Prepare your property for sale

A few practical things to think about before you list, that can make a real difference to your sale.

By Andrea Howey
Reading time 2 – 3 minutes Updated

Fix any known issues

It’s a good idea to fix any known issues before you put your property on the market.

Buyers (and their builders) tend to round up estimated repair costs to allow for a margin of error,. Any offer they make is likely to be less that inflated amount.

Subsequently it can be more cost effective to fix issues upfront, and it could result in a speedier sale.

Financing repairs

Consider whether to borrow upfront. Just like paying an estate agent, you can ask your lawyer to repay on settlement.

If you don’t have the cash available to fund home improvements, you could consider financing the work instead.

There are a number of specialist providers that loan money for this scenario. You borrow money upfront to pay for home improvements or any other costs attached to selling (photography, marketing etc.) and then ask your lawyer to repay on settlement.

Clear away the clutter

Before your photos are taken, clear away the clutter.

It’s also a good idea to obscure anything that might be unique or personal to you. Buyers need to be able to imagine themselves living in your home. And so if some of your ornaments or furniture aren’t to everyone’s tastes, it’s in your best interests to pop them away, just temporarily while your home is photographed, and while you’re taking viewings.