The statistics are compelling. 19% of sellers’ agents reported a 1% to 5% increase in offer prices for staged homes, and nearly half observed staging reduced time on market.
Most commonly staged rooms:
The housing market in 2025 has shifted. Buyers are more selective, inventory has increased, and properties need to work harder to stand out.
Simply putting a “For Sale” board in the front garden isn’t enough anymore. Today’s buyers want move-in ready homes with modern features and energy efficiency. They research online before ever stepping through your door.
The good news? With the right preparation, you can attract serious buyers and achieve the sale price you’re hoping for.
Why Preparation Matters in 2025
Inventory has increased by 11.7% compared to last year, giving buyers more choice. When buyers have options, they become more discerning.
The impact of proper preparation:
- 30% of sellers' agents observed quicker sales for prepared homes
- 19% noted a significant reduction in selling time
- 29% reported staging led to a 1% to 10% increase in offer prices
Starting early gives you time to tackle improvements without rushing and position your home as a standout property. Our team at Michael Anthony has seen first-hand how proper preparation transforms a property’s appeal and final sale price.
What Buyers Want in 2025
Energy Efficiency is Essential
Rising utility costs mean buyers are prioritising energy-efficient features. Properties with good Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings are more attractive and can command higher prices.
You’ll need a valid EPC before marketing your property. They cost between £35 and £120 and are valid for 10 years.
Top tip: Get your EPC early so you can address any recommended improvements before listing.
Smart Home Features
Smart thermostats, security systems, and voice-controlled lighting have moved from luxury to essential. You don’t need to turn your home into a smart house, but a few key upgrades signal that your property is modern and well-maintained.
Flexible Living Spaces
The shift to hybrid working means buyers want spaces that serve multiple purposes. A spare bedroom staged as a home office with a day bed shows dual purpose. A dining room with a desk demonstrates workspace potential.
Outdoor Living
Many buyers see their garden as an extension of indoor living space. Covered patios, tidy landscaping, and usable outdoor areas can be major selling points, even in small gardens.
Your Preparation Timeline
Three Months Before: The Big Picture
Walk through your home with a critical eye. Be honest about repairs, maintenance issues, and areas that look dated.
Focus on:
- Repairs (leaky taps, broken fixtures, cosmetic issues)
- Decluttering (box up anything you don't use daily)
- Depersonalising (remove photos and personal collections)
Consider a pre-listing inspection to identify problems before buyers discover them. Our free property valuations include advice on which improvements will add the most value.
Two Months Before: Tackle Repairs
Address items that buyers will notice or that could come up in surveys.
Essential repairs:
- Replace broken tiles
- Fix dripping taps
- Touch up scuffed paintwork
- Ensure all lights work
Quick energy wins: Loft insulation is one of the fastest ways to improve your EPC rating. Up to 25% of heat can escape through an uninsulated roof.
Six Weeks Before: Deep Clean
A thorough clean makes an enormous difference. Consider moving excess items to storage.
Decluttering checklist:
- Clear kitchen worktops
- Tidy wardrobes (buyers will look inside)
- Remove personal items
- Minimise furniture to make rooms feel larger
Get windows professionally cleaned and replace worn door mats. These small touches prevent buyers being put off before they enter.
Four Weeks Before: Consider Staging
The statistics are compelling. 19% of sellers’ agents reported a 1% to 5% increase in offer prices for staged homes, and nearly half observed staging reduced time on market.
Most commonly staged rooms:
- Living room (91%)
- Primary bedroom (83%)
- Kitchen (68%)
Professional staging typically costs £500 to £1,500. The investment often pays for itself through a quicker sale and better offers.
Two Weeks Before: Perfect Curb Appeal
92% of estate agents recommend improving curb appeal before listing. A £415 lawn care service recoups an average of 217% in added home value.
Simple improvements:
- Tidy the front garden
- Clean or repaint the front door
- Power wash driveways
- Repair damaged fencing
Remember: 75% of serious interest occurs in the first two weeks of listing. Strong curb appeal is your first opportunity to capture attention.
Room-by-Room Essentials
Kitchen
Clear worktops, deep clean appliances, and update old cabinet hardware. Good lighting makes kitchens feel inviting and helps buyers imagine gathering there.
Living Room
Clear worktops, deep clean appliances, and update old cabinet hardware. Good lighting makes kitchens feel inviting and helps buyers imagine gathering there.
Bedrooms
Fresh, neutral bedding, clear surfaces, and tidy wardrobes create a peaceful retreat. If you have space, a reading nook shows the room’s potential.
Bathrooms
Deep clean grout and taps, replace worn towels with fresh white ones, and add spa-like touches. Bathrooms are scrutinised because they’re expensive to replace.
Marketing Your Home
Professional Photography
The average UK buyer spends 4.2 hours researching properties online before booking a viewing. Professional photos aren’t optional; they’re fundamental to getting viewings.
At Michael Anthony, professional photography is part of our service, ensuring your property is showcased at its best across all major portals.
Pricing Right
Overpricing leaves homes sitting on the market. Pricing too low makes buyers suspicious. Our team has access to up-to-date sales data and knows exactly what buyers are paying right now.
When you work with our team, you’re getting decades of local market knowledge in Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire.
Flexible Viewings
Evening and weekend viewings suit today’s buyers best. Keep your home viewing-ready with fresh flowers, open curtains, comfortable temperature, and pleasant scents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping small repairs: Every problem becomes a negotiating point. A £50 repair could cost you hundreds in reduced offers.
- Over-personalising: Remove family photos and bold colours. 81% of buyer's agents say staging helps buyers visualise the property as their future home.
- Ignoring outdoor spaces: Gardens are increasingly important. Make sure outdoor areas are tidy and show their potential.
- Neglecting energy efficiency: With high energy costs, buyers scrutinise running costs. Simple improvements can boost your EPC rating and appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to prepare a home for sale?
For basic preparation including minor repairs, deep cleaning, and decluttering, expect to spend £500 to £1,500. Add another £500 to £1,500 for professional staging. This investment typically pays for itself through higher offers and quicker sales. Research shows staged homes often sell for 5-10% more than comparable unstaged properties.
How long does it take to prepare a home for sale?
Most homes need 4 to 12 weeks of preparation time. If your home just needs cleaning and decluttering, you might be ready in a month. For repairs, EPC improvements, or cosmetic updates, allow 8 to 12 weeks. Starting early reduces stress and gives you time for thoughtful decisions.
Do I really need to stage my home?
While not legally required, the statistics support staging’s value. Staged homes sell 73% faster and can achieve prices 5-25% above listing price. Even basic staging principles like decluttering and arranging furniture to showcase space will significantly improve your home’s appeal.
Do I need an EPC to sell my house?
Yes, in the UK you must have a valid EPC before marketing your property. They cost £35 to £120 and are valid for 10 years. Get yours early so you can address recommended improvements before listing, potentially increasing your home’s value and appeal.
What's the most important room to focus on?
The living room ranks as most important (91% of agents stage this space), followed by the main bedroom (83%) and kitchen (68%). However, every room matters. It’s better to do a thorough job throughout than have one perfect room and several that disappoint.
Work With Michael Anthony Estate Agents
For over 30 years, we’ve been helping families across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire achieve successful home sales.
What sets us apart:
- Deep local knowledge across four branches (Bletchley, Hemel Hempstead, Milton Keynes, Tring)
- Professional photography and marketing across all major portals
- Honest pricing advice based on current market data
- Members of the Property Ombudsman Scheme and NAEA
Ready to Get Started?
Our free property valuations include advice on maximising your home’s appeal and value. No pressure, no obligation.
Get in touch with our team or visit your local branch to speak with one of our experienced estate agents.
For more insights, check out our latest property news or read what our clients say about working with us.