Selling a property doesn’t depend only on the price or the location. The first impression is key for a buyer to become interested, make an offer, and speed up the whole process. Preparing the home properly can reduce the time it takes to sell and increase its perceived value.

Below, I explain the essential steps to make your property stand out from the very first moment.

1. Depersonalize the space

Buyers need to imagine themselves living there, and that’s difficult when they see family photos or highly personal decorations.
✔ Put away photos, keepsakes, fridge magnets, and very specific items.
✔ Keep the décor neutral to appeal to more types of buyers.

2. Tidy up and deep clean

A clean home conveys calmness and care, which builds trust.
✔ Clean windows, woodwork, tiles, and textiles.
✔ Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms—they must be spotless.
✔ Minimize clutter: the clearer the space, the larger it appears.

3. Fix what’s necessary (even the small things)

Small defects can give a sense of neglect.
✔ Replace bulbs, fix doors that don’t close properly, dripping taps, or jammed blinds.
✔ If walls are scuffed or worn, a fresh coat of neutral paint can transform the space.

4. Improve the lighting

A bright home is always better received.
✔ Open curtains and blinds to maximize natural light.
✔ Add lamps in dark corners.
✔ Use warm white LED bulbs.

5. Neutralize odors and ventilate well

A home that smells pleasant feels more cared for.
✔ Air out the property before each visit.
✔ Avoid overly strong air fresheners.
✔ Soft, neutral scents work best.

6. Optimize furniture layout

Sometimes furniture blocks the flow of the space or makes it feel smaller.
✔ Remove large or unnecessary pieces.
✔ Rearrange furniture to make the space easy to walk through and visually open.
✔ The goal is for each room to “breathe.”

7. Go for home staging

This is a very effective technique to speed up the sale and improve price perception.
It includes:
✔ New textiles (cushions, throws, curtains)
✔ Simple decorative details
✔ Green plants to add life
✔ Minimal tableware or kitchen accessories

It doesn’t require a large investment and makes a noticeable difference.

At Dumoulin Properties, we offer this complete home-preparation service for the seller’s convenience. We take care of getting your property ready to welcome buyers and make the best impression, saving you time and effort.

8. Take care of the façade and exterior

The first impression begins before entering.
✔ Check the paint on the door and entrance area.
✔ Keep balconies or terraces tidy with a touch of décor.
✔ If there is a garden, maintain it clean and trimmed.

9. Professional photography

If the property is already prepared, the photos must reflect that.
✔ Use good lighting.
✔ Avoid crooked angles.
✔ Highlight the best areas: living room, kitchen, main bedroom, and outdoor spaces.

Well-taken photos significantly increase online interest.

10. Create a pleasant experience during viewings

The goal is for buyers to feel comfortable.
✔ Keep the home at a pleasant temperature.
✔ Ensure there are no noises or distractions.
✔ Let visitors explore at their own pace.

✨ Conclusion

Preparing a property to sell faster doesn’t require major expenses, but it does require a clear strategy: showcasing the home in its best possible version. With order, light, neutrality, and small but well-chosen details, you can shorten the selling time and increase its perceived value.

And if you want to relax and leave everything in expert hands, Dumoulin Properties takes care of preparing your property so it's ready to sell, looking after every detail for you.