“You never get a second chance to make a first impression”

Pre-Sale Preparation: Maximising the Value of Your Mount Maunganui Real Estate

How a Well-Presented Home Sells Faster in the Mount Maunganui Property Market

In the competitive Mount Maunganui property market, first impressions are everything. Our extensive experience constantly shows that a well-presented home sells more quickly and, crucially, commands a higher price. A home that shows well, sells well.

The goal in preparing your property is simple: spend as little money as possible to dramatically enhance its visual and emotional appeal. Before you begin, try the ultimate buyer’s test: step outside, close your eyes, and then walk through your property as if you were a buyer seeing it for the very first time.

Important Checks Before Listing

• Council Compliance: If you have undertaken major building work, ensure you have a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) from the local council. It is also highly advisable to obtain a LIM (Land Information Memorandum) on your property.
• Chattels List: Make a clear list of all items (chattels) that are included in the sale. Anything you plan to take with you must be explicitly noted on the contract as an ‘exclusion’ to prevent misunderstandings when selling property in Papamoa.

Enhancing Your Homes for Sale in Mount Maunganui: Outside Appeal

The exterior sets the scene. A positive welcome starts at the fence and gate.

• Exterior House Wash: An inexpensive soft wash can instantly refresh paintwork, fencing, paths, and decks. Avoid aggressive water blasting unless your paint is robust.
• Maximise Sunlight: Natural light is a universal requirement for buyers. Consider pruning trees or shrubs to allow more light into your home and garden, adding a real bonus to your Mount Maunganui real estate.
• Garden Tidy: Keep the lawn mown weekly with straight, crisp edging. Remove unsightly garden rubbish, old sheds, or garage piles—things we stop ‘seeing’ but buyers notice instantly.
• A Welcoming Entrance: Place a few pot plants near the entrance for a pop of colour. It makes the home feel more welcoming, and you can take the plants with you when you move!
• Pool Maintenance: If you have a pool, ensure the water is sparkling clean, free of leaves, and all pool equipment is neatly stored away.
• Pets: We cherish our pets, but during open homes, they should be discreetly kept out of the way. Some buyers are fearful or allergic, and a loose pet can deter someone from viewing properly.

Boosting Your Inside Appeal

Inside, focus on creating a bright, spacious, and inviting environment.

Space, Cleanliness, and Ambiance

• Decluttering and Space: Space sells. ‘Create’ a feeling of space by removing clutter, storing non-essential items, and even strategically rearranging furniture to make every room feel larger.
• The Spring Clean: A deep clean makes an enormous difference. Clean windows boost vitality and life inside your home. Carpet cleaning, especially if you have pets, can significantly improve the look and smell of your home.
• Warmth and Welcome: Use fresh flowers for a lovely touch and scent. In summer, throw open windows and doors to let the sun and air in. In winter, ensure the heating or fireplace is going to make the home cosy and welcoming.

High-Impact, Low-Cost Upgrades

• Spruce Up Paintwork: Fresh paint can be a fantastic investment. However, it must be done well. Rough edges or paint smears on windows send negative signals to prospective buyers.
• Kitchen & Bathroom Focus: These rooms offer the highest return on investment.
  • Kitchens: If the budget allows, replacing cabinet doors (using the existing ones as templates) and potentially the benchtop can transform the heart of your home.
  • Bathrooms/Laundry: Use a commercial mildew remover to refresh naturally damp areas. If linoleum needs replacing, choose a relatively neutral pattern.

Want more expert tips on getting your property ready for market? Speak to our experienced Ray White salespeople for advice tailored to selling property in The Mount and your specific home’s needs, in any season!