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

Maximising Your Sale Price: Essential Tips for Selling Property in Whakatāne

When you are ready for selling property in Whakatāne, Ōhope, Coastlands, or Edgecumbe, a positive first impression is everything. Our extensive experience in the Whakatāne real estate market consistently proves that a beautifully presented home sells faster and, critically, achieves a higher price.

The goal is to invest smart, not necessarily big. Follow our expert advice to enhance your property’s appeal and maximise its value with minimal cost.

The Buyer’s Eye Test: Making the First Impression Count

Take a moment to step outside your property and view it through the eyes of a potential buyer. This simple exercise helps you spot the small details you might overlook.

Outside Appeal: Kerb-side Confidence

The exterior appeal, or ‘kerb appeal,’ is vital for drawing buyers in and is crucial for showcasing your home in the Whakatāne property market.

• Exterior Wash-Down: A soft house wash can do wonders to lift tired paintwork and siding. Don’t forget to clean the details—fences, decks, paths, and gates—especially important for coastal properties in Ōhope or lifestyle blocks near Edgecumbe.
• Maximise Natural Light: Sunlight is one of the most universally sought-after features. Look for opportunities to prune trees or shrubs that might be blocking light from entering the home. More light equals more welcoming energy.
• Tidy Landscaping: Keeping the lawn freshly mown with crisp, straight edging is easy and inexpensive. Remove all garden rubbish, old piles of materials, or unused items from the garden, garage, and sheds. Buyers want to see usable space, not storage problems.
• Welcoming Touches: A few strategically placed pot plants near the entrance can instantly add colour and a welcoming feel. The best part? You can take these with you when you move!
• Pool Perfection: If you have a swimming pool (common in areas like Coastlands), ensure the water is crystal clear, tiles are clean, and all pool equipment is neatly stored out of sight.

Inside Appeal: Declutter, Shine, and Warmth

Once the buyers are through the door, the focus shifts to creating a spacious, clean, and inviting environment.

Decluttering and Space

Space is paramount to prospective buyers. The goal here is to make every room feel as large as possible.

• Aggressive Decluttering: This is the most effective and cheapest tool you have. Remove personal clutter, excess furniture, and non-essential items. Pack them away—it makes the home look bigger and gives you a head start on packing.
• Sparkling Clean: A proper spring clean makes a huge difference. Pay attention to carpets (especially if you have pets), windows, and surfaces. When windows sparkle, the entire home feels more vital and bright.
• Flowers and Temperature: Fresh flowers are a lovely, welcoming touch. During winter, ensure the fire or heating is on to create a warm, cosy atmosphere. In summer, open windows and doors to let the air and sunshine stream through.

High-Impact, Low-Cost Upgrades

Focus on areas that yield the biggest return for the smallest investment.

• Kitchen & Bathroom Focus: These are the two rooms buyers focus on most. In the bathroom, treat any mould or mildew with a commercial cleaner. If the lino is tired, replace it with a neutral pattern—but talk to your agent first about balancing cost versus return.
• Kitchen Refresh: Instead of a full renovation, consider replacing dated cupboard doors (using the old ones as templates) or updating the benchtop if your budget allows. These are substantial purchases but, when done right, can significantly boost the price.
• Touch-up Paint: If the walls look scuffed or tired, a fresh coat of neutral paint can offer big dividends. Ensure the work is tidy; rough paint edges or drips send negative signals about maintenance to buyers looking at homes for sale in Whakatāne.

Your Pre-Sale Checklist for Trust and Authority (E-E-A-T)

To ensure a smooth sale, focus on these essential documents:

• Code Compliance Certificate (CCC): If you’ve undertaken any major building work, ensure you have the final CCC from the local council.
• Land Information Memorandum (LIM): It’s always advisable to obtain a recent LIM report. This document gives buyers confidence and certainty regarding local authority compliance, helping secure a faster, unconditional offer.
• Chattels List: Prepare a clear, precise list of everything that is staying (e.g., dishwashers, light fittings). If you are taking anything with you (like that unique pendant light), ensure it is specifically noted as an ‘exclusion’ on the contract to avoid any disputes later on.

Our experienced Ray White salespeople are local experts and happy to share more personalised tips on getting your specific home ready to shine in the Whakatāne property market, in any season. Call us today!