Preparing Your Home for Sale: A Room-by-Room Checklist

Simple steps to help your home shine before it hits the market.

First impressions matter. When it comes to selling your home, presentation can make a huge difference to the price you achieve and how quickly it sells. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get it right. A tidy, well-maintained home that’s clean and clutter-free often outshines even the most heavily renovated properties.

Here’s a practical room-by-room checklist to help you prepare your home for sale and present it at its best.

1. Front Entrance & Street Appeal

Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see, so it needs to be inviting.

• Mow the lawn and tidy up garden beds

• Clean gutters and remove cobwebs

• Water blast the driveway and paths

• Repaint or touch up the front door

• Add a potted plant or two near the entrance

• Make sure your house number is clearly visible

2. Living Room

This is where buyers imagine themselves relaxing, so aim for a calm, spacious feel.

• Declutter shelves, surfaces, and coffee tables

• Remove personal photos and keep things neutral

• Clean windows and open curtains for natural light

• Add a throw or cushions for a modern touch

• Vacuum and mop floors

• Arrange furniture to show space and flow

3. Kitchen

Often the heart of the home and a key selling point.

• Clear benchtops and leave only a few essentials

• Wipe down all surfaces, including cupboards and splashbacks

• Clean the oven, stovetop, and microwave

• Organise pantry and cupboards as buyers do look inside

• Remove fridge magnets and personal notes

• Add a bowl of fruit or fresh flowers for a homely touch

4. Dining Area

Help buyers picture family dinners or dinner parties.

• Clear the table and add a simple centrepiece

• Ensure chairs are neatly arranged

• Remove high chairs or bulky extra seating if it crowds the space

• Clean light fixtures and ensure good lighting

5. Bedrooms

These should feel restful, spacious, and private.

• Make all beds neatly with neutral bedding

• Declutter bedside tables and wardrobes

• Remove laundry baskets and excess furniture

• Tidy under the beds as buyers may peek

• Use lamps or soft lighting for ambience

6. Bathrooms

Buyers expect bathrooms to be spotless. Aim for hotel-level cleanliness.

• Scrub shower, bath, and toilet

• Remove personal toiletries

• Add fresh, neatly folded towels

• Clean mirrors and shine taps

• Use subtle air fresheners or open windows to ventilate

7. Home Office (if applicable)

With remote work becoming more common, this space is a bonus for many buyers.

• Tidy the desk and hide cables where possible

• Ensure the space is well lit

• Clear clutter and organise paperwork

• Add a plant or neutral artwork

8. Garage, Laundry & Storage Areas

These often get overlooked but can be a big selling point, especially for upsizers.

• Clear out junk and donate or discard unused items

• Sweep floors and organise tools or shelves

• Ensure the laundry is clean and bright

• Remove piles of washing or excess products

Final Touches Before Each Viewing

• Open curtains and windows for light and airflow

• Turn on lamps or soft lighting

• Put away pets and remove odours

• Empty rubbish and recycling bins

• Do a final walkthrough to check for clutter or marks

Need Help or Advice?

Preparing your home for sale doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I guide my clients through every step of the process, from pre-sale prep to digital marketing strategy, to ensure your property stands out and performs at its best.

If you’d like tailored advice on how to get your home ready for market, feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to help.