How to Present Your Property for Sale and Save Thousands

When it comes to presenting your property for inspection, simple touches — like putting the toilet seat down — could net you thousands of dollars. Seriously.

This might sound counterintuitive, but most buyers walk through an open home looking for reasons not to buy. You read that right.

They’re hunting for “the one.” A property might tick all the boxes — price, features, location — but they don’t want to commit emotionally or financially only to regret it later. That’s why perception is everything. Think of it like online dating. Selling your home is about making a great first impression and sealing the deal — just like landing a date.

First Impressions Count

A buyer — or a potential date — needs to be wowed from the start. Imagine Tinder (or whatever app’s your flavour) and there’s no profile pic. Swipe left. Same goes for your listing. Quality photos eliminate doubt and build trust in the buyer's mind.

Get Cleaned Up

They’ve swiped right, they’re interested — now comes inspection day. Your home might be "reasonably presentable," but if you were heading out on a date, would "reasonably presentable" cut it? Or would you tidy up, get a haircut, change your shirt, and make sure your shoes are clean?

With your property, ask yourself: What would someone see when they pull up out front? Take a step back — literally — and look with fresh eyes. Is the lawn mown? Garden tidy? Hose rolled up? Are cars parked neatly? These little things matter. You want people stepping out of their car with curiosity, not hesitation.

Inside, clean like your sale depends on it — because it does. Do the dishes. Pack away clutter. Hire a carpet cleaner if you’ve got stains. Wash the blinds. Scrub the bathroom like you’re expecting royalty. And yes, put the toilet seat down. People notice. If it all sounds too much, hire a professional cleaner — it’ll pay for itself.

A Note on Renovations

Unless you’re getting at least a dollar back for every dollar spent, skip the renos. Don't gut the kitchen or overhaul the bathroom. It won’t add the value you think it will. Instead, focus on clean, neat, and tidy — that’s your sweet spot.

Look Good, Smell Good

Before you head out on a date, you’ll splash on some cologne or perfume. Same idea here — your home needs to appeal to all the senses.

Bake some bread, brew fresh coffee — these smells feel like home and trigger comfort. Pop in an air freshener in the bathroom and toilet. Air out the gym, rumpus, and pet areas. You love your dog, but buyers don’t want so smell the wet Retriever. If your place smells off, expect them to be off it too.

Set the Mood

You’ve nailed the look and the scent. Now let’s set the mood. Lighting, music, temperature — the trifecta of comfort.

Play soft ambient music — nobody’s playlist, but nobody’s offended. It creates a vibe without being distracting. Use lighting strategically: open curtains to flood living spaces with daylight. Use lamps to cosy up the reading nook or study. Bright, sterile lights feel harsh; dim corners feel dodgy. Think mood. Think comfort.

Winter? Light the fire or run the heater well in advance. Summer? Cool it down, throw open the windows, and let the breeze in. Comfort is key.

Game On

Now imagine a buyer walks in. No trip hazards. No overpowering pet smells. No grime. Instead, they’re greeted by warm light, a clean home, fresh coffee, subtle music, and a friendly smile. They feel at home. That emotional connection is gold — it removes barriers and opens wallets.

At the start, I said these little touches could save you thousands. Here’s why: the better your property presents, the more buyers you attract. More buyers = more competition = stronger offers. Simple math.

Should I Call You Tomorrow?

Some of these tips might sound small, even trivial. But after selling hundreds of homes, I can often predict how a sale will go based on a buyer’s face the moment they walk through the door.

Sure, a hot market helps. But even in a strong market, bad presentation kills deals. The right presentation lets your agent focus on selling your home’s strengths, not apologising for its shortcomings.

I’ve seen buyers walk out — literally turn around and leave — because of smell, mess, or a poor vibe. That could cost you $10,000 or more. And let’s be honest: you’d put the toilet seat down for ten grand, wouldn’t you?