You know what they say: you only get one chance to make a first impression! Here’s a handy checklist to help you present your home in the best possible light and maximise its selling potential.

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Outdoors

• Gate: Give it a fresh coat of paint or oil if needed.

• Fence: Repair, paint, or varnish to make it look like new.

• Letterbox: Fix or replace, and consider a new coat of paint.

• Driveway: Repair cracks and clean any oil stains.

• Lawn: Keep it neat with weeding, mowing, edging, and leaf sweeping.

• Garden: Tidy up by weeding, edging, trimming plants, and mulching.

• Pot Plants: Clean, weed, and prune; use them as stylish features.

• Gutters and Eaves: Clean, repair, and paint where necessary.

• Roof: Ensure it’s in good condition with any needed resealing or repairs.

• Garage: Clean and repair the door, and tidy up the interior.

• Paving: Weed and clean for a crisp look.

• Windows: Fix any damaged screens or panes, and clean the glass.

• Welcome Mat: Make sure it’s clean or consider a new one.

• Front Door: Give it a good clean or a fresh coat of paint.

 

Indoors

• Clean: Consider a professional clean for a sparkling finish.

• Freshen Up: Use air fresheners if needed.

• Declutter: Remove unnecessary items to create a sense of space.

• Steps: Repair or resurface any worn areas.

• Lighting: Check bulbs, clean fixtures, and replace shades if needed.

• Window Shades: Clean and check that they work smoothly.

• Flowers: Fresh blooms can add a touch of elegance.

• Floors: Clean, polish, or repair as needed.

• Fireplaces: Ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.

 

Lounge

• Dust: Thoroughly dust all surfaces.

• Declutter: Remove magazines, personal items, and unnecessary appliances.

• Sofa: Repair or replace, and add throws or cushions for style.

• Cupboards: Clean and repair as needed.

• Cords: Hide and tidy any visible cords.

 

Kitchen

• Benches: Keep them clean and clutter-free.

• Taps: Repair and clean for a polished look.

• Oven: Degrease and clean hotplates and the door.

• Fridge: Clean the exterior and remove any decorations.

• Floor: Clean thoroughly and sanitise.

• Cupboards: Tidy up and clean inside and out.

• Decorate: Add a bowl of fresh fruit or flowers for a welcoming touch.

 

Bedrooms

• Bedside Tables: Keep them tidy and clutter-free.

• Bed: Use fresh linen and keep it neatly made.

• Mirrors: Clean thoroughly for a clear reflection.

• Light Switches: Clean and repair if needed.

• Floor: Tidy up and clean.

• Pictures: Dust, straighten, and ensure they’re at eye level.

• Cupboards: Keep them closed and tidy.

 

Dining

• Table: Clean and polish.

• Lighting: Check, clean, and replace shades if necessary.

• Floor: Vacuum thoroughly.

• Decorations: Simplify and declutter.

 

Bathroom

• Sanitise: Clean and freshen up the space.

• Bath: Thoroughly clean.

• Tiles: Clean grout and repair if needed.

• Mirrors: Ensure they are spotless.

• Lighting: Clean, repair, and replace shades if needed.

• Fan: Clean or replace.

• Accessories: Remove personal items like shampoo and toothbrushes.

• Taps: Repair and clean.

• Towels: Replace and tidy.

 

General Tips

• Remove: Create a sense of space by decluttering and removing non-essential items.

• Attract: Use neutral colours and simple decor to appeal to a broad range of buyers.

• Create: Set a serene mood with ambient music and pleasant scents during viewings.

• De-personalise: Pack away personal items to help buyers imagine themselves in the space.

 

Home Style

• Clean: Ensure all areas are spotless and free from dust.

• Light: Fresh paint in light and neutral shades can make rooms look larger and more inviting.

• Align: Hang artwork and photos at eye level and in attractive groupings.

• Space: Create a sense of openness with minimal furnishings and accessories.

 

 

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a fantastic first impression and achieving the best possible sale price for your property. Good luck!