Getting Your House Ready For Sale NZ
Selling your home is a significant milestone, and making the right preparations can have a huge impact on your sale price, the speed of the sale, and the overall experience. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or moving to a new city, getting your house ready for sale in New Zealand requires careful planning and strategic improvements. From decluttering and home staging to minor repairs and legal requirements, this guide will take you through everything you need to know to prepare your Christchurch property for the market. With a competitive real estate landscape, ensuring your home stands out can make all the difference in attracting buyers and securing the best possible offer. In this blog, we’ll explore practical steps to help you present your home at its best. Whether you’re selling in Christchurch’s sought-after suburbs like Merivale, St Albans, or Cashmere, or listing a lifestyle property on the outskirts of the city, these insights will help maximise your property’s value.
Decluttering and Depersonalising Your Home
One of the most effective ways to prepare your house for sale in New Zealand is to declutter and depersonalise your space. Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, and a clutter-free, neutral environment makes this much easier. A well-organised, tidy home not only looks more spacious but also allows buyers to focus on the property’s best features rather than being distracted by personal items.
Why Decluttering Matters
Clutter can make a home feel cramped, disorganised, and unappealing. By removing unnecessary items, you create an inviting atmosphere that highlights the space, functionality, and potential of your property. Decluttering also makes moving easier, as you’ll have fewer belongings to pack and transport.
How to Declutter Effectively
- Start with one room at a time: Tackle decluttering in manageable sections rather than trying to do everything at once.
- Use the “keep, donate, discard” method: Sort items into three categories—things you’ll take to your new home, items to donate or sell, and things to throw away.
- Minimise furniture: Consider removing oversized or excess furniture to make rooms feel more open and spacious.
- Clear benchtops and surfaces: In kitchens and bathrooms, keep only essential items visible to create a clean and polished look.
- Organise storage spaces: Buyers will open cupboards and wardrobes, so keep them tidy to showcase ample storage.
Depersonalising Your Home
Depersonalisation is just as important as decluttering. Buyers need to imagine themselves living in the home, which can be difficult if it's filled with personal photos, memorabilia, and unique decor.
Steps to Depersonalise Your Home
- Remove personal photos: Family pictures and personalised decorations should be replaced with neutral artwork or simple decor.
- Neutralise colour schemes: If your home has bold or unique colour choices, consider repainting walls in neutral tones like white, beige, or light grey.
- Store away personal collections: Items such as trophies, certificates, and collectibles should be packed away.
- Minimise themed decor: If your home has a strong aesthetic (e.g., a rustic country theme or ultra-modern industrial look), tone it down to appeal to a wider range of buyers.
Christchurch-Specific Decluttering Tips
Christchurch’s real estate market is competitive, and buyers often look for homes that feel fresh, clean, and move-in ready. Here are some localised tips:
- Consider seasonal decluttering: If selling in winter, create a warm and inviting atmosphere with cosy furnishings. In summer, focus on bright, airy spaces.
- Garage and outdoor spaces matter: Many Christchurch buyers value good storage and outdoor entertaining areas, so ensure these spaces are neat and uncluttered.
- Earthquake repairs and renovations: If your home has undergone earthquake-related repairs, keep documentation tidy and accessible for buyer reassurance.
Decluttering and depersonalising your home is an essential first step in preparing for sale. It sets the stage for the next phase—enhancing your home’s presentation through deep cleaning and minor repairs.
Deep Cleaning and Minor Repairs
Once you’ve decluttered and depersonalised your home, the next crucial step in getting your house ready for sale in New Zealand is deep cleaning and making minor repairs. A spotless, well-maintained home gives buyers confidence that the property has been well cared for, increasing its appeal and potential value.
Why Deep Cleaning is Essential
First impressions are everything in real estate. A clean home feels more inviting, spacious, and move-in ready. Buyers will notice dust, grime, and odours, so ensuring every area is spotless can significantly impact their perception of your home. Even a well-staged house can be overshadowed by dirt or unpleasant smells.
Checklist for a Deep Clean
To make sure no area is overlooked, follow this comprehensive deep-cleaning checklist:
- Windows and Glass Surfaces: Clean windows inside and out to maximise natural light. Remove streaks from mirrors and glass doors.
- Floors and Carpets: Vacuum and mop all flooring. Consider professional carpet cleaning to remove deep stains and odours.
- Kitchen: Scrub benchtops, wipe down cabinets, degrease rangehoods, and deep clean ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers.
- Bathrooms: Remove mould and soap scum from tiles, polish taps and shower doors, and ensure the toilet is spotless.
- Walls and Skirting Boards: Wipe down walls to remove marks and scuffs. Dust and clean skirting boards.
- Doors and Handles: Clean door handles and light switches to remove fingerprints and grime.
- Bedrooms and Living Areas: Dust furniture, vacuum under beds, and freshen up soft furnishings like curtains and cushions.
- Outdoor Areas: Sweep decks, wash exterior walls, and ensure pathways are free of debris.
Addressing Minor Repairs
Small issues can give buyers the impression that the home requires significant maintenance, which may affect their willingness to pay the full asking price. Handling minor repairs ensures your home presents as well-maintained and move-in ready.
Common Repairs to Tackle
- Fix Leaky Taps: Dripping taps can be a red flag to buyers concerned about plumbing issues.
- Patch Up Wall Damage: Fill in holes and cracks in walls, then repaint for a seamless finish.
- Repair Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows open and close smoothly. Fix squeaky hinges and replace any broken latches.
- Replace Worn Sealant: Reapply silicone around sinks, bathtubs, and showers if it’s cracked or mouldy.
- Touch Up Paint: A fresh coat of neutral-coloured paint can make rooms look clean and modern.
- Check Light Fixtures: Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean light fittings to ensure bright, even lighting.
Christchurch-Specific Considerations
For homeowners in Christchurch, there are additional maintenance and repair factors to consider:
- Earthquake Repairs: Ensure any earthquake-related repairs have been completed and documented. Many buyers request EQC (Earthquake Commission) documentation before making an offer.
- Guttering and Drainage: Christchurch’s weather can be unpredictable, so clear gutters and check drainage systems to prevent water damage.
- Outdoor Appeal: Buyers in Christchurch appreciate well-maintained outdoor spaces, so ensure your garden, patio, and fencing are in good condition.
By deep cleaning and handling minor repairs, you enhance your home's presentation and create a positive first impression for potential buyers. The next step is enhancing your home’s street appeal to attract more interest from passers-by and online viewers.
Enhancing Street Appeal
First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see—both online and in person. A well-presented façade can make your property stand out from the competition and entice buyers to explore further. In Christchurch, where property aesthetics and kerb appeal play a significant role in attracting buyers, investing in your home’s exterior presentation is essential.
Why Street Appeal is Important
Street appeal, also known as kerb appeal, influences how buyers perceive the property before they even step inside. A home that looks well-maintained and inviting from the outside suggests to buyers that the interior will be just as appealing. It can also contribute to a higher sale price and a quicker sale, as homes with strong street appeal tend to generate more interest.
Simple Ways to Improve Your Home’s Exterior
Boosting your home’s street appeal doesn’t have to be expensive. A few strategic improvements can make a big impact:
1. Refresh the Front Door and Entrance
- Repaint or Replace the Front Door: A fresh coat of paint in a modern, neutral, or bold (but tasteful) colour can make your entrance stand out.
- Upgrade the Door Hardware: Replacing old or tarnished handles, knockers, and house numbers adds a fresh touch.
- Ensure Good Lighting: Well-lit entrances feel welcoming and safe. Consider adding stylish outdoor lighting.
- Add a Statement Piece: A potted plant, welcome mat, or decorative bench can make the entrance feel more inviting.
2. Tidy Up the Garden and Lawn
- Mow the Lawn Regularly: A well-manicured lawn instantly improves street appeal.
- Weed and Mulch: Remove weeds, trim overgrown bushes, and apply fresh mulch to garden beds for a neat appearance.
- Plant Low-Maintenance Flowers: Brighten up the front yard with easy-care flowers such as lavender, daisies, or native NZ plants.
- Trim Trees and Hedges: Overgrown greenery can make a home feel unkempt. Keeping it trimmed adds to a polished look.
3. Clean and Maintain Exterior Surfaces
- Wash the Exterior: Pressure-wash walls, fences, and pathways to remove dirt and mould.
- Clean the Windows: Sparkling windows give a fresh and well-maintained impression.
- Fix or Paint Fences: A freshly painted or well-maintained fence adds a sense of privacy and structure.
- Repair Driveways and Paths: Cracked concrete or uneven paving can be a turn-off for buyers.
Christchurch-Specific Street Appeal Tips
Homes in Christchurch vary in architectural style, from character villas in Merivale to modern builds in Wigram. Here’s how to enhance street appeal with Christchurch buyers in mind:
- Choose Weather-Resistant Plants: Consider hardy plants like flax, hebes, or corokias that thrive in Canterbury’s climate.
- Check for Earthquake Repairs: Ensure visible cracks in driveways, paths, or exterior walls have been repaired.
- Adapt to the Season: If selling in winter, add warm lighting and hardy plants. In summer, keep lawns lush and gardens vibrant.
By making simple yet effective changes, you can significantly boost your home’s street appeal and attract more buyers. Next, we’ll look at the benefits of home staging and how to present your property in the best possible light.
Home Staging and Presentation
Once you've enhanced your home’s street appeal, the next crucial step is home staging and interior presentation. Proper staging can make your property feel more inviting, highlight its best features, and help buyers emotionally connect with the space. In New Zealand, particularly in Christchurch’s competitive market, well-staged homes tend to sell faster and for higher prices.
What is Home Staging?
Home staging involves arranging furniture, decor, and lighting to maximise the appeal of your property. Whether you choose to work with a professional home stager or do it yourself, staging helps create a neutral, stylish environment that allows buyers to picture themselves living in the space.
Key Benefits of Home Staging
- Increases Buyer Interest: Staged homes attract more attention in listing photos and open homes.
- Maximises Space: Thoughtful furniture placement can make rooms feel larger and more functional.
- Enhances Emotional Connection: Buyers are more likely to develop an attachment to a home that feels warm and welcoming.
- Helps Justify Price: A well-presented home suggests value and reduces the likelihood of low-ball offers.
DIY Home Staging Tips
1. Arrange Furniture to Maximise Space
- Create Open Flow: Arrange furniture to allow easy movement between rooms.
- Use the Right Scale: Avoid oversized furniture that makes rooms feel cramped.
- Highlight Key Features: Position furniture to draw attention to fireplaces, large windows, or architectural details.
2. Optimise Lighting
- Let in Natural Light: Open curtains and clean windows to brighten spaces.
- Use Layered Lighting: Combine ambient (overhead), task (lamps), and accent (wall lights) lighting.
- Update Light Fixtures: Modern light fittings can instantly refresh a home’s interior.
3. Use Neutral and Stylish Decor
- Keep Colours Neutral: White, beige, and grey walls appeal to a wider range of buyers.
- Incorporate Textures: Use throws, cushions, and rugs to add warmth.
- Add Greenery: Houseplants or fresh flowers bring life to a space.
4. Set the Scene in Key Rooms
Living Room
- Arrange seating to create a cosy and conversational atmosphere.
- Add a stylish coffee table book or a bowl of fresh fruit.
Kitchen
- Keep benchtops clutter-free with only a few decorative items (e.g., a fruit bowl or a vase of fresh flowers).
- Ensure all surfaces are spotless and appliances gleam.
Bedrooms
- Use fresh, neutral bedding with decorative pillows.
- Ensure wardrobes are half-empty to showcase storage space.
Bathrooms
- Display fresh towels, a scented candle, and stylish soap dispensers.
- Remove personal items to create a spa-like feel.
Christchurch-Specific Staging Tips
- Adapt to the Season: In winter, add warm throws and rugs; in summer, use fresh, airy decor.
- Highlight Outdoor Living: If your property has a deck or patio, stage it with outdoor furniture to showcase Christchurch’s lifestyle appeal.
- Consider Earthquake Repairs: If your home has visible quake-related repairs, ensure they are seamlessly integrated into the staging.
Proper home staging can make your property feel more desirable and encourage stronger offers. Now, let’s explore how to market your home effectively to attract the right buyers.
Marketing Your Home for Sale
Once your home is staged and ready to impress, the next step is ensuring it reaches the right buyers. Effective marketing can significantly impact the speed of your sale and the final selling price. In the Christchurch property market, where buyer demand fluctuates, a well-executed marketing strategy can set your home apart from the competition.
Why Marketing Matters
With most buyers beginning their property search online, high-quality marketing materials and targeted advertising are crucial for attracting interest. A well-marketed home generates more enquiries, leading to increased competition and better offers.
Essential Marketing Strategies
1. Professional Photography and Videography
- High-quality images: Professional photography is essential to capture your home in its best light.
- Drone footage: Aerial photography showcases large sections, unique views, and lifestyle properties.
- Video tours: A short walkthrough video helps remote buyers visualise the space before visiting.
2. Online Property Listings
- Real Estate Websites: Listing on platforms such as Trade Me Property, realestate.co.nz, and Harcourts’ website ensures maximum exposure.
- SEO-Optimised Descriptions: Well-written property descriptions using keywords like “modern family home in Christchurch” help attract more online searches.
- Clear and Engaging Copy: Descriptions should highlight key features, recent renovations, and lifestyle benefits.
3. Social Media Marketing
- Facebook and Instagram Ads: Targeted campaigns reach buyers based on location, interests, and search behaviour.
- Engaging Posts: Regular updates with stunning photos, property videos, and open home reminders increase visibility.
- Local Community Groups: Posting in Christchurch-specific real estate groups can generate additional interest.
4. Print Advertising and Signage
- Professional Signboards: A well-designed “For Sale” sign with high-quality images can attract local buyers.
- Property Brochures: Professionally printed flyers provide a lasting impression after viewings.
- Local Newspapers: Though digital is dominant, some buyers still check print listings.
5. Database Marketing and Email Campaigns
- Targeted Buyer Databases: Agents often have lists of active buyers looking for homes like yours.
- Email Newsletters: Sending listings to subscribed buyers can generate early interest.
- Exclusive Pre-Market Previews: Showcasing your property to select buyers before it officially hits the market can create a sense of urgency.
Christchurch-Specific Marketing Considerations
- Highlight School Zones: Many buyers prioritise properties in top Christchurch school zones like Christchurch Boys’ and Girls’ High.
- Promote Earthquake Strengthening: If your home has been strengthened or has post-quake upgrades, include this in marketing materials.
- Target Relocating Buyers: Christchurch attracts buyers from other regions, so online visibility is crucial.
Strategic marketing ensures your home reaches the right buyers and maximises interest.
Why Choose Hayden Roulston as Your Real Estate Agent?
Selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make, and having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. If you’re looking for a trusted, results-driven real estate agent in Christchurch, Hayden Roulston is the expert you need.
What Sets Hayden Roulston Apart?
1. Proven Track Record of Success
- Over 50 properties sold in just 2.5 years, showcasing a consistent ability to achieve outstanding results.
- Deep understanding of Christchurch’s real estate market, from high-demand suburbs like Merivale and Cashmere to emerging areas.
2. Personalised Service and Expert Guidance
- Hayden takes a hands-on approach, ensuring each client receives tailored advice and strategies.
- Comprehensive marketing plans designed to maximise exposure and attract serious buyers.
3. Competitive Commission and Free Property Appraisals
- Commission structure: $550 + 3.95% up to $400,000, and 2% thereafter (plus GST), offering exceptional value for premium service.
- Free, no-obligation property appraisals: Get an expert assessment of your home’s market value before making any decisions.
4. Strong Network and Buyer Database
- Access to a vast network of buyers, including major investors and off-market opportunities.
- Connections with top photographers, stagers, and marketing specialists to showcase your home at its best.
5. A Performance-Driven Approach
- As an Olympic medalist, Hayden applies the same discipline and determination to real estate as he did to professional cycling.
- His results-driven mindset ensures every property is marketed and negotiated to achieve the highest possible price.
Let’s Achieve Your Real Estate Goals
Whether you’re selling your home or looking to buy, Hayden Roulston is committed to guiding you through every step of the process with expert advice and unmatched dedication.
For a personalised consultation, contact Hayden today:
- Phone: +64 21 721 699
- Email: hayden.roulston@harcourtsgold.co.nz
- Office: 471 Papanui Road, Papanui, Christchurch
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I start preparing my house for sale in New Zealand?
Start by decluttering, depersonalising, and deep cleaning your home. Make any necessary repairs, improve street appeal, and consider staging the interior to attract buyers.
2. Do I need to hire a professional home stager?
While not essential, professional home staging can help your property stand out and appeal to more buyers. If you prefer to stage it yourself, focus on neutral decor, lighting, and furniture arrangement.
3. What are the best ways to market my home for sale?
Effective marketing includes professional photography, online listings, social media promotion, and print advertising. Working with an experienced agent like Hayden Roulston ensures your home gets maximum exposure.
4. How important is street appeal when selling a home?
Street appeal is crucial as it forms the first impression for potential buyers. A well-maintained exterior, tidy garden, and inviting entrance can significantly impact buyer interest.
5. Should I sell my home via auction, tender, or private sale?
The best method depends on your property and market conditions. Auctions can drive competition, tenders allow for higher offers, and private sales offer flexibility. Hayden Roulston can guide you on the best approach for your situation.
6. What should I do before an open home?
Ensure your home is clean, well-lit, and free of personal clutter. Set a comfortable temperature, add fresh flowers, and secure valuables. Leaving the property during viewings allows buyers to explore freely.
7. How do I evaluate an offer on my property?
Consider not just the price but also the deposit amount, conditions (such as finance or building inspections), and settlement date. Your real estate agent will help negotiate the best deal.
8. How long does it take to sell a house in Christchurch?
Market conditions, location, and property presentation all impact selling time. Well-priced and well-marketed homes can sell within a few weeks, while others may take longer depending on buyer demand.
9. Do I need to provide earthquake documentation when selling in Christchurch?
Yes, buyers often request EQC (Earthquake Commission) documentation and insurance details to understand any past repairs or claims related to the property.
10. How can Hayden Roulston help me sell my home?
As a leading real estate agent in Christchurch, Hayden provides expert market insights, personalised service, and top-tier marketing strategies to help you achieve the best possible sale outcome.