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How to prepare your home for an estate agent valuation

Jun 03, 2025
Estate Agent Valuation Tips Prepare For a House Valuation

If you’re considering selling your home, our guide covers what to do before a house valuation and the questions you should ask your estate agent.

Key takeaways

• Declutter, but don’t depersonalise: Get rid of accumulated items and remove bulky furniture to create a spacious feel. Leave some personality to help buyers envision their life in your home.
• A fresh lick of paint: Neutral paint makes rooms appear lighter and bigger, so buyers can better imagine adapting the space to their needs.
• Maximise kerb appeal: First impressions matter, so maintain the windows, roof, front garden, pathways and fences. A well-painted exterior enhances your home’s kerb appeal, which can attract potential buyers.
• Fix and clean: Make minor repairs (e.g., holes, broken knobs, cracked tiles) and clean your home thoroughly prior to your valuation and any viewings. Tidy the garden (trim bushes, clean the patio, and mow the lawn).
 

Do I need an estate agent valuation?

Whether you want to sell your property or get an idea of its market value, it’s worth approaching an estate agent for a valuation. It’s possible to do this online, but talking to a professional is the best way to get an accurate assessment of your property’s value.
 
When it comes to selecting an estate agent, there are several factors to consider:
• Ask for recommendations from friends or family members. 
• You could get valuations from 2 or 3 estate agents in your area for comparison. 
• Compare the additional services and effort each agent will go to.
 
Your relationship with your estate agent is crucial, as they will be the conduit between you and any potential buyers. Find an estate agent you feel comfortable with and can rely on, as they will act as the go-between in any tricky negotiations, delays, or house-buyer chain implications.
 
If you’re looking for a quick sale without being involved in a chain, you could make the most of our Part Exchange scheme.
 

How to prepare for a house valuation

While your property's size, location and current market conditions will significantly influence your valuation, presenting your home at its best ensures an accurate assessment.
 
Make your property as welcoming and well-presented for the estate agent's visit as you would for potential buyers. A thoughtfully presented home allows the agent to make a precise, positive valuation reflecting your property's true potential.
 
A professional estate agent will look beyond everyday living and may suggest targeted improvements before photography, such as refreshing paintwork or professional carpet cleaning, to maximise your home's appeal when it reaches the market.
 

Declutter and tidy

Take a moment to declutter your living areas, arranging cushions and throws neatly to create an inviting feel. Consider removing rugs to highlight the floors, especially if they are in good condition.
 
Everyday essentials, like bins, vacuum cleaners, and cleaning supplies, are best tucked away during viewings, helping your space appear clutter-free. 
 
You could also consider moving furniture around for your estate agent valuation and property photography, if it makes the room look bigger. Open any curtains and blinds to allow as much natural light in as possible.
 

Carry out repairs

The condition of your home's interior directly impacts its market value. Estate agents carefully assess every element, with necessary improvements potentially reducing your valuation figure.
 
Invest wisely in pre-valuation repairs to maximise your property's worth. Replace worn carpets and damaged flooring to transform living spaces. Address minor maintenance issues promptly – fix leaking taps, replace cracked electrical fittings and repair broken door hardware.
 

Consider a fresh paint job

Refreshing your interior walls is another subtle yet effective way to modernise your space and enhance its appeal. Opting for timeless, neutral tones can create a calm and welcoming atmosphere, while a fresh coat of white on skirting boards adds a crisp, clean finish. Removing any tired or peeling wallpaper will also help your home feel cared for – something that could even add value in the long run.
 

Enhance kerb appeal

Your home’s exterior creates that crucial first impression for potential buyers. Enhancing your property's kerb appeal not only makes it more attractive but also adds value when you're ready to sell. Our top tips include:
 
• Refresh your entrance with a new coat of paint on your front door and garage door.
• Transform your garden with seasonal flowers and a freshly cut lawn to showcase your attention to detail, giving buyers confidence that your home is well-maintained.
• Power wash your driveway to restore its pristine condition and move vehicles that obstruct the view of the property.
• Ensure windows are spotlessly clean to let in plenty of natural light.
 

Gather information

You’ll need the following information on hand for an estate agent valuation:
 

Compile essential documents

Create a folder with all paperwork related to major home improvements completed during your ownership. These essential documents enable estate agents to assess how enhancements contribute to your property's value. Comprehensive records also verify that all modifications meet legal requirements and building regulations.
 

Research the local market

Research recent sales of comparable homes in your area to establish realistic value expectations. This local market knowledge reveals precisely what buyers are prepared to pay for properties like yours. It also allows you to sense check estate agent valuations.
 
Identify buyer preferences and consider the local area’s strengths, such as exceptional schools, transport links, or leisure facilities. These factors can enhance your home's marketability. 
 

What should you ask at your estate agent valuation?

When welcoming an estate agent into your home for a valuation, remember this first meeting presents a valuable opportunity for them to learn your property's unique qualities and for you to assess their professional approach and expertise.
 
When discussing your property with a potential estate agent, consider asking these questions:
• What additional services do they offer? Enquire about their digital presence, property tracking systems, and whether you'll benefit from regular updates from a dedicated point of contact throughout your journey.
• Could they provide a transparent breakdown of their fees and any additional costs?
• Would they share examples of similar properties they've successfully marketed, including initial valuations and achieved selling prices?
• How would they position your property within the current market conditions to attract buyers?
• What is their approach to conducting viewings and providing detailed feedback?
• How will they qualify potential buyers to ensure they're bringing only serious purchasers to view your home?
 
Your valuation appointment typically lasts approximately one hour, depending on your property's size and features, how many questions you ask, and the estate agent's commitment to understanding your home.
 
Once you've selected your preferred estate agent, they will arrange for a professional photographer to capture your property's finest features, ensuring your home is presented to the highest standard.
 
Explore new-build homes for sale, or check out our range of offers, including low deposit and Help to Sell schemes.
 

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