The Ultimate Pre-Market Checklist (Get This Right Before You List!)
Follow this essential checklist to give your home the best chance of attracting serious buyers—and securing the best price.
The Ultimate Pre-Market Checklist (Get This Right Before You List!)Thinking of selling your home? Before it hits the market, there are vital steps that can make or break your sale. From paperwork and presentation to pricing and pre-market strategy, a little preparation can go a long way. Follow this essential checklist to give your home the best chance of attracting serious buyers—and securing the best price.
1. Get Your Paperwork Ready Early
Missing paperwork is one of the leading causes of delays in property sales. Getting everything organised in advance helps streamline the process and avoids last-minute panic. You’ll need:
- Title deeds – Proof of ownership
- Property Information Forms – Key details about the property
- Fixtures & Fittings Form – Outlines what’s included in the sale
- Recent utility bills & council tax info – Often requested by buyers
- Guarantees & warranties – For boilers, double glazing, roofing, etc.
- EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) – A legal requirement for selling
✅ At Martyn Russell, our Sale Ready Service ensures all of this is prepared upfront—saving weeks once a buyer is found.
2. Sort Out Any Small Repairs
Minor issues might seem insignificant but can put buyers off or give them bargaining power.
- Fix leaky taps, squeaky doors, or loose handles
- Touch up peeling paint and scuffed skirting boards
- Replace blown bulbs or faulty light switches
3. Declutter and Depersonalise
Buyers need to imagine themselves living in the space. Too much clutter or overly personal decor makes that harder.
- Remove personal photos and bold décor choices
- Clear surfaces and store away non-essential items
- Tidy up cupboards and wardrobes—buyers will often peek inside!
4. Deep Clean for Maximum Impact
A spotless home gives the impression of a well-maintained property.
- Pay close attention to kitchens and bathrooms
- Clean windows inside and out for natural light
- Professionally clean carpets and floors, if needed
5. Boost Your Kerb Appeal
First impressions count—and buyers often form opinions before stepping inside.
- Mow the lawn and trim hedges
- Paint or clean the front door and sweep the pathways
- Add a potted plant or flowers near the entrance
- Power wash the driveway or patio
6. Consider Small, High-Impact Upgrades
You don’t need to renovate to add value. Budget-friendly upgrades can make a significant difference.
- A fresh coat of neutral paint in key rooms
- Update cabinet handles in kitchens or bathrooms
- Replace dated light fittings
- Reseal bathroom edges for a fresh, clean look
7. Price It Right
Your pricing strategy matters. Too high and you’ll deter buyers; too low and you leave money on the table.
- We use local sales data to gauge market value
- Analyse current buyer demand
- Use our Unique Buyer Registration System to test pricing before listing publicly
8. Get Professional Photos & Marketing Material Ready
Buyers start their search online, so your listing needs to shine.
- We provide drone photography and bespoke video tours to showcase your home’s full potential
- Your listing includes a compelling, collaborative description that highlights your home’s most loved features—crafted with your input to help buyers connect emotionally
9. Plan for Viewings
A little staging can go a long way during viewings.
- Let in natural light by opening curtains and blinds
- Use lamps to brighten darker areas
- Add fresh flowers or subtle fragrances to enhance the ambience
✅ We handle all viewings, so buyers feel comfortable, unpressured, and able to ask questions freely.
10. Pre-Market Testing & Buyer Engagement
Before launching on property portals, we connect with qualified buyers using our AI-powered Heads Up Alerts.
- Gauge early interest and feedback
- Test and refine your pricing strategy
- Build demand before going live
Ready to Sell? Let’s Get You Sale Ready
Taking these steps before you list your home can significantly improve your chances of a faster, smoother, and more profitable sale. Want expert guidance and a hands-off experience? Get in touch with Martyn Russell, and let’s get your home Sale Ready today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What paperwork do I need to prepare before listing my home?
You’ll need your title deeds, completed property information forms, an EPC, and any guarantees or warranties for things like boilers or windows. Preparing these early helps avoid delays.
2. Do I really need to fix minor issues before going to market?
Yes – small repairs like leaky taps or scuffed paint can create a negative impression or give buyers a reason to offer less. Addressing them shows your home has been well cared for.
3. How important is kerb appeal when selling?
Very. Buyers often form an opinion before stepping inside. A tidy garden, clean pathways, and a fresh-looking front door can instantly boost the perceived value of your home.
4. What is pre-market testing and how does it help?
Pre-market testing allows us to gauge interest and test pricing with qualified buyers before listing your home publicly. It helps ensure you hit the market with the right price and stronger demand.