What should I do first when selling my house?

Ask a local estate agent what buyers in your area look for, then tidy, clean and fix the small things.

Is it worth renovating before I sell?

Sometimes, but large projects are not always worthwhile. Ask your estate agent before you spend.

Do I need certificates for building work?

Buyers' solicitors often ask for them for work that needed permission or approval, so keep the paperwork.

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How to prepare your house for sale: improvements that help

By the GlowUpp team · 27 October 2026

A tired grey house front next to an AI redesign with white render and a navy front door

BeforeAfter‹›

An AI-generated example. Real results depend on your own space.

A little preparation can help a home show well to buyers. The aim is not to renovate everything, but to fix what puts people off and let the house look its best.

Ask a local estate agent first

Agents know what buyers in your area expect, and what is worth doing. Ask for their view before you spend money on improvements.

Fix the small things

Dripping taps, loose handles and squeaky doors.
Cracked tiles, chipped paint and damaged sealant.
Blown bulbs and dim lighting.
Anything that looks neglected.

Declutter and clean

Clear surfaces, tidy cupboards and thoroughly clean the house. Buyers want to see space and imagine their own things there.

Refresh with paint

Fresh, neutral paint on tired walls brightens rooms and photographs well. Pick light, calm colours.

Kerb appeal

The front is the first impression. Tidy the garden, clean the windows and door, paint the front door if it is tired and make sure the number is clear.

Think about light and smell

Open curtains, switch lights on and keep the house fresh. Damp or stale smells put buyers off quickly.

Photographs matter

Most buyers start online. Good photos of tidy, bright rooms help, so prepare for the photographer as you would for a visitor.

Be careful with big work

Large projects are unlikely to be worth starting just before a sale unless the agent advises it. Any work that needs permission or building regulations approval must have it, and buyers' solicitors may ask for the certificates.

See what could be

Upload a photo of your home to GlowUpp to see AI-generated ideas for paint and kerb appeal. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.

See your own exterior redesigned

Upload a photo and see AI-generated ideas in about two minutes. Free for homeowners, no sign-up needed to start.

Try it with your photo

Common questions

What should I do first when selling my house?: Ask a local estate agent what buyers in your area look for, then tidy, clean and fix the small things.
Is it worth renovating before I sell?: Sometimes, but large projects are not always worthwhile. Ask your estate agent before you spend.
Do I need certificates for building work?: Buyers' solicitors often ask for them for work that needed permission or approval, so keep the paperwork.