Thinking of selling your home or a rental property? Estate agent Michael Foley shares six practical, low-cost strategies—from decluttering to staging—that can help you increase your selling price without major renovations. “There’s not a lot you can do about certain aspects of your home, like the location or size, but there are smart strategies you can use to increase its selling price. Michael Foley is an experienced auctioneer known for his competitive edge in both buying and selling. Here, he shares his perspective on why preparation is crucial – and how small, targeted changes can significantly boost the amount you walk away with when selling your home.
“ In most cases, it’s not worth ploughing a fortune into major renovations just to sell. But it is worth giving the place a thorough clean (or hiring professional cleaners if needed), adding a fresh lick of paint, cutting the grass and removing any overgrown weeds – small cosmetic upgrades like these can make a big difference to how your home presents. – at Killian Lynch Auctioneers we can also organise all of these for you plumbers, painters, cleaners, maintenance men”.
But if you’re thinking of putting your home or another house, maybe a former rental property or a house that has been empty for a while on the market, there are a few simple things you can do to give you a better shot at achieving a top price. Here are six steps I always recommend:
- Declutter Like You’re Moving Tomorrow It might sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many sellers leave years of accumulated clutter out for all to see. Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home—not feel like they’re walking through a car boot sale. Clear surfaces, remove excess furniture, and pack away personal items. Think of it as getting a head start on your own move. Less clutter makes a place look more roomy so potential buyers will see the rooms as larger and more spacious and that can increase the value of your house to potential buyers.
- Refresh, Don’t Renovate
Massive renovations rarely pay off just before a sale. What you want instead are quick wins: a fresh coat of paint (neutral tones work best), new handles on kitchen cupboards, updated light fixtures. These low-cost touches can instantly modernise a space and help buyers feel like they’re walking into a well-maintained home.
- Fix What’s Broken
Doors that squeak, taps that drip, light switches that don’t work are all signals of neglect. Buyers are often cautious about what surprises might be lurking, small faults can raise red flags. Potential buyers think ‘well if it is like that on the surface it could be a lot worse behind the scenes. So if you can’t do it yourself, hire a handyman for a day to go through the property and sort out the little jobs. It shows pride of ownership, which buyers love.
- First Impressions
First impressions count. Make sure your front garden is tidy – the grass is cut, any paths are clear of moss or weeds , and the front door looks clean and welcoming. It may sound obvious but make sure the windows are clear of any mould, cobwebs or dirt. A couple of potted plants by the entrance can make a surprisingly big difference.
- Let There Be Light
Dark rooms feel smaller and less inviting. Open the curtains, clean the windows, and consider adding lamps and mirrors to brighten darker areas. If your budget allows, swap out heavy drapes for something lighter. Natural light is one of the biggest selling points in any home.
- Stage It – Even Just a Little
For those of you who don’t know, home staging is when you employ people to make your home appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. Most of us won’t be going down this route, but adding some thoughtful touches can help buyers see a better picture and can help them to visualise making the property their home. A vase of fresh flowers, neatly arranged throw pillows, a bowl of fruit in the kitchen—these subtle cues can make the house more attractive to buyers.
Final Thoughts
I always say: the best results come from houses that make people feel good the moment they step inside. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune, but a bit of effort and elbow grease can add tens of thousands to your final sale price.
So, take these six steps to heart, and give yourself the best shot for the top result.
If you’re thinking of selling, get in touch with me today for a FREE valuation.
Michael Foley IPAV MMCEPI
To contact Michael – mob: 0874760910 | tel: 02641421 info@klauctioneers.ie | michael@klauctioneers.ie
