Start with a walk-through, not a shopping list

Before committing to a new kitchen or bathroom, ask your agent which issues buyers are likely to notice and which improvements fit your home’s price bracket and timeframe. Settled.govt.nz cautions that major renovation costs may not be recovered on sale. No improvement guarantees a higher price.

First: safety, maintenance and disclosure

Deal with known safety concerns and discuss defects with your agent and lawyer. A cosmetic tidy-up is not a substitute for addressing or disclosing a problem. If you need specialist work, use an appropriately qualified person and check any consent requirements before proceeding.

Then: make the home easy to view

Cleaning, decluttering and simple repairs can help buyers understand the space. Tidy the entrance, lawns and paths. Repair obvious minor maintenance where appropriate. Clean windows and bathrooms, and make sure rooms are easy to walk through. Keep the plan manageable: a cared-for home does not have to look newly built.

Pause before major spending

Ask these questions before a larger project:

  • Will it solve a genuine problem or mainly change the style?
  • Is the work likely to matter to the buyers for this property?
  • Can it be completed safely and properly before marketing?
  • What will it cost, including approvals and unexpected work?
  • Could a smaller repair or clearer presentation achieve the purpose?

Your agent can advise on market presentation; a builder, inspector or other specialist advises on the work itself. A valuation or legal question needs the appropriate independent adviser.

Should I stage the property?

Staging may help a vacant or awkward space feel easier to understand. It is not automatically the right solution for every home. Discuss whether full staging, partial styling or simply removing excess furniture is appropriate before you authorise a cost.

How does no costs upfront fit?

One Agency Select Realty’s No Costs Upfront service includes agreed preparation and marketing funded by us and payable at settlement. Advertised services include staging, gardening, cleaning, maintenance, house wash, and building and LIM reports. Agree the exact scope and budget first. Deferred payment is not free work, and costs remain payable if you withdraw without selling under your agreement.

Your next step

Use our selling tips and preparation checklist, then arrange a free appraisal. Build a plan around your actual home rather than copying another property’s renovation budget.

Source

Settled.govt.nz: Preparing your property for sale

General guidance, not building, legal or financial advice. Seek property-specific advice before spending or making disclosures.