Selling Tips

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

Presentation is Everything: Prepping Your Ohope Real Estate for Sale

In the competitive Ohope property market, first impressions aren’t just important—they are the key to a quicker sale and a higher price. Our deep Experience at Ray White Ohope shows that a well-presented home—whether it’s a beach house in West End or a lifestyle block in Maraetotara—attracts more interest and achieves better results.

The goal is simple: spend minimal money for maximum aesthetic appeal.

Here is your straightforward New Zealand-English checklist for preparing your property for sale. Close your eyes and imagine: “I’m a buyer seeing this house for the first time!”

Essential Checks Before Listing

Before we officially launch your campaign for selling property in Wainui or Ohope, please address these fundamentals:

Council Compliance: If you have recently undertaken major building work, ensure you have obtained a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) from the local council. It is also advisable to obtain an updated LIM (Land Information Memorandum) on your property.
Chattels List: Make a clear, final list of all items (chattels) that will remain in the house (e.g., curtains, light fittings, appliances). Anything you intend to take with you must be explicitly noted on the contract as an ‘exclusion’.

Outside Appeal: Your Home’s Kerb-Side Charm

This is the first impression a buyer gets. You want them to feel welcomed and intrigued from the moment they arrive.

Area	Action Point	Why It Helps
Exterior Cleanliness	Have an exterior house wash. Use a soft wash (not harsh water blasting) on paintwork, and don’t forget the fence, gates, paths, and decks.	A clean exterior lifts the paint colour and sends a message that the home is well-maintained.
Maximise Sunlight	Sunlight is one of the most universal buyer requirements. Prune any overgrown trees or shrubs that block light from windows.	More natural light instantly makes rooms feel warmer, larger, and more vital.
Lawn & Gardens	Keep lawns mown weekly with crisp, straight edging. Get rid of all garden rubbish, old wood piles, or ‘stuff’ stored around sheds/garages.	This is an easy, inexpensive way to demonstrate pride in the property and make the section low-maintenance.
Entrance Accent	Place a few simple pot plants around the entrance.	They add a welcoming touch of colour and greenery, and you can take them with you when you move!
Pools (If Applicable)	If you have a swimming pool, ensure the water is sparkling, clear of leaves, and all equipment is neatly stored away.	A sparkling pool suggests a well-cared-for lifestyle feature, rather than a maintenance burden.
Pets	Keep all pets out of the way during open homes and viewings.	You may love your animals, but some people are afraid or allergic. Remove all pet items (beds, bowls) to depersonalise and eliminate odours.

Inside Appeal: Declutter, Define, & Delight

The interior needs to feel spacious, clean, and provide a neutral backdrop for the buyer’s imagination.

The Foundation: Cleanliness and Space

Deep Clean: A professional spring clean is transformative. Clean carpets, polish wooden floors, and ensure windows sparkle—this makes the whole home feel healthier and more inviting.
Maximum Space:Space is a key buyer need. Declutter aggressively! Box up items, rearrange furniture, and store non-essentials off-site. Your rooms should feel as large as possible.
Warmth & Freshness: Use fresh flowers for a lovely scent. In summer, open windows and doors to let the air and sun in. In winter, turn on the heater or light the fire to ensure the home is warm and welcoming upon entry.

High-Impact Areas: Kitchen, Bathroom & Laundry

Kitchen Refresh: Kitchens are incredibly important to all buyers. Instead of a costly full renovation, focus on high-impact, lower-cost changes:
- Spruce up existing cabinetry with new cupboard doors (using old ones as templates).
- Consider replacing a tired benchtop unit if the budget allows—this offers a massive return on investment.
Bathroom & Laundry: Tackle damp areas aggressively. Use commercial mildew remover to refresh tiles and grout. If the lino is old, consider a replacement with a neutral, non-descript pattern—but avoid anything that looks like it’s hiding a structural problem!
Paint Touch-Ups: A quick lick of paint can pay big dividends, but only if done well. Flaky paint or rough edges send the wrong signals; ensure any touch-ups are neat and professional.

Speak to our experienced Ray White Ohope salespeople for more tailored top tips on preparing your home to sell in any season! We have the Expertise to help your property stand out.