Prepare for viewings

16 October, 2025

How to Prepare Your Home for Viewings

Getting your home ready for viewings is one of the most important steps in the selling process. It’s your chance to make a great first impression and help potential buyers imagine themselves living there. A well-presented home can  help you secure stronger offers.

Here’s how to make your property stand out for all the right reasons.

First Impressions Count

The moment buyers arrive, they start forming an opinion. Make sure the outside looks clean and inviting. Tidy the front garden, clear any leaves, sweep paths and driveways, and make sure bins are clean and tucked away. If you have a gate, fix it if it sticks or squeaks, and give your front door a quick wipe down or fresh coat of paint if it’s looking tired.

Declutter and Depersonalise

A clutter-free space feels bigger, calmer and easier to picture living in. Pack away personal items like family photos, piles of paperwork or children’s toys. You don’t need to strip the home of personality completely, but aim for a clean, neutral look. A buyer should be able to imagine the space as their own.

Let in the Light

Good lighting can transform a room. Open curtains and blinds to make the most of natural light, and if it’s a dull day, switch on lamps to create a warm and welcoming feel. Clean windows make a bigger difference than most people expect, so give them a good polish before viewings.

Create a Fresh Atmosphere

No one likes walking into a stuffy or musty home. Open the windows for a few minutes before viewings. Avoid strong scents, and skip the candles if you’ll be leaving the property unattended -  safety first.

Keep It Clean

A clean home gives buyers confidence that the property has been well looked after. Focus on kitchens and bathrooms in particular, make sure surfaces are spotless, sinks are shiny, and everything smells fresh. Hoover carpets, mop hard floors and give skirting boards and handles a quick wipe.

Style for Comfort

You don’t need to spend a fortune staging your home, but a few touches can make a difference. Add a throw to the sofa, a vase of fresh flowers on the table, or a neatly folded towel in the bathroom. Keep the décor simple and tidy to make the home feel comfortable but not overly “lived in”.

Go Easy on the Seasonal Décor

As we head towards Halloween and Christmas, it’s tempting to go all out with decorations. While it’s fine to add a touch of seasonal charm, try to keep things understated for viewings. Too many decorations can distract buyers or make rooms feel cluttered. A small wreath, a few autumnal touches, or some warm fairy lights are fine  just don’t let them steal the show. Remember, buyers need to picture the house as theirs, not yours.

Final Check Before Viewings

Before each viewing, do a quick walk-through. Make sure everything looks clean, smells fresh, and feels welcoming. Turn on some soft lighting if it’s dark outside, and give the hallway a quick tidy -  it’s the first thing they’ll see.

Thinking about selling?

At Get An Offer, we help sellers present their homes in the best possible light and attract serious buyers fast. Whether you need advice on staging, pricing or preparing for viewings, we’re here to help. Give us a call and let’s get your property ready to impress.