Getting your home ready for sale can feel like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can prepare your property in a way that attracts serious buyers, encourages competitive offers, and helps you achieve the best possible result.
At Martin & Co, we support sellers every day in making the right choices before going to market. From presentation to paperwork, these ten proven tips will give you a strong head start.
First impressions are everything
Buyers start forming opinions from the moment they arrive at the property. A well-presented exterior instantly sets the tone. Clean the windows, sweep the entrance, wipe down the front door, and consider adding a few plants to create a welcoming atmosphere. Attention to detail on the outside shows that the home is cared for on the inside too. These small kerb appeal ideas can go a long way in drawing buyers in.
Related: 9 common mistakes to avoid when selling your home
Let the light work for you
Natural light makes spaces feel open, calm and inviting. Fully open blinds, pull back curtains and remove anything blocking windows. Not only does this brighten rooms, but it also improves how your property looks in marketing photos — which are often the first point of contact for potential buyers. This is one of those simple yet effective home staging tips that help create the right mood.
A deep clean goes a long way
A surface-level tidy won’t cut it. Buyers notice the small things, so now is the time for a proper clean. Dust skirting boards, wipe down door frames, polish taps, and vacuum every corner. Remove cobwebs, refresh soft furnishings, and ensure bathrooms and kitchens sparkle. A clean home feels well-kept and ready to move into — essential when preparing your home for sale.
Related: The cleaning tips that will make your home move in ready
Fix the minor issues
Small maintenance problems can send the wrong message. Replace broken lightbulbs, tighten door handles, fix dripping taps and touch up any chipped paint. These are small jobs but tackling them now prevents buyers from imagining a to-do list before they’ve even made an offer. Consider these quick home improvements before selling as they can positively influence buyer perception.
Clear the clutter
A clutter-free home feels more spacious and easier to imagine living in. Remove unnecessary items from surfaces, tidy shelves and streamline furniture layouts where needed. Don’t forget storage areas — buyers are likely to look inside cupboards and wardrobes, so aim to show these as functional, not overflowing. Decluttering is a vital part of any home selling checklist.
Showcase each room’s purpose
Every room should have a clear function. If you’ve got an unused space or a catch-all room, consider staging it as a home office, bedroom or reading nook. Defined rooms help buyers understand the layout and imagine how they would use the space. This is a great strategy if you’re wondering how to stage a home on a budget – use what you already have to highlight each area’s potential.
Enhance outdoor areas
Outdoor space is an extension of the home, so treat it like any other room. Tidy up patios, balconies or gardens by removing clutter, trimming plants, and arranging any outdoor furniture neatly. These areas don’t need to be large to add value, they just need to feel inviting and looked after. Enhancing these areas can also help increase home value before selling.
Related: How to value garden land
Use houseplants to brighten rooms
While fresh flowers are lovely, they can be costly and difficult to maintain throughout the selling process. Houseplants are a practical alternative that bring life and colour into your home. They’re low maintenance, help improve air quality and add a calm, contemporary feel to living spaces.
Get the paperwork ready early
Having your documents organised from the outset can help avoid delays once an offer is received. Line up a solicitor, and gather essential documents like warranties, certificates for electrical or plumbing work, and records of planning permissions or alterations. Leasehold properties may require a management pack, so it’s best to start this process early.
Price realistically and stay flexible
Pricing your property correctly from day one can make a huge difference. A valuation grounded in local market trends and comparable sales ensures your home attracts genuine interest.
Overpricing can reduce enquiries, while a fair and realistic price often encourages more viewings and even multiple offers. Being flexible around viewings and timelines can also work in your favour, helping negotiations go smoothly. Your agent can also guide you on the best time to sell a house based on current market conditions and buyer activity.
Ready to take the next step?
Preparing your home for sale doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of time, care and guidance, you can make the most of what your property has to offer—and ensure it stands out to buyers for all the right reasons.
At Martin & Co, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From honest advice on presentation to professional pricing strategies, our local property experts are on hand to help you get ready for a successful sale.
Thinking about selling? Get in touch with your local Martin & Co office for a free, no-obligation property valuation today.
