It’s not always the state of the fixtures and fittings that affect a sale, the emotional attachment you have on your home also needs to be overcome. It might be the first home you bought and you’re selling to ‘upsize’ or maybe the kids have left home and you’re looking for something smaller – but we bet you can still see the ‘grow marks’ on the kids’ bedroom door!

But seller beware – these emotional attachments can be a major problem when it comes to selling the property. You need to detach yourself from the memories and mementos, and think of your former home as a product ready to be sold.

In my experience, potential buyers don’t remember the spacious lounge with the great view; they remember the silver spoon collection your great aunt left you and the assortment of battered teddy bears from your younger years.

Even though you’re living in the house you’re selling, you need to detach yourself emotionally from the property so you can fully prepare it for sale.

Declutter and Depersonalise

It may feel like you’re living in a sterile hotel room without your favourite belongings around you, but remember, in the scheme of things, it’s only for a short time. The motto is keep it simple and declutter. While you love the mask you bought in Africa ten years ago, others might find it a little creepy and your NRL memorabilia may be impressive – but maybe not if the potential buyer supports the other team.

By clearing the house of personal clutter, you’ll open up spaces and make rooms appear bigger and spacious. While you do want the place to feel welcoming and homely, you want people to imagine themselves living in the property, not to feel they’ve walked into someone else’s patch.

Clear the Kids’ Clutter

A house with kids is never easy to keep tidy at the best of times, let alone when you’re selling. Some parents enter into some serious negotiations with their children such as promising them the rumpus of the new house for all their belongings if they keep their room tidy – but remember, you’ll need to keep that promise!

Save Time and Feel Good

There is a bonus for packing early – you’ll save yourself packing time later down the track. Research shows many people feel better for decluttering, so now might also be the time to make some serious decisions about what you want to keep and what you want to let go of as you move to a new home. Get rid of obsolete clutter by holding a garage sale, selling it online or give it to charity.

Fantastic Photos

They say a picture says a thousand words and in today’s digital world it’s all about the image – so make sure you’ve got some good ones for promotional listings so people want to actually come and look at the property. Turn all the lights on to lighten rooms and rearrange furniture if necessary. Often it’s worth employing a professional photographer who’ll find the best angle to present the room.

If you want to know some more tips about how to prepare your house for sale, we’ve got a great little e-book. Simple Simply text “Profit” to 0416 906 799 and we’ll instantly send it to you!

Alternatively ring us on 02 4954 8833 or call into our office so we can personally give you some tips and keep you focused and motivated to achieve your real estate dreams.

We’re always looking at ways in which to help you get the best out of your property. With over 40 years in the business, our talented team is constantly looking for new and innovative ways to ensure your real estate experience is exceptional. This is why we are one of Newcastle’s longest established real estate offices.