How to Declutter Your Home Before Selling to Maximise Appeal
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. Buyers often make up their minds within moments of stepping through the door.
As a real estate agent, we’ve seen firsthand how decluttering can significantly impact both the speed of sale and the final price. A tidy, organised home not only feels more spacious, but it also helps potential buyers imagine themselves living there.
Here’s how you can declutter effectively before putting your home on the market.
1. Start Early and Tackle One Room at a Time
Decluttering can be overwhelming if you try to do everything at once. Start as early as possible—ideally a few weeks before you plan to list your home.
Work room by room, beginning with less-used areas like the garage or spare bedroom. This builds momentum and makes the process manageable.
2.Sort Items Into Categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, Store
Be ruthless. If you haven’t used something in the last year, it’s likely you won’t miss it. Create four categories:
Keep: Items you use regularly or need for staging.
Donate: Things in good condition that others can use.
Sell: Consider selling valuable items online or in a garage sale.
Store: Pack away personal items or seasonal gear in storage (off-site if possible).
3.Depersonalise the Space
Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the home—not be reminded that it belongs to someone else.
Remove family photos, personal collections and quirky decor. This creates a blank canvas that appeals to a wider audience and helps buyers emotionally connect with the property.
4.Focus on High-Impact Areas
Pay particular attention to the kitchen, bathrooms and living spaces.
Clear off countertops, remove excess furniture and tidy open shelves.
In bedrooms, minimise what’s on bedside tables and make sure wardrobes aren’t overflowing—they should look spacious, not cramped.
5.Declutter Storage Spaces Too
Buyers will look inside wardrobes, cupboards and the garage. Overstuffed storage areas suggest a lack of space.
Aim for about 30% empty space in closets and cabinets to show off the home’s storage potential.
6.Clean as You Go
Decluttering naturally leads to cleaning. As you clear each area, give it a thorough clean. This includes wiping down surfaces, dusting skirting boards, cleaning windows and removing cobwebs.
A sparkling clean home suggests it has been well-maintained.
7.Consider Professional Help
If time is short or you feel overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional organiser or decluttering service. We can put you in touch with trusted professionals who can help prepare your home for sale efficiently and effectively.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up—it’s a strategic move that can add thousands to your sale price.
By creating a clean, spacious and neutral environment, you make it easier for buyers to fall in love with your home.
If you’re thinking of selling and want advice on getting your property market-ready, we’re here to help every step of the way.