If you have decided to sell your home, one question is inevitable: how to get the best possible price? The answer lies not only in the location or the current state of the real estate market but also in how you present your home. A small investment in the right place can mean thousands of euros more in the final price.

We highlight the best and practical ways to prepare your home for sale and increase its value both emotionally and financially.

1. First impressions matter – take care of the facade and entrance

The buyer decides within the first 10 seconds whether they see this home as their future. Therefore, tidy up the house facade, paint the front door, mow the lawn, and add details that create a warm feeling – such as flower boxes, clean windows, and a neat staircase or garden.

Tip: a small terrace or seating area in front of the house can add a sense of homeliness and a "wow" effect that many subconsciously seek.

2. Clean and tidy home = higher value

This may seem simple, but deep cleaning is one of the most important steps. Remove dust, dirt, signs of water damage, and unpleasant odors. When the buyer steps into a fresh, clean, and well-smelling home, they perceive the value as much higher.

Pro tip: use neutral scents – baked bread, coffee, or a light citrus scent works wonders on the subconscious.

3. Depersonalize, but do not lose coziness

The buyer must be able to imagine living in that space. Remove personal photos, strong character decor elements, or very specific tastes (e.g., bright wall colors, strong patterns). At the same time, add softness – a neutral rug, a throw on the sofa, or stylish plant decor can help the space feel alive.

4. Small repairs = big return

You don’t need to do a complete renovation, but small, thoughtful jobs can significantly affect the impression and price. For example:

• Fix leaking faucets, creaking doors, and broken switches

• Repaint dirty walls or dark corners

• Refresh the kitchen or bathroom look – change cabinet knobs, lights, or noticeably outdated details

These little things create a feeling that the home is well-maintained and loved – and that matters more than a few square meters.

5. Light and space – let the home be bright

Good lighting can instantly make a room feel more spacious. Open the curtains, turn on all the lights, and add some soft-lit floor lamps as needed. If the home feels spacious, bright, and airy, it increases emotional value significantly.

6. Pay attention to scents and sounds

Make it quiet: close windows to street noise, silence buzzing appliances. At the same time, create an atmosphere – soft background music, a warm scent, or pleasant lighting can make the buyer feel: "I could live here."

7. Professional photos and home staging

Once the home is ready, don’t skimp on the presentation. Professional photos and home staging will help you create the ideal image. A good picture sells – and often faster too. Think of it as an investment, not an expense.

8. Be honest, but highlight the strengths

If the home has shortcomings, do not hide them, but balance them with strong points. Do you have a spacious balcony? A nature-friendly location? Good layout? Highlight these and let the buyer understand that they have an opportunity here.

In conclusion: selling starts with perception, value comes from preparation

Selling a home is not just putting up a listing – it is marketing, presentation, and managing emotions. If you take the time and effort to prepare the home, you won’t just sell it faster, but you’ll get a better price and avoid price pressure.

So, before you post the listing – prepare the home so that the buyer falls in love at first sight.