28/10/2026
Before I even think about photos or inspections, I walk every seller through the same preparation strategy.
It’s not a major renovation and it’s not thousands spent on upgrades. It’s knowing what to take out so your home photographs bigger, feels move-in ready, and gives buyers room to picture their own life in it.
Here’s what comes out first.
Family photos. The second buyers see someone else’s family on the wall, they stop imagining their own.
Half your wardrobe. A packed wardrobe whispers “not enough storage.” Box up about 40% and store it offsite.
Benchtop clutter. Clear the kitchen and bathroom benchtops. Empty surfaces make every room look bigger.
Extra furniture. That spare armchair or oversized sofa shrinks the room. When in doubt, take a piece out.
Fridge door clutter. Magnets, kids’ artwork, calendars. Clear it completely before photos.
Bold or personal decor. Very specific taste distracts buyers from the actual home.
Pet gear. Bowls, beds, crates, litter trays. Not every buyer is a pet lover, and smells can make or break an inspection.
Personal bathroom items. Shampoo bottles lined up in the shower, toothbrushes on the vanity, razors, open bottles. Tuck it all out of sight before every inspection.
Rugs that are the wrong size for the room.
Valuables and medications. Always lock away personal items, medications and documents before inspections.
Getting your home ready costs almost nothing, but it changes how buyers feel the moment they walk through the door.
