Thinking of Moving? 5 Things to Do Before Putting Your Home on the Market

Looking to take your next step up the property ladder? Getting a house market-ready requires careful planning, honest advice, and local expertise.

We caught up with Liz Burn, owner and director at Carousel Estate Agents, based at Trinity Square in Gateshead on how to get your house ready to sell.

Established in 2014, Carousel Estate Agents is a dedicated independent estate agency built on personal, face-to-face relationships. Something that is reflected in their glowing reviews.

“Because we are an independent agency, we get to know each client personally and focus entirely on what they need,” explains Liz. “Moving home is a major life event. Our job is to work alongside buyers and sellers through every step of the journey.”

If you’re considering putting your home on the market, here are Liz’s five essential steps to ensure a smooth, successful sale:

Get a realistic valuation

Setting the right asking price from day one is the single most important factor in securing a sale. Marketing at an accurate price builds immediate buyer confidence and prevents your property from sitting stagnant on the market.

At Carousel Estate Agents, the valuation process goes beyond numbers on a computer screen:

• In-person home visits
• Local market knowledge
• Free independent financial advice

Declutter and make a strong first impression

“Curb appeal is a must,” says Liz. “The very first thing a buyer looks at is the photograph and the price. If those two things don’t match up, they simply won’t step through the door, or even browse your photos online.”

Here are Liz’s top tips for dressing your home for viewings:

• Ensure rooms clearly reflect their intended purpose so buyers can easily picture the function of each area.
• It doesn’t need to be a show home, but make sure rooms are tidy, beds are made, and spaces are clear so viewers can freely walk around without feeling like they are intruding.
• Don’t schedule viewings around family mealtimes to avoid awkward situations or overwhelming cooking smells.
• Take pets and small children out during viewings. Not everyone lives in the same way and removing pets helps buyers focus entirely on the space.

Fix the small jobs you’ve been putting off

Fixing minor issues like a loose door handle, scuffed skirting boards or a dripping tap are quick to do and signals to buyers that the property has been well-maintained and cared for. During an initial valuation visit, the Carousel team will provide you with advice on minor repairs that can boost buyer confidence in your property and help you achieve the best possible sale price.

Understand what buyers in Gateshead are looking for

Gateshead is currently a buoyant and active sales market. Understanding local buyer demographics and timing helps you market your home far more effectively.

“Tyneside flats and traditional terraces remain popular starter properties in the area.” Says Liz, “They offer fantastic value for first-time buyers trying to get a foot on the property ladder and serve as ideal stepping stones for those moving upward.”

Not every buyer can see past older decor or layout. Accompanied viewings as standard and the ability to paint a compelling picture for purchasers have been key to Carousel’s success, including, more recently, using AI visualisation technology to show buyers what a property could look like after a makeover or refurbishment.

“The end of November and early December is an ideal window to start getting your home market-ready. Once the Christmas decorations come down in late December and early January, buyers immediately start searching for new homes to kick off the new year, and you’ll be ready.”

Choose a local estate agent who knows the area

Working with a local agent who understands the Gateshead community makes all the difference when negotiating a sale.

As an independent, neutral third party, Carousel can hold frank, open, and constructive conversations with prospective purchasers. This impartiality fosters trust, resolves buyer hesitations quickly and keeps sales moving forward smoothly.

Ready to make your next move?

Whether you need a realistic valuation, expert marketing advice, or independent mortgage guidance, pop into Carousel Estate Agents at Trinity Square. Liz and the team are ready to help you navigate your sale with integrity, confidence and local knowledge.