How to improve your home for sale

Why prepare your home before selling?

First impressions matter. When a potential buyer visits your house, they form an opinion within seconds. A well-maintained property conveys confidence, removes doubt, and can even justify a higher price. A well-presented house also stands out on property portals, increasing the number of in-person visits.

Make small improvements with big impact

You don't need a full renovation. Often, small upgrades deliver impressive visual and functional results. Here are a few suggestions:

• Paint walls in light, neutral tones;

• Replace outdated cabinet handles with modern ones;

• Apply new silicone in bathrooms and kitchens;

• Polish floors or add a fresh coat of varnish;

• Replace old bulbs with LED lighting for a brighter feel.

These small changes help make the home feel move-in ready — a huge advantage for potential buyers.

Eliminate signs of wear and tear

Signs of dampness, cracks in walls, squeaky doors or dripping taps give the impression that the home needs work. Fixing these issues can significantly improve the perceived value of the property.

Also, tidy gardens and outdoor spaces add curb appeal, especially for homes with patios, pools, or green areas.

Create a neutral, welcoming atmosphere

Depersonalisation is a key part of preparing a house for sale. The goal is for any buyer to imagine themselves living there. This involves:

• Removing personal photos and overly specific items;

• Reducing furniture to make rooms appear more spacious;

• Using calm, neutral décor;

• Adding subtle scents (vanilla, lavender, cinnamon) for a positive sensory experience.

This is commonly known as home staging and can be done independently or with professional help.

Accurately assess your property's value

Knowing your home’s real market value is critical. Many sellers make the mistake of setting prices based on emotion or comparison to other properties. But each home is unique, and a professional property valuation by Engel & Völkers provides a realistic estimate based on location, condition, and current demand.

To understand your position in the market, it’s also useful to check the latest real estate market study, which highlights property trends, average prices by region, and buyer behaviour.

Prepare your documents in advance

The paperwork required for selling a home in Portugal can be extensive, especially in cases of inheritance or unregistered modifications. Having everything ready avoids delays and reassures buyers. Key documents include:

• Permanent land registry certificate;

• Property tax document;

• Usage license;

• Energy certificate.

Understand the taxes and fees involved

Selling a house may involve paying certain taxes and fees. Being aware of these will help you plan properly. The most common include:

• Capital gains tax: If the sale price exceeds the original purchase price, capital gains tax may apply.  

• Stamp duty: Typically paid by the buyer but still important for the seller to understand. 

Choose the right real estate agency

Partnering with the right real estate agency for selling can accelerate the process, attract serious buyers, and ensure legal safety. Engel & Völkers stands out for its international reach, deep knowledge of the local market, and a trusted team of experts.

Invest in strong property marketing

Nowadays, most buyers begin their search online. Professional photos, detailed descriptions, and even virtual tours can greatly boost interest. Consider offering:

• 360° virtual visits;

• Bright, professional photographs;

• Floorplans;

• Thorough descriptions including nearby amenities and attractions.

Highlight the strengths of your home

Every home has something special. Whether it’s a beautiful view, solar exposure, an elegant garden, or a basement gym, make sure to showcase these features in your photos and in-person viewings.

Selling an apartment?

Even if you're selling a flat instead of a standalone home, it’s important to highlight the benefits of apartment living. Engel & Völkers offers an insightful article on the pros and cons of apartment living, which can help you frame your listing effectively.

The key to a successful sale

Selling a home takes planning, effort, and strategy. By following these tips and working with a team with experience in the real estate sector, you’ll boost your chances of making a fast and profitable sale.

Engel & Völkers is here to support you every step of the way — from property valuation and marketing to handling all legal documentation. If you're wondering how much your property is worth, speak to a consultant and start your selling journey with confidence.