The exterior of your home creates the all-important first impression. If buyers are not attracted from the street, they may walk in already feeling less positive about the property. A little time and effort spent outside can make a real difference.

1. Tidy the grounds
   Mow the lawns, trim edges, weed gardens, and tidy any overgrown shrubs or hedges. A neat, well-maintained section immediately makes a property more inviting.
2. Refresh paintwork where needed
   Touch up any areas of exterior paintwork that are peeling, chipped, or tired-looking. Even small improvements can lift the overall presentation.
3. Clean the exterior surfaces
   Wash down cladding, decks, fences, outdoor furniture, and any other visible surfaces that may have built up dirt, mould, or cobwebs.
4. Repair minor defects
   Fix anything obvious that may suggest poor maintenance, such as loose boards, broken latches, damaged steps, or cracked fittings.
5. Make the entrance appealing
   Ensure the front door, entranceway, and porch area are clean, tidy, and welcoming. This is one of the first areas buyers will notice.
6. Tidy paths, driveways, and gardens
   Remove weeds from garden beds, paths, and driveways. Sweep paved areas and make sure the letterbox is clean, straight, and in good repair.
7. Clear drains and spouting
   Clean out drains and spouting, and remove any grass, leaves, or debris from gutters where visible.
8. Check windows and frames
   Repair any broken windows and make sure window frames are clean and in sound condition. Repaint them if needed.
9. Improve outdoor living areas
   Decks, patios, and outdoor entertaining spaces should be clean, uncluttered, and easy for buyers to picture themselves using.
10. Remove rubbish and excess storage
    Clear away rubbish, unused materials, and anything left over from unfinished projects. Tidy the garage, shed, and storage areas to create a greater sense of space.

Once the exterior is looking its best, attention should turn to the interior. Again, the goal is not to spend unnecessarily, but to make the home feel clean, spacious, and well presented.

1. Focus on presentation, not major expense
   You do not need to undertake major renovations before selling, but sensible presentation improvements can make your home more attractive to buyers.
2. Clean thoroughly
   Give the home a thorough clean from top to bottom. Pay particular attention to kitchens, bathrooms, windows, flooring, skirting boards, and light fittings.
3. Complete minor repairs
   Fix small maintenance issues such as dripping taps, loose handles, sticking doors, damaged trim, or cracked light switches. These details matter.
4. Secure valuable and personal items
   Jewellery, cash, medication, and other valuable or personal belongings should be put away securely during the marketing period.
5. Let in light
   Open curtains and blinds to maximise natural light. Bright, airy rooms generally feel more appealing and spacious.
6. Reduce clutter
   Remove unnecessary furniture, piles of paper, excess ornaments, and general clutter. A less crowded room will usually feel larger and more inviting.
7. Keep décor neutral where possible
   Buyers should be able to imagine themselves living in the home. A calm, tidy presentation helps create that feeling.
8. Freshen up paintwork if needed
   Repainting tired or marked walls in light, neutral colours can be a worthwhile improvement if the interior is looking dated or worn.
9. Tidy kitchen and bathroom areas
   Clear benchtops and keep kitchens and bathrooms as uncluttered as possible. Repair or replace any loose or damaged handles, knobs, or fittings.
10. Present the home as clean, tidy, and spacious
    A home can still feel lived in, but it should be presented as neatly and simply as possible. Pack away excess clothing, toys, games, ornaments, and other non-essential items where practical.