Selling a house is a big job that requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you’re planning to list your property online or showcase it in the real estate market, presenting your house in the best possible light is crucial to attracting potential buyers and achieving a successful sale. In this guide, we will explore essential steps to prepare your house for sale, both online and in real life.

Do You Really Need to Fix Everything Before Selling?

A common myth is that you must fix every issue before putting your house up for sale. In reality, that’s not always the case.

Focus on resolving serious problems such as:

• Structural issues
• Damp or leaks
• Unsafe electrics
• Faulty plumbing or drainage

However, minor cosmetic imperfections, like worn carpets or dated tiles, are not dealbreakers. These can be left as-is, especially if the buyer is likely to renovate anyway. Properties marketed as “modernisation opportunities” often attract DIY enthusiasts and developers looking to add value.

Tip: Include “scope for improvement” or “offers potential” in your listing to appeal to renovation-minded buyers.

Why Home Staging Makes a Difference

First impressions count. According to the Home Staging Association UK, staged homes can sell up to three times faster than non-staged ones. In some cases, staging has helped sellers achieve 8–10% more than their original asking price.

Effective home staging includes:

• Decluttering and depersonalising rooms
• Using neutral colours and good lighting
• Highlighting key features like fireplaces, bay windows or original flooring
• Styling one or two rooms to demonstrate scale and layout

If professional staging isn’t an option, even light DIY staging can help buyers picture themselves living in the property.

Highlight the Property’s Potential

You don’t need a fully renovated home to attract attention. In fact, many buyers prefer a property they can put their own stamp on. Rather than overspending on updates, focus your efforts on:

• A clean, well-maintained exterior (kerb appeal matters)
• Clear, high-quality photos for online listings
• Descriptive and honest property details
• Emphasising space, layout, natural light and any unique features (loft space, garden access, character details)

Common Challenges When Selling a House (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Overpricing

Overvaluing your home is one of the biggest turn-offs for buyers. A property that sits on the market too long risks going stale. Always get several valuations and research recent sold prices in your area on sites like HM Land Registry or Rightmove Sold Prices.

2. Cluttered or Outdated Interiors

A cluttered home makes it harder for viewers to visualise the space. Remove personal items and excess furniture to make rooms appear larger and more neutral.

3. Poor Online Presentation

The vast majority of UK homebuyers start their search online. Investing in professional photography and writing a compelling property description can make a huge difference in click-throughs and viewings.

Legal Disclosures: What Sellers Must Declare

In the UK, sellers are legally obliged to disclose certain issues that may affect the property’s value or safety. Full transparency protects both buyer and seller and helps prevent problems later in the sale.

You may need to declare:

• History of damp, leaks or flooding
• Structural movement or subsidence
• Asbestos or lead paint (especially in older homes)
• Major alterations or extensions (with or without building regs)
• Any disputes with neighbours or boundary issues
• History of pest infestations or environmental risks

Providing this information up front fosters trust and can help your sale progress more smoothly through conveyancing.

Frequently Asked Questions: