So, you’re selling your home. You’ve scrubbed, decluttered, and maybe even Googled “how to make my house smell expensive.” But now it’s time for the real deal: house viewings.
Potential buyers are about to walk through your door, and first impressions aren’t just important—they’re EVERYTHING. If you want them to fall in love with your home (and maybe even spark a bidding war 💰), you’ll need to prep like a pro.
Here’s how to stage, sparkle, and sell—without breaking a sweat.
- Declutter Like You’re Kim Woodburn’s Protégé 📦
Nothing kills a sale faster than clutter. Buyers aren’t just looking at your house—they’re imagining their lives in it. And trust me, no one dreams of living among piles of paperwork, tangled phone chargers, and that mystery drawer full of takeaway menus.
✅ Clear surfaces – Countertops, tables, and shelves should be neat and minimal.
✅ Tidy up storage spaces – Yes, buyers WILL open cupboards, so don’t just shove everything inside!
✅ Depersonalize – Family photos, quirky collectibles, and fridge magnets? Pack them away.
💡 Pro Tip: If it doesn’t “spark joy” (or at least look aesthetically pleasing), hide it.
- Clean Like Your Mother-in-Law is Visiting 🧼
There’s “clean,” and then there’s house viewing clean—and the difference is everything. Buyers don’t just see dirt; they see “extra work” (and a reason to lower their offer).
✅ Deep clean EVERYTHING – Floors, walls, doors, and even those tricky skirting boards.
✅ Focus on the kitchen & bathrooms – If these aren’t spotless, buyers will assume the whole house is neglected.
✅ Wash the windows – Natural light sells homes, so let the sunshine in! ☀️
💡 Pro Tip: Got pets? De-fur EVERYTHING. Not everyone loves Fluffy as much as you do.
- Fix the Little Things (Because Buyers Notice EVERYTHING) 🔧
You might have stopped noticing the dripping tap, squeaky door, or that one lightbulb that’s been out since 2021—but buyers won’t.
✅ Tighten loose handles & hinges – Small details = big impressions.
✅ Touch up scuffed walls – A fresh coat of paint works wonders! 🎨
✅ Fix leaky taps & creaky floors – These minor annoyances can be deal-breakers.
💡 Pro Tip: Buyers will test switches, taps, and doors. Make sure they all work!
- Let There Be Light! 💡
Dark, gloomy rooms feel smaller—and nobody wants that. The fix? Maximize light like a pro.
✅ Open all curtains & blinds – Natural light is your best friend!
✅ Switch on lamps & overhead lights – Soft, warm lighting makes rooms feel cozy.
✅ Use mirrors strategically – They reflect light and make rooms look bigger.
💡 Pro Tip: If it’s an evening viewing, light some candles for a warm, inviting glow.
- Make Your Home Smell Irresistible 👃
A bad smell is a one-way ticket to “no thanks”. But a fresh, inviting scent? That’s buyer bait.
✅ Air it out – Open windows at least 30 minutes before viewings.
✅ Skip the overpowering air fresheners – Fresh-baked cookies? Yes. Artificial “Hawaiian Breeze”? No.
✅ Eliminate pet & cooking smells – Deep clean carpets, sofas, and litter trays.
💡 Pro Tip: Brew fresh coffee or bake bread before a viewing. It’s a cliché for a reason—it works!
- Stage It Like a Show Home 🛋️
Staging is all about making your home look its absolute best—without making it feel staged.
✅ Fluff the cushions & fold throws neatly – A tidy sofa is an inviting sofa.
✅ Set the dining table – Nothing fancy, just a stylish centerpiece and some plates.
✅ Add fresh flowers & houseplants – Instant homely vibes. 🌿🌸
💡 Pro Tip: Create a “lifestyle” buyers want—think cozy corners, inviting reading nooks, and hotel-like bedding.
- Boost Your Kerb Appeal 🚪
Before buyers even step inside, they’ve already judged your home from the outside. Make sure it’s love at first sight.
✅ Tidy up the front garden & driveway – Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove weeds.
✅ Paint the front door – A fresh coat makes a HUGE difference.
✅ Add a new doormat & some potted plants – Small touches = big impact.
💡 Pro Tip: If your house has a house number or nameplate, give it a clean—it’s the first thing buyers see!
- Plan for a Smooth Viewing 🏡
When it’s time for buyers to arrive, make sure everything is stress-free and seamless.
✅ Take pets out – Not everyone loves dogs or cats (shocking, I know).
✅ Set the temperature right – Cozy in winter, cool in summer.
✅ Leave the house (if possible) – Buyers feel more comfortable exploring when the owner isn’t hovering.
💡 Pro Tip: Create a “wow moment”—have soft music playing, light a scented candle, and let buyers feel at home.
Final Thoughts: The Secret to a Winning House Viewing?
It’s all about creating a space buyers can fall in love with.
✨ Clean, declutter, and fix the little things.
✨ Make it bright, welcoming, and great-smelling.
✨ Show buyers the lifestyle they could have.
And most importantly… relax! A well-prepped home sells itself. 🏡💰
💬 Thinking of selling? Drop your questions below! 👇 And don’t forget to like, share & tag someone getting ready for house viewings!
