When it comes to selling your home, first impressions aren’t just important — they’re everything. Most buyers decide within the first few minutes of walking through the door whether they feel emotionally connected to a property. That’s why nailing your open home presentation can be the difference between a good offer and a great one.

If you’re preparing to list your home in Tarragindi, Annerley, or the surrounding suburbs, here are my top open home secrets to help buyers fall in love with your property the moment they step inside.

1. Create a Warm Welcome — Outside

Your open home begins at the kerb. A tidy, welcoming exterior sets the tone for everything that follows.

Quick wins include:
✔ Freshly mowed lawn and trimmed hedges
✔ A swept driveway and clean path to the front door
✔ A pop of colour with potted plants or flowers
✔ A freshly painted front door or clean doormat

Buyers should feel good about the home before they even walk inside.

2. Let There Be Light (and Air!)

Natural light is one of the most universally appealing features in any home. Open all curtains and blinds to let the sunshine in, and turn on soft lighting in darker corners. Before the open home, open windows or run fans or air conditioning to circulate fresh air and eliminate any musty smells.

A home that feels light, airy, and fresh is always more attractive than one that’s dark or stuffy.

3. Declutter and Depersonalise

You want buyers to imagine themselves living in the space — not feel like they’re visiting someone else’s home.

That means:

  • Clearing kitchen benches and bathroom vanities

  • Minimising personal items like family photos or kids’ artwork

  • Removing excess furniture to create a sense of space

Less is more. A clean, neutral environment allows buyers to visualise their own life in the home.

4. Stage Key Spaces to Tell a Story

Staging doesn’t have to be elaborate — even small styling touches can create an emotional connection. Think of it like storytelling with your space.

  • Add cushions and throws to the couch for a cosy feel

  • Set the dining table simply with placemats and a centrepiece

  • Use greenery or fresh flowers to add life

  • Place a few styled items in the kitchen: a fruit bowl, a cookbook, or a nice coffee machine

If you have an outdoor entertaining space, set it up like you’re ready to host a Sunday lunch. Help buyers imagine the lifestyle they’re buying into.

If you are looking for an incredible stylist who gets our clients amazing results in the sale of their homes, we love Alana Chicco from AC Designs!

5. Smell is Subtle — But Powerful

Scent can trigger emotional memories — both good and bad. On open home day, avoid overpowering air fresheners or cooking smells. Instead, aim for a fresh, clean scent.

  • Light a scented candle in a soft, natural fragrance

  • Bake something simple like banana bread or place out freshly brewed coffee

  • Use fresh linen sprays on beds and soft furnishings

It should feel like walking into a boutique Airbnb — inviting, relaxed, and calming.

6. Don’t Forget the Details

Buyers notice the little things — and those details can influence how “move-in ready” your home feels.

Before the open:
✔ Replace any blown lightbulbs
✔ Repair minor damages (leaky taps, squeaky doors, chipped paint)
✔ Clean windows, mirrors, and shiny surfaces until they sparkle
✔ Ensure bathrooms are spotless with fresh towels displayed

Final Thoughts

An open home isn’t just about showcasing your property — it’s about creating a feeling. When buyers walk in and can already picture their future unfolding within those walls, that’s when the magic happens. And that’s what gets results.

Thinking of selling?
Let’s chat about how to make your home irresistible to buyers — with a custom strategy tailored to the Brisbane market.

📞 Kath Chown – RE/MAX Elevate 0458 912 906