Kirsty Walker of Eves Real Estate (Bethlehem)

How often have I heard that? Well actually - never. Everyone wants to maximise their sale price- but not everyone helps their agent to achieve this for them.

It is really important in the current market where buyers are choosy to present your home well. Yes that does mean a little work and I will present some useful clues. Firstly De-clutter! No don't just shove it all into a hall cupboard. Invariably your prospective buyer will choose that cupboard to open.

Buyers need to picture themselves at home here. Not in a comfortable laid back on the couch, remote and beer in hand feet up on the coffee table and TV blaring way. They are looking for the complete homely feel with them and their family in it. They want to picture themselves and approve all rooms (even if that means in their mind refurbishing).

So step one get the kids to return home and reclaim their junk! Store some in boxes stacked away in the shed , garage or off site if you are a serious collector! Perhaps sell some on Trademe or give it to an op shop.

And while you are de-cluttering remove or reduce the number of those very personal photos. And for you and your agents peace of mind remove any very valuable artefacts. Store out of sight the nudes or any memorabilia that may offend ! You don't want to put up barriers and create reasons for people not to buy when something as simple as de-cluttering can make such a profound and positive impact. Generally it is not even expensive- it just takes a little time and effort.

When you are on the market your buyer may call your agent to request an appointment to view at any time. Try to be ready for this - as sales people we too need to be reactive and make their new home choice as easy a process as possible.