Tips to prepare your house for viewings
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are key. Most buyers form an opinion within moments of walking through the door, and those initial impressions can influence how they see the rest of the property. Taking time to prepare your house properly for viewings not only makes it more appealing but can also help secure stronger offers.
Make cleanliness a priority
A clean home signals that the property has been cared for. Go beyond a quick tidy and focus on areas buyers often notice most:
- Cleaning windows and frames inside and out
- Scrubbing tile grout in bathrooms and kitchens
- Dusting skirting boards, ceiling corners, and light fittings
- Replacing old shower curtains or worn rugs can also give rooms an instant refresh.
Even small updates can make a room feel fresher and more inviting.
Create space by decluttering
Clutter makes rooms feel cramped and can distract buyers from noticing the property itself. Work through each room and remove items that aren’t essential. You don’t need to get rid of everything, but store belongings neatly out of sight to make your home appear bigger, brighter, and more welcoming.
Keep décor neutral and welcoming
Personalised décor might reflect your style, but it can make it harder for buyers to imagine themselves living there. Neutral tones on walls and furnishings help create a calm, inviting backdrop that appeals to a wider audience. The aim isn’t to strip your home of character, but to make it easier for others to picture how they might make it their own.
Brighten your home with better lighting
Lighting has a powerful effect on how rooms are perceived. Dark corners can make spaces feel small, while light-filled rooms feel open and inviting. To maximise light:
- Replace dim or broken bulbs with brighter alternatives
- Add lamps to darker areas
- Use mirrors to reflect natural light
- Open curtains and blinds fully during daytime viewings
Tidy away pet belongings
Not all buyers are pet lovers, and some may be allergic. Before each viewing, remove litter trays, bowls, toys, and beds where possible. If you can, arrange for pets to stay with a friend or family member so visitors can focus entirely on your home.
Focus on curb appeal
The exterior of your home is the very first thing buyers see. A welcoming approach sets the right tone and encourages them to step inside with a positive outlook. Simple improvements include:
- Cleaning windows and tidying the garden
- Cleaning or painting the front door
- Adding a fresh doormat or seasonal plants near the entrance
These small touches can make your property instantly more attractive to prospective buyers.
Organise storage areas
Buyers may open built-in cupboards and wardrobes to check available space. An overfilled cupboard can give the impression that storage is limited, while neatly arranged shelves suggest the opposite. Taking the time to organise storage areas helps to showcase them in their best light.
Final thoughts
Preparing your house for viewings doesn’t have to involve costly renovations. It’s about presenting your property in a way that highlights its strengths and minimises distractions. A fresh, tidy, and welcoming home makes it easier for buyers to imagine themselves living there – and that can lead to stronger offers.
If you’re thinking of selling and would like expert guidance, get in touch with your local branch to book your valuation. Our team can give you tailored advice on how to prepare your home and maximise its appeal to buyers.