Would You Buy Your Own Home?
Here's a brutally honest pre-sale checklist from Browns Estate Agents...

You’ve made memories, probably hosted a few legendary BBQs, maybe even raised a family in your home—but now it's time to part ways. And as emotional as that might be, there's one seriously important question every seller should ask:
👉 Would I buy this place all over again?
We know, it's a bit of a gut punch. But trust us—putting on your buyer hat is the smartest thing you can do before you stick that “For Sale” sign in the garden. Sentiment doesn’t sell… but a killer first impression absolutely does.
At Browns Estate Agents, we’ve put together a brutally honest (but helpful!) self-audit to help you see your home through a buyer’s eyes.
🕵️♂️ Does It Smell... Fresh?
Let’s be real—after a few years (or decades), we all go a little nose-blind to our own homes. Whether it’s the dog’s favourite chair, last night’s curry, or that mysterious “loft” smell, buyers will notice it even if you don’t.
Top Tip: Crack open the windows, deep-clean those carpets, and go for light, fresh scents. Skip the synthetic plug-ins—this isn’t a carwash!
✨ Is It Clean-Clean, or “Guests Are Coming Over” Clean?
There’s tidy, and then there’s potential-buyer-viewing tidy. Think gleaming chrome, sparkling windows, and not a smudge or cobweb in sight.
Buyers aren’t just nosy—they’re eagle-eyed. If it’s not spotless, they’ll assume it’s hiding something. Harsh, but true.
🎨 What Are Your Walls Saying?
Love that deep purple feature wall? Buyers might not. And don’t even get us started on that ‘90s border wallpaper. Your style might be bold and brilliant—but most buyers are dreaming of a blank canvas.
A couple of tins of neutral paint could make your home feel twice as big, bright, and breezy. Plus, beige is SO in right now.
💡 How’s the Lighting?
Natural light is every buyer’s best friend. Dark, moody corners? Not so much.
Make sure curtains are open wide, replace any dim or flickering bulbs, and consider adding a few mirrors or lamps to lift darker spaces. Even a rainy Tuesday shouldn’t dull your home’s shine.
🔧 Have You Fixed the Small Stuff?
That squeaky door you’ve meant to oil for six years? The drawer that only opens if you sweet-talk it? Buyers will notice these things—and they won’t be charmed by them.
Take a weekend to tighten handles, re-hang that sagging gate, and smooth over the little annoyances.
Small fixes = big reassurance.
💭 Final Thought: Buyers Want to See Themselves in Your Home
Your job as a seller is to make that as easy as possible. Strip out distractions, show off space, and let them imagine their future here—not yours.
Feeling a bit too close to be objective? We totally get it. That’s where we come in.
At Browns Estate Agents, we offer pre-sale walkthroughs with honest, helpful advice on exactly what buyers are looking for in today’s market. No fluff—just practical tips to help you sell smarter and faster.
Ready for your home’s reality check? Get in touch with our friendly team today. We’ve got the kettle on and the clipboard ready!