When it comes to selling your home, the art and science involved to maximise the opportunity, and to help get you the best possible result, is why working with a trusted advisor is paramount – but one element that is tried and tested and which proves to be of value when it comes to creating an emotional connection with prospective buyers, is how your home presents – or more specifically, how you create an environment they can picture themselves in.  

With a little effort (and maybe a few trips to the DIY shop) you can make your home irresistible to buyers. Here’s how to get it done. 

Step 1: Clean Like Never Before 

We’re not talking about your usual weekend dusting; it’s time to channel your inner Marie Kondo. Scrub the kitchen tiles, polish the windows and banish dust bunnies from every corner. Potential buyers genuinely notice these things—and a sparkling home screams “Well-loved and ready for you.” Plus, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t prefer a sparkling bathroom over one that resembles a science experiment? 

Step 2: Declutter With Ruthless Determination 

It’s time to part ways with that stack of magazines from 2004 and the novelty mugs that have been gathering dust. The goal is to create space for buyers to imagine themselves living there. A clutter-free living room signals a promising fresh start—not a battle against chaos. Not sure what to do with your treasures (or, ahem, junk)? Box them up, donate them, or lovingly stash them away. 

Step 3: Fix What’s Broken 

Buyers aren’t looking for a never-ending DIY project, so it’s worth investing a little time (and elbow grease) into small repairs. Replace broken light fixtures, fix squeaky doors, and repair any scuffed-up walls. You don’t have to break the bank, but even simple touch-ups can go a long way. Got a dripping tap in the bathroom? It’s time to call on that expert friend, send the job out to Airtasker or if you’re handy, catch-up on YouTube video demonstrations and get it done so its off the list. 

Step 4: Freshen Up the Kitchen and Bathroom 

It’s a well known fact that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. You don’t need a full remodel but small updates can work wonders. Think new cabinet handles, a fresh lick of paint on the walls, or re-grouting the shower. These tweaks make your home feel well-maintained and ready to welcome its new owners. Bonus points for adding a few pretty plants or candles in these spaces for an extra touch of charm! 

Step 5: Tidy Up the Exterior 

First impressions matter—buyers will judge your home the second they pull up to the kerb. Make sure the garden is tidy, mow the lawn, plant a few bright flowers, and waterblast the driveway. If your front door is looking a little ‘loved’, a fresh coat of paint can transform their experience from the entrance. 

Step 6: Master the Art of Staging 

Staging is a bit like setting the scene for a perfect date—it’s all about winning them over. Arrange your furniture so the rooms feel spacious and welcoming. Use soft lighting, stylish accents, and cosy touches like throws and cushions. A vase of fresh flowers in the dining room or a bowl of lemons in the kitchen can visually seal the deal. And don’t forget to depersonalise—family photos are lovely, but buyers want to imagine their story in your home. But if all that sounds a bit daunting…

Need Help? We’re Here for You! 

At Harcourts, we’ve got decades of experience helping sellers, buyers, and investors just like you. If prepping your home for sale is starting to feel like an episode of a property makeover show gone wrong, give us a call. We’ll offer expert advice and be with you every step of the way—without any judgement about that wallpaper you swore was trendy in the ’90s. 

Get in touch, and let’s make sure your home is first on every buyer’s wish list. After all, selling your home should feel as exciting as starting a new chapter—not as stressful as assembling flat-pack furniture without instructions! 

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