Selling Tips

A well-presented home helps buyers notice its strengths and imagine how they could use the space. Start with the work that makes the biggest practical difference, rather than assuming a major renovation is needed before you sell.

Make a plan before you spend

Walk through your property as though you were seeing it for the first time. Look at the entrance, natural light, room layout, storage and maintenance. Ask your salesperson which improvements are likely to matter to the buyers for your home, and set a budget before booking work.

Bring together records for alterations, consents and completed work. Discuss known defects and any earthquake claims or repairs with your salesperson and lawyer. Keep a clear chattels list and identify anything you intend to remove so it can be dealt with in the agreement. Cosmetic work should never conceal a defect that a buyer needs to know about.

Outside appeal

A welcoming entrance

Clear the paths, tidy the gate and front door, remove garden rubbish and sweep the deck or entrance. A few well-placed pots can add colour without a large landscaping bill. Keep lawns and edges tidy through the campaign, and clear sheds and outdoor storage so buyers can see their useful space.

Clean surfaces carefully

Clean exterior surfaces using a method suitable for the material and finish. Get advice before pressure washing cladding or painted surfaces. Look after fences, steps, paths and decks as well as the house itself.

Light and outdoor living

Trim planting where appropriate to open up light and useful views, checking any restrictions before substantial tree work. Set outdoor furniture so buyers can understand the space. If you have a pool, keep it clean and put equipment away safely; presentation does not replace checking the required safety arrangements.

Plan for pets

Arrange a safe place for pets during viewings and remove bowls, toys and litter trays where practical. Tell your salesperson about access or animal-handling needs so nobody is caught by surprise.

Inside appeal

Clean, fresh and comfortable

Give windows, floors, kitchens, bathrooms and laundry areas a thorough clean. Carpet and soft furnishings may benefit from professional cleaning, especially where there are pet odours. Ventilate the home appropriately and keep it comfortably warm for viewings. Avoid strong fragrances that may distract buyers or suggest a problem is being masked.

Show the space

Clear benchtops and unnecessary furniture, organise cupboards and pack away items you do not use every day. Leave enough furniture to show how each room works. Rearranging what you already own may be enough; discuss staging only if it adds useful value for your property.

Paint and minor repairs

Attend to loose handles, sticking doors and obvious maintenance. If paint needs attention, choose an appropriate finish and allow time for careful preparation. A rushed touch-up can draw attention to the wrong thing. Use qualified tradespeople where the work calls for them.

Kitchens, bathrooms and laundry

Make these rooms clean, usable and easy to inspect. Deal with the cause of dampness or mould rather than covering it up. Before replacing cabinetry, benchtops or flooring, compare the cost with the likely benefit and the time available. Buyers may prefer to make their own larger changes.

Before each viewing

• Open curtains and blinds, and turn on lights where needed.
• Check room temperature, tidy beds and put everyday clutter away.
• Secure valuables, medicines and personal documents.
• Clear safe access to the house, garage and outdoor areas.
• Agree how private viewings will be arranged and tell your salesperson about any changes to the property.

For a tailored starting point, book an appraisal or call 03 337 5024. Read our selling-method guide to connect preparation with the campaign you choose.