Top 10 Things to Do When Selling Your Home in 2025 (Illawarra & Shellharbour Edition)

Joel Hynes
Mar 21
4 min read

Are you selling your home in the Illawarra or Shellharbour region? Think of it like planning the perfect day at the beach: you need the proper preparation, timing, and a little bit of local know-how to make it a success. To help you navigate the 2025 real estate market, here's our top 10 list of things to do (and what to avoid) to sell your home quickly and for the best price.

1. Price It Right (Don't Be That Seller)

Overpricing your home is like trying to sell a soggy sandwich at a gourmet café—it's just not going to fly. Buyers in 2025 are savvy and'll scroll right past your listing if it's not competitively priced.

What to do:

Get a professional valuation from a local real estate agent.
Check recent sales in your area (think Warrawong to Kiama) to set a realistic price.
Remember, a well-priced home attracts more buyers, which can lead to a higher final sale price.

2. Fix the Little Things (A Leaky Tap Isn't "Charming”)

Buyers want a move-in ready home, not a DIY project. That dripping tap or squeaky door might seem minor to you, but to buyers, it's a red flag.

What to do:

Tackle minor repairs like leaky faucets, cracked tiles, and loose door handles.
Freshen up paint where needed—neutral colours work best.
Don't forget the exterior: mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and fix that wonky fence.

3. Declutter and Depersonalize (Bye-Bye, Family Photos)

Your home should feel like a blank canvas where buyers can imagine their lives. That means packing up personal items like family photos, kids' artwork, and your collection of novelty mugs.

What to do:

Rent a storage unit if needed to clear out excess furniture and clutter.
Pack away personal items and keep surfaces clean and minimal.
Create a sense of space by rearranging furniture to maximize flow.

4. Stage It Like a Pro (No, Your Laundry Pile Isn't Decor)

Staging isn't just for luxury homes. A well-staged property can make your home feel more inviting and help buyers visualize themselves living there.

What to do:

Hire a professional stager or follow online tips to arrange furniture and decor.
Add fresh flowers, cozy throws, and tasteful artwork to create warmth.
Don't forget the outside—a potted plant or a clean doormat can work wonders.

5. Invest in Professional Photography (Dark, Blurry Photos Won't Cut It)

In 2025, most buyers will start their search online, and if your photos don't stand out, your listing will get lost in the shuffle.

What to do:

Hire a professional photographer to capture your home in the best light.
Highlight key features like spacious living areas, stunning views, or a modern kitchen.
Include photos of the local area—buyers love seeing nearby beaches, parks, and cafés.

6. Write a Killer Listing Description (Sell the Lifestyle)

Your listing description is your chance to sell not just your home but the lifestyle that comes with it. Think: "Enjoy morning coffee on your sun-drenched balcony with views of the Illawarra escarpment."

What to do:

Highlight unique features like a renovated kitchen, a large backyard, or proximity to the beach.
Use descriptive language to paint a picture of life in your home.
Mention local attractions, like the Wollongong Botanic Gardens or Shellharbour Marina.

7. Be Flexible with Inspections (Make It Easy for Buyers)

Buyers are busy, and if your inspection times are too restrictive, you might miss out on potential offers.

What to do:

Offer a range of inspection times, including weekends and evenings.
Keep your home “inspection-ready" at all times—clean, tidy, and smelling fresh.
Consider virtual tours for out-of-town buyers.

8. Market Like a Pro (Your Home Won't Sell Itself)

In 2025, a "For Sale" sign in the front yard isn't enough. You need a multi-channel marketing strategy to reach as many buyers as possible.

What to do:

List your home on major real estate websites like Domain and Realestate.com.au.
Use social media to promote your listing—share photos, videos, and open house details.
Consider targeted ads to reach buyers looking in your area.

9. Negotiate Like a Boss (But Don't Get Greedy)

When offers start rolling in, it's essential to negotiate effectively without scaring buyers away.

What to do:

Work with your agent to evaluate offers carefully.
Be open to reasonable negotiations—don't let ego get in the way of a good deal.
Remember, the first offer isn't always the best, but it might be the only one you get.

10. Know Your Local Market (The Illawarra Isn't Sydney)

The Illawarra and Shellharbour regions have their unique real estate markets. What works in Sydney might not work here.

What to do:

Research recent sales in your suburb to understand local trends.
Highlight what makes your area unique, like proximity to beaches, schools, or public transport.
Work with a local agent who knows the ins and outs of the market.

Bonus Tip: Be Patient (But Not Too Patient)

Selling a home can be stressful, but don't let impatience lead to bad decisions. Trust the process, and remember: the right buyer is out there.

Conclusion

Selling your home in 2025 doesn't have to be a headache. By following these 10 steps, you'll be well on your way to a successful sale in the Illawarra and Shellharbour region. And who knows? With the right preparation, you might even have time to celebrate with a Chickos feast once the deal is done. 🎉