First Impressions Count: Improving the Saleability of Your Home
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions really do matter. The moment a potential buyer pulls up outside, they begin forming an opinion. That first glance sets the tone for everything that follows. Before they have even stepped through the front door, they have already decided how they feel about the property. In a competitive market, that moment can make all the difference.
At murfo, we understand that preparing a home for sale is about much more than tidying up or adding a few cushions. It is about creating an emotional connection. Buyers are not just purchasing bricks and mortar. They are buying a lifestyle, a feeling and the promise of something better. That first impression needs to communicate warmth, care and potential. It needs to invite people in.
This charming cottage is a perfect example. After a long-term tenant moved out, the new owner was left with a property that felt tired and unloved. The character was still there, hidden beneath the surface, but the kerb appeal had faded. The once pretty façade had lost its sparkle, and the overall impression was flat. It was time to bring the cottage back to life and restore the sense of charm it once had.
Rather than undertaking a costly renovation, the focus was on making small, affordable changes that would make a real impact. A soft new colour palette instantly lightened the exterior, while a freshly painted front door added personality and warmth. The simple addition of tidy detailing, such as new door hardware and well-placed pots of greenery, helped the home feel loved again. The result was a property that once again looked inviting, well maintained and full of character.
This kind of transformation is about understanding what buyers see and feel in those first few seconds. A tired frontage can suggest neglect, even if the interior is immaculate. On the other hand, a clean and welcoming exterior gives confidence that the rest of the property has been cared for too. It sets a tone of quality and pride that resonates with potential buyers.
The beauty of this approach is that it does not have to cost a fortune. Simple improvements such as repainting, replacing light fittings, updating house numbers or even cleaning pathways can make a world of difference. These are all small touches that can transform a property’s presence and attract more interest online and in person. In many cases, they can even help to increase perceived value and speed up the sale.
At murfo, we believe that design should always deliver. Every home, no matter its size or style, has the potential to make a strong impression. It just takes the right eye to see what will make the biggest impact. Our team works with homeowners and landlords to identify quick wins — smart, creative updates that improve both presentation and saleability.
Sometimes that might mean refreshing key rooms like the kitchen or hallway to create flow and light. Other times, it is about improving the exterior to ensure the property photographs beautifully for online listings. With most buyers beginning their search digitally, that first image has become even more important. A house that looks clean, balanced and welcoming in photos will always attract more clicks, more viewings and, ultimately, more offers.
It is also important to remember that presentation is not just about appearance. It is about creating an atmosphere that feels effortless and aspirational. The goal is to help buyers imagine themselves living there. Fresh paint in neutral tones, clutter-free spaces and a sense of calm can all work together to create this feeling. Even the scent of a home can have an impact — subtle, clean and comforting notes go a long way in setting the scene.
The cottage project shows how even the simplest of changes can completely transform the way a property feels. What was once overlooked is now admired. The owner has not only restored charm but also created a lasting impression that draws buyers in from the very first moment.
If you are preparing to sell, take a few moments to step outside and see your home through fresh eyes. What does it say about you? Does it invite people in or feel closed off? Would a small investment of time and creativity make it more appealing? Chances are, the answer is yes.
Our advice is always to focus on the details that matter most. A clean front door, smart paintwork, tidy landscaping and well-chosen accessories can completely shift how a property is perceived. Buyers are not looking for perfection; they are looking for potential and care. When they see that, they feel more confident making an offer.
At murfo, we help homeowners make informed, design-led decisions that add value and create lasting impressions. Whether it is preparing a property for sale, reimagining a tired rental or simply refreshing a home that needs new energy, we bring the creative insight and practical expertise needed to get results.
Because when it comes to selling your home, design is not just about style. It is about strategy. And as we like to say at murfo, design that delivers really can make all the difference.