How to Prepare Your Home for Sale: A Practical Pre-Sale Checklist

1. Declutter (Without Making It Bare)

Buyers need to imagine themselves living in your home. Too much stuff makes rooms feel smaller and distracts from the space.

• Clear surfaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms
• Tidy away toys, personal items and bulky furniture
• Box up anything you don’t use daily – it’ll make moving easier too!

2. Clean Like You Mean It

A sparkling clean home shows buyers that it’s been well looked after.

• Wash windows inside and out

• Deep clean the kitchen and bathroom (grout, taps, floors)

• Air out the house before viewings

• Consider a professional clean if time is tight

3. Touch Up Where Needed

">

No need to redecorate, but a few small tweaks can work wonders.

• Repaint scuffed walls with neutral colours

• Repair minor DIY issues – squeaky doors, loose handles, etc.

• Replace burnt-out bulbs and tighten up any fittings

4. Boost Your Kerb Appeal

Many buyers drive by before booking a viewing – don’t let your front garden put them off.

• Mow the lawn, trim hedges, weed paths

• Clean the front door and polish letterboxes/knockers

• Hide bins out of sight where possible

5. Stage Each Room

Show each space off to its full potential – especially important in smaller homes.

• Make bedrooms feel calm and clutter-free

• Lay the dining table or add fresh flowers

• Turn on lamps in darker corners to make the space feel welcoming

6. Get Your Documents in Order

To avoid delays once you accept an offer:

• Locate your title deeds and EPC (we can arrange a new one if needed)

• If leasehold, dig out service charge and ground rent info

• Collect warranties for boilers, windows, or recent works

7. Be Photo-Ready

Photos are the first impression buyers get online, so it’s really important to get these right!  Before we arrange for your photos to be taken, let’s chat and discuss how to show each room in the best way.  Make the most of your photo shoot, it will be worthwhile.