Spring is here, and despite a cautious mood in some markets, many are expecting a strong spring selling season.

So, if you've decided to take the big step of selling your property this spring, what can you do to prepare your property for sale - ensuring it is presented in its best light, and helping you achieve the maximum price.

Tidy the house

• Declutter shelves and cupboards.
• Throw out or give away anything you don't use.
• Remove as much from the house as you can.
• Consider hiring storage if you don't have anywhere to keep surplus items.
• It's easier to show the home's form and flow if it's streamlined and uncluttered.

Clean the house

• Clean glass doors and windows. The crisp spring sunshine will illuminate your house in the best light if glass windows and doors are sparkling clean.
• Dust blinds, or even have them professionally cleaned.
• Have carpets steamcleaned.
• Wipe down cupboard fronts.
• Clean fireplaces.
• Dust the house relentlessly!

Finish repairs

• Take a walk around the home and see if anything needs repairing.
• Consider if the house needs painting, even if only in some sections. Is the paint peeling, are cracks appearing? Dirty walls can be miraculously cleaned with a coat of paint. 
• Does timber need staining or oiling?
• Do windows need repairing?

Prepare the garden

• Rake up dead leaves.
• Remove weeds.
• Prune dead winter growth, but be careful not to remove new buds.
• Fertilise any lawn and garden beds.
• Keep the garden hydrated so it is flourishing by the time you are opening your home for inspections.
• Lay mulch to provide a consistent texture through your garden, and to hide empty or unkempt patches.

Styling the house

• Consider having your house professionally styled. Many homes on the market are styled these days; you don't want yours to look shabby in comparison.
• Refer to magazine and style websites to see if you can incorporate some of the latest looks into your home.
• Do you want to leave a few carefully chosen personal items? If so, which ones?
• Remove worn carpets or rugs.
• Straighten wall hangings.
• If your kitchen or bathroom (or both!) are very dated, consider a mini-makeover, such as new benchtops, new taps, or even something as simple a new shower curtain!

Preparing for open house inspections

• Consider hiring furniture and home accessories if yours are looking tired.
• Take a last minute walk around the home before you leave. Has anything been left behind? Does anything stand out?
• Some owners and agents like to burn oil to create a pleasant aroma and calm mood.
• If appropriate, turn on some music. Quiet background music is the most appropriate choice here.

Lastly, get a second opinion

• Once you think the home is ready, invite a trusted and knowledgeable friend around. Ask their opinion and seek advice.

Read more about home maintenance:

Gardens add value to your home

How to transform unused spaces in your garden   

Is there a right season to sell?