Don’t Miss These 4 Steps When Preparing to Sell Your Home
Preparation to sell your home is one of the most important steps in the selling process. It might feel like a big task, but a well-prepared home can make all the difference in attracting buyers and securing a great deal.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive in! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your house ready for the market—from completing essential repairs to gathering important documents.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Fill Out the Sales Questionnaire
key details about your property’s condition and history, including:
- When was the house last painted?
- What are the average energy costs?
- Are there any leaks or asbestos present?
Answer these questions honestly and thoroughly. Transparency is crucial to avoid future issues. For example, failing to disclose a known defect could lead to legal disputes if the buyer discovers it later. Being upfront builds trust and ensures a smoother sales process.
Step 2: Prepare a List of Items Included in the Sale
ken”). This outlines which moveable assets will stay with the house, such as curtains, custom light fixtures, or garden equipment. There are three main options:
- Items that stay: These are often custom-made or permanently attached, like built-in shutters or a wall-mounted TV bracket.
- Items you’ll take with you: If you want to keep certain belongings, like curtains or a beloved chandelier, specify this on the list.
- Items available for purchase: Some items, such as garden tools or furniture, can be offered to the buyer for an additional fee. This can be a win-win, especially if the buyer finds them useful.
Having this document ready ensures there’s no confusion about what is—and isn’t—included in the sale.
Step 3: Understand the Energy Label Requirements
In the Netherlands, it’s mandatory to provide an energy label (“energielabel”) when selling a house. This label gives buyers insight into the home’s energy efficiency, which can influence their decision. Some banks even offer better mortgage terms for homes with high energy ratings (A or B).
Here’s what you need to know:
- The energy label must be less than 10 years old.
- If your home’s label is outdated, consider applying for a new one, especially if you’ve made upgrades like installing solar panels or replacing windows.
- Without a valid energy label, the notary cannot finalize the sale (except for registered monumental properties).
Obtaining a new energy label costs around €300-€350. Your real estate agent (makelaar) can often recommend certified providers to help you get this done quickly and at a competitive rate.
Step 4: Get Your Home Ready for Photos and Showings
First impressions matter. Buyers often struggle to see the potential in a home that needs work, so it’s important to make your house look its best from the start. Tackle any small repairs, such as fixing squeaky doors, repainting scuffed walls, or tidying up the garden. The goal is to show buyers how beautiful your home is, not how beautiful it could be.
Ask yourself: “If I were a buyer walking into this house, what would stand out to me?” This mindset can help you prioritize the fixes that matter most.
Why These Steps Matter
By following these steps, you’re not just preparing your house for sale—you’re giving buyers the confidence they need to make an offer. A well-prepared home, combined with clear and honest documentation, sets the stage for a smooth transaction and helps you achieve the best possible price.
Need help? Reach out to your makelaar or consult trusted professionals to guide you through the process. Selling your home might be a lot of work, but with the right preparation, it’s well worth it!
Interesting but want to know how to choose a makelaar? Read here on what you should know.
Want an overview of the sales process in the Netherlands? You’ll find that here.
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