Preparing your property before listing it for sale can make a big difference to both buyer
interest and final sale price. Here are key steps every seller should consider:
First Impressions Set the Mood
The first few seconds matter. Buyers often make up their mind before they even step through
the door. Ensure the front garden, entryway, and exterior are clean, tidy, and welcoming. A
pressure wash, fresh mulch, or new doormat can do wonders.
Get a Building & Pest Inspection
Organising a building and pest inspection before listing is one of the most important steps a
seller can take. While buyers usually arrange their own report once a contract is signed, the
results often don’t come back until halfway through the contract period—leaving sellers
with limited time to respond.
If the report reveals problems, the buyer may try to renegotiate the price, cancel the
contract, or request repairs—all at a time when the seller may only have two weeks left until
settlement. At this stage, you're under pressure: accept a lower price, scramble to fix the
issue, or risk losing the sale altogether.
By getting your own inspection done beforehand, you’re in control. You can fix any problems
early, avoid unexpected surprises, and even present the clean report to buyers upfront. This
gives buyers more confidence and helps protect your price.
Tidy Up Small Jobs
Take care of minor repairs—leaky taps, cracked tiles, sticking doors, chipped paint. These
small details suggest the home has been well cared for and can help buyers feel more
confident in making an offer.
Avoid Big Renovations
Unless it’s easy, low-cost, and in your skillset, major updates like kitchens or bathrooms
are best left to the buyer. You might not recoup the cost, and buyers often want to choose
their own styles and colours anyway. Focus instead on cleanliness, space, and natural
light—these matter more than big-ticket changes.
By focusing on presentation, transparency, and practical improvements, you’ll reduce
stress, speed up the sales process, and maximise your property’s appeal—without
overcapitalising.
