How to get your house ready to sell
Getting your house ready to sell is more than just cleaning and tidying. Buyers form impressions quickly, and small details can make or break a sale. The better your property looks and feels, the easier it will be to attract serious offers. But getting to that ‘move-in ready’ standard takes work. From cosmetic updates and deep cleans to garden maintenance and last-minute touch-ups, it’s not always as simple as it sounds. That’s why we’ve included a full checklist—plus an easier alternative if you want to skip the hassle.
Buyers are drawn to homes that feel clean, neutral, and well cared for. A few focused improvements can make a big difference.
Key points include:
- Decluttering and deep cleaning help create space and clarity.
- Small fixes and cosmetic updates often deliver higher ROI than big renovations.
- Kitchens, bathrooms, and gardens are key areas to impress.
- First impressions matter—so boost kerb appeal and lighting.
- If you’re short on time or patience, you can sell your home as-is.
Start with decluttering and depersonalising
Clearing out personal items and visual clutter helps potential buyers picture themselves in the space.
- Remove excess furniture and store away kids’ toys, paperwork, and decorations.
- Keep shelves and surfaces clear—especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Box up anything you won’t need before moving and consider short-term storage.
Why it matters: Decluttered homes appear larger, cleaner, and more inviting—and they sell faster.
Deep clean kitchens and bathrooms
These are often the most scrutinised rooms by buyers. Make sure they shine.
Kitchen
- Clear countertops and remove appliances and clutter.
- Clean all surfaces, including inside and outside of the fridge, oven, and microwave.
- Wipe down cabinets, polish taps, and thoroughly mop the floor.
- Remove grease from extractor fans and check corners for crumbs or stains.
Bathroom
- Scrub tiles and clean grout to remove mold or discolouration.
- Clean toilets, showers, and basins until they sparkle.
- Replace old or stained sealant around sinks and baths.
- Polish mirrors and chrome fittings for a fresh, modern look.
Tip: Consider professional cleaning if you’re tight on time or want a deep, high-standard finish.
Focus on small cosmetic updates
Small improvements often deliver the biggest impact, especially compared to large-scale renovations.
- Touch up paintwork with light, neutral colours.
- Replace old sealant, fix cracked tiles, and tighten loose handles.
- Update old light fittings or sockets for a more modern feel.
- Add mirrors to maximise light and space.
- Refresh the front door with a new coat of paint or updated hardware.
Why this works: Minor cosmetic fixes are low cost, quick to complete, and improve perceived value. They’re far more effective than major renovations, which can be expensive and may not align with buyers’ tastes.
Tidy the garden and boost kerb appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see—and it sets the tone.
- Mow the lawn, weed flower beds, and trim hedges.
- Power wash patios, driveways, and paths.
- Repaint fences or touch up garden furniture if needed.
- Add flowers or plants to create a welcoming feel.
- Clean windows and remove cobwebs from door frames or porches.
A tidy, well-kept garden suggests the rest of the home is equally well cared for, and it makes buyers feel more confident.
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Highlight your home’s potential with light staging
You don’t need to hire a professional stylist, but a little effort goes a long way.
- Arrange furniture to create flow and maximise natural light.
- Set the dining table or add fresh flowers to key spaces.
- Use soft throws, cushions, or neutral rugs to add warmth and texture.
Goal: Make it easy for buyers to imagine living there. The more comfortable and ‘finished’ it feels, the better the impression.
Prioritise these maintenance tasks
Buyers notice small faults and may assume bigger problems if they spot neglected details. Fix the basics:
- Repair squeaky doors, broken latches, and damaged skirting boards.
- Make sure all lightbulbs work and blinds or curtains are in good condition.
- Secure loose tiles, tighten railings, and replace cracked sockets.
- Clear gutters and tidy external pipework.
Don’t forget safety and functionality. Address anything that could create concern—leaks, drafts, faulty electrics, or water pressure issues.
Why small updates beat big renovations
It can be tempting to upgrade kitchens or bathrooms before selling, but it’s not always worth it.
Here’s why small cosmetic fixes are usually better:
- Lower cost: Paint, light fittings, sealant, and handles are inexpensive.
- Higher ROI: You’re more likely to recoup your investment.
- Faster results: You can complete them quickly and list sooner.
- Broad appeal: Buyers can imagine putting their own stamp on things.
- Less risk: You avoid over-improving or missing the mark with buyer preferences.
Still sounds like a lot of work?
Even with all this guidance, preparing your home to sell is rarely quick or stress-free. You may need to:
- Spend weekends making repairs and painting.
- Coordinate cleaning, staging, and photoshoots.
- Delay listing until everything’s ‘just right’.
- Stay available for viewings or open houses.
If that sounds overwhelming, you’re not alone. There’s a simpler option that avoids all the prep work.
Avoid the hassle. Sell your home as-is.
At Habello, we buy homes in any condition—no cleaning, fixing, or staging required.
- Get a free valuation today.
- Receive an initial offer by phone.
- Final cash offer within 48 hours.
- Offer based on fair market value.
- No legal fees when you use our partner solicitor.
If you’re ready to move on without the stress, we’re ready to help.
Property owners are choosing Habello for a faster, easier and less stressful way to sell
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