Want to sell in 2026? Here's what you need to do now!

Planning to move home in 2026?  It's not that far away and it will be here before we know it! 

We've put together an easy guide to the things that will help ensure you are prepared to sell, help get you market ready and take away some of the overwhelm! 

Getting your home market-ready now isn’t just about appearances—it’s a powerful strategy that elevates every part of the selling process.

By following our simple guide below to declutter, refresh, and highlight your home’s best features, you enhance the quality of your marketing from day one. Better presentation leads to stronger photos, more engaging online listings, and a polished first impression that captures buyers’ attention. And when interest rises, competition follows—ultimately helping you secure a higher sale price with fewer days on the market. 

PHASE 1. 

• Clear Skirting Boards
• De- Clutter
• De-Personalise

This is all about presentation, people need to see floor space to appreciate the size, they dont need to see you CD collection so lets box up what you don’t need everyday. Buyers are buying your home not your memories, so deep breath, and lets put away the certificates and rosettes from last years sports day. Remember this is just temporary. Once the Christmas decs are down, replace them in the loft with your clutter

PHASE 2.

• Simple Repairs
• New Paint/Touch Ups
• Define The Room

Let’s finish any odd jobs like the wonky curtain rail or box in the boiler, paint over bright walls with neutral tones and touch up wear and tear marks that litter most homes.

Regrout if it’s gone black and repair any broken lights or get the electrician in to get those broken spots working.

Always make a room a room, not a dumping ground, a bedroom needs a bed and a study needs a desk.

PHASE 3.

• Deep Clean
• Maximise Light
• Prepare for Staging

A deep clean will make your home sparkle and along with the minor repairs, gives an overall impression of a well-cared for home. Dust everything including picture rails and lights, get a window cleaner in, clean all light switches that are grubby.

Use the Black Friday/Jan sales to buy some plants / silk flowers if an area needs staging or definition. Replace all light bulbs that arent working!

PHASE 4. 

• Mow and Strim the Lawn
• Weed and Tidy
• Jet Wash Patio & Drive

First impressions matter. Think about placing some decorative trees either side of the front door and make sure the outside areas are clean and tidy. Hoover up all the leaves. Paint the front door if it’s needed, if not give the door and surround a deep clean.

And last but not least........

Call Sold.Buy.Simon, your Sanderstead, Warlingham and South Croydon property expert. For a proper, honest market appraisal and a strategy that will get you moved!

07930 882949

simon@soldbuysimon.co.uk