Preparing to Sell

Before spending on presentation, agree what your home needs and what will help buyers assess it. A clean, comfortable property and organised information can be more useful than a rushed renovation.

Start with maintenance and paperwork

Make a list of repairs, unfinished work and known issues. Deal with leaks, loose fittings and safety concerns using appropriate tradespeople. Keep invoices and consent or repair documents together. Discuss defects with your salesperson and lawyer; decoration should never conceal a problem buyers need to know about.

For Christchurch homes, gather any earthquake assessment, repair, insurance and consent records you hold. A fresh coat of paint is not a substitute for understanding previous work. Your lawyer and suitable building professionals can advise on missing information and what needs explaining.

Choose a sensible presentation budget

Walk through the property with your salesperson before booking major work. Separate essential repairs from low-cost improvements and optional upgrades. Compare the cost, disruption and timing with the likely usefulness to buyers. No improvement guarantees a higher sale price.

• Clean windows, bathrooms, kitchens and frequently touched surfaces.
• Clear benches and excess furniture so room sizes and circulation are easy to understand.
• Organise cupboards and storage without making the home feel empty or unwelcoming.
• Tidy paths, trim planting that blocks access or light, and clear gutters safely.
• Check lights, handles, doors and visible maintenance details.

Plan photography

Agree the rooms and features to show, then prepare them before the photographer arrives. Put away valuables, family photographs and sensitive paperwork. Consider what is visible through windows, in mirrors and on screens. Discuss pets, vehicles, access and the best light with your salesperson.

Keep the presentation honest. If furniture is digitally added or an image altered, discuss appropriate disclosure. Buyers should be able to recognise what is actually for sale when they visit.

Make viewings comfortable

Allow time to tidy and air the home before a viewing. In colder Christchurch weather, a comfortable indoor temperature helps visitors assess how the rooms feel. Keep entrances safe and dry, secure pets and valuables, and agree how the salesperson will lock up. For a tenanted home, arrange access and notice appropriately through the responsible people rather than assuming an open home can go ahead.

Keep a manageable checklist

Choose what needs doing before photography, before the first open home and during the campaign. Confirm who is responsible for each job. If you cannot complete everything, ask which tasks matter most for your property and timetable.

Arrange a Burnside appraisal before committing to major preparation costs, or call 03 359 0384. For independent advice, read Settled’s preparing-to-sell guidance.