Tips for selling your house or flat when you have kids

Selling a home can be a challenging endeavour, but doing so with children adds another layer of complexity. Balancing their needs while preparing your home for potential buyers requires careful planning. With the right strategies, you can minimise stress and create a seamless experience for your family. Here are some essential tips for selling your home when you have children.

Prepare your kids for the change

Children often thrive on routine and familiarity, so the prospect of moving can feel overwhelming. Start by having an open conversation about the move. Share the reasons for selling and emphasize the positive aspects, such as exploring a new neighbourhood or meeting new friends. Use age-appropriate language and encourage them to ask questions or express their feelings.

If possible, involve your kids in the process. Show them the new house (or potential homes) and highlight exciting features. Feeling included can help them adjust more easily to the idea of moving.

Declutter and organise with kids in mind

One of the key steps to preparing your home for sale is decluttering, but this can be especially tricky with children. Sort through toys, books, and clothes to determine what can be donated, stored, or thrown away. Involve your children by turning it into a fun activity. For instance, create a “donation challenge” to see who can part with the most items.

Keep in mind that potential buyers prefer neutral, tidy spaces. Store any remaining toys in stylish storage bins or designate one area of the house for play. This minimises the impact of kids’ belongings on your home’s presentation.

Set a cleaning routine

Maintaining a clean home for showings is crucial, but with kids, messes can accumulate quickly. Create a daily cleaning routine that the entire family can follow. Assign simple, age-appropriate tasks to each child, such as picking up toys, wiping surfaces, or putting away shoes.

Before a scheduled showing, do a quick walkthrough to ensure everything is in order. Keep a basket handy to gather stray items quickly—this will be a lifesaver when buyers give short notice.

Stage your home thoughtfully

Staging your home makes it more appealing to buyers, and this includes minimising signs of child-specific wear and tear. Fix dents, scratches, or crayon marks on walls. Replace worn-out furniture or carpets if they detract from the overall look of the home.

You don’t need to hide the fact that children live there entirely, but aim for a nice balance. For example, a clean, well-arranged playroom can showcase the home’s family-friendly potential without overwhelming buyers.

Leverage storage solutions

Storage can be a lifesaver when selling your home with children. Rent a storage unit to temporarily house excess toys, out-of-season clothes, or large baby equipment. This will declutter your home and make it appear more spacious.

Within the home, use clever storage solutions like under-the-bed bins, stackable boxes, or furniture with built-in storage. These options keep your home looking neat while allowing easy access to items your kids still need daily.

Plan for viewings

Scheduling viewings around your children’s routines is vital. Try to plan viewings during school hours, nap times, or other moments when the house is naturally quieter. If possible, arrange for children to stay with a relative or friend during showings to reduce stress and distractions.

Prepare a “go bag” with snacks, toys, and essentials to keep your children occupied if you need to leave the house quickly for a last-minute viewing.

Work with a solicitor estate agent

An experienced solicitor estate agent can provide valuable insights into selling with children. They’ll understand your unique needs and help coordinate showings that work with your schedule. They may also suggest ways to highlight your home’s family-oriented features, such as a spacious garden or proximity to schools.

Selling your home while juggling parenting responsibilities isn’t easy, but with these strategies, you can make the process smoother. By staying organised, involving your children, and working with a supportive agent, you can sell your home successfully while keeping your family’s well-being intact.