strong scents that might put people off.
Fix the little things
A dripping tap, a sticking door or a cracked tile can make buyers wonder what else has been left. Small repairs are usually quick and inexpensive, and they help a buyer feel confident.
Make it warm
In Southland, warmth is a big selling point. Have the heat pump or fire on before a viewing on a cold day, so the home feels welcoming the moment people walk in.
Quick tip
Do a walk-through before photos and viewings as if you were a buyer. What's the first thing you notice? Fix that first.
This is general information only, not legal, financial or building advice. Rules and market conditions change, so check the details with your lawyer, lender or the relevant authority before making decisions.
