Tips for selling your house or flat when you have kids

Selling your house or flat when you have kids can be a challenging task. 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 five essential tips for selling your home when you have kids.

1. Help your kids adjust to the move

Children often thrive on routine, so the prospect of moving can feel overwhelming. Start by having an open conversation about the change. Explain the reasons for selling and emphasise the positives, like exploring a new neighbourhood or making new friends. Use age-appropriate language and encourage your kids to ask questions or share their feelings.

Whenever possible, involve your children in the process. Take them to see potential homes and highlight features they might enjoy, such as a big garden or a nearby park. Feeling included can make the transition smoother and help them embrace the move as an exciting adventure.

2. Declutter and organise with kids in mind

Preparing your home for sale often starts with decluttering—a task that can be tricky when kids are involved. Go through toys, books, and clothes to decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Make it fun by turning decluttering into a game, like a “donation challenge” to see who can part with the most items.

Keep in mind that potential buyers prefer clean, neutral spaces. Use stylish storage bins to neatly organise toys and designate one area of the house for play. This approach keeps your home tidy and highlights its functionality without overwhelming buyers.

3. Maintain a cleaning routine

Keeping your home show-ready can be challenging with kids, but a consistent cleaning routine makes all the difference. Assign age-appropriate tasks to each child, such as picking up toys, wiping surfaces, or putting away shoes. This not only lightens your load but also teaches responsibility.

Before scheduled showings, do a quick walkthrough to ensure everything is in order. Keep a basket handy for gathering stray items quickly—a lifesaver for last-minute viewings.

4. Stage your home thoughtfully

Staging your home helps it appeal to buyers, and this includes addressing child-specific wear and tear. Repair dents, scratches, or crayon marks on walls. Consider replacing worn-out furniture or carpets if they detract from the home’s overall appearance.

You don’t need to erase all signs of children. A clean, well-organised playroom, for example, can showcase the home’s family-friendly potential. Aim for a balance that highlights your home’s versatility while maintaining a polished look.

5. Plan for viewings

Scheduling viewings around your children’s routines can reduce stress. Whenever possible, plan showings during school hours, nap times, or moments when the house is naturally quieter. Arrange for your kids to stay with a relative or friend during showings to minimise 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 viewing. This small step can make last-minute preparations much easier.

Bonus Tip: Leverage storage solutions

Effective storage solutions are invaluable when selling your home with children. Consider renting a storage unit for excess toys, seasonal clothing, or large baby equipment. This creates a more spacious and inviting environment for potential buyers.

In your home, use creative storage options like under-the-bed bins, stackable boxes, or furniture with built-in compartments. These help maintain a tidy appearance while keeping necessary items accessible.

Work with a solicitor estate agent

Partnering with an experienced solicitor estate agent can simplify the process of selling your home when you have kids. They can provide tailored advice, coordinate viewings that fit your schedule, and highlight your home’s family-friendly features, such as proximity to schools or a spacious garden.

Ready to sell your home?

Ready to take the first step? Get started with a free home valuation from TSPC agents. Simply fill out our free valuation form, and we’ll connect you with one of our experts to guide you through the process.