VENDOR ADVOCACY TIP OF THE MONTH
The first two weeks of a campaign set the ceiling for your result. Before styling, photos and that first open, get the home truly sale-ready. Buyers form an opinion within seconds and most will see your property online first; great presentation widens the buyer pool, shortens days on market and creates price tension you can’t manufacture later.
What to do in the prep window (ideally 10–14 days)
- Fix the fundamentals: leaks, cracked tiles, sticky doors, blown globes, silicon and grout, wobbly taps, scuffed paint at eye level, fencing and gate latches.
- Light and flow: trim greenery blocking windows, clean windows inside and out, replace heavy curtains where practical, rearrange furniture to open walkways.
- Street appeal: pressure-wash paths, mulch and edge gardens, fresh letterbox/house numbers, touch up the front door and hardware, clear bins and visual clutter.
- Clean and declutter: remove 30–40% of visible items, thin wardrobes and cupboards, deep clean kitchens and bathrooms, neutralise odours, store oversized pieces off-site.
- Minor cosmetic lifts that punch above their weight: paint high-traffic areas, replace tired tapware and cabinet handles, update light shades, fresh linens and towels.
- Compliance and paperwork ready: smoke alarms checked, pool/spa barriers where relevant, appliance manuals, recent bills, permits and warranties on hand for your Section 32.
- Plan the shoot: book photos for the best natural light, style after repairs (not before), and have lawns edged and cars moved. Great images and copy start with great prep.
Common mistakes to avoid
• Rushing to photos before repairs are done
• Relying on styling to hide defects buyers will notice at inspection
• Overcapitalising on big renovations when a tidy-up would do
• Ignoring smell, sound and small maintenance that signal “work” to buyers
How we help
We start with a fast prep audit, prioritise works by impact and cost, line up trades and timing, then brief your stylist and photographer so every dollar shows up in the photos and at the first open. Done well, this stage pays for itself many times over by drawing more qualified buyers to your door and sharpening competition when it counts.