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Our guide to: Preparing your home to sell

Thinking about selling your home? Whether you're craving more space or a fresh location, deciding to take that leap is a big step! This guide will help you navigate the process and determine if now is the right time to list your property.
If you are considering putting your house on the market, there are probably a lot of questions going round in your mind. In this article, we hope to answer some of the common questions that homeowners have when they are looking to sell their home.

Why Move?
Most homeowners move every nine to twenty-three years, and the desire to relocate often starts long before the "For Sale" sign goes up. It can take a year or more to finally make that decision, as many wait until the reasons for moving become unavoidable. Frustration with your current living situation can eventually lead you to realise that selling is worth the effort.

Timing Your Sale
Wondering if you should wait for the market to improve? While it’s tempting to time your sale perfectly, personal circumstances often dictate when you need to move—like job changes or family needs. Remember, there’s rarely a perfect time for such a significant decision. Even during tough market conditions, homes still sell; people always need places to live.

Should You Buy Before Selling?
Once you've decided to move, a common question arises: Should you find a new home before selling your current one? Here are some friendly insights:
Finding a Property First
  • Pros: You can secure your dream home right away.
  • Cons: You might feel rushed to sell your current home, potentially leading to lower offers.
Selling First
  • Pros: You can negotiate better and enjoy a less stressful experience.
  • Cons: If you sell first, you might struggle to find a new place quickly, leading to temporary living arrangements.
Balancing both strategies can help ease the stress of moving.

Financing Options
If you're in a position to explore creative financing options, consider buying your new home without relying on equity from your current one. This could involve bridging finance, allowing you to purchase first and sell later. This approach can simplify negotiations and reduce risks associated with chains falling through.

Preparing Your Home for Sale
To maximise your home's appeal and selling price, here are some handy tips:
  • Complete odd jobs: Address minor repairs that could deter buyers.
  • Declutter: A tidy space looks larger and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there.
  • Pre-pack: Get ahead by packing non-essential items early.
  • Enhance curb appeal: Invest time in gardening and outdoor maintenance.
  • Staging: Consider staging key areas of your home to highlight its lifestyle benefits during showings.
These steps can significantly boost your property's attractiveness and lead to a quicker sale at a better price.


Ultimately, deciding when and how to sell your home is personal and should align with what feels right for you. By preparing thoughtfully and considering various strategies, you can navigate this journey with confidence. Once you're ready, reach out to property-selling experts who can help kickstart this exciting new chapter in your life!

If you are thinking about selling your home, why not get in contact with By Design today.