If moving homes is one of your resolutions for 2026, summer offers a valuable window for selling a property.

With buyers active early in the year and many hoping to secure a property before Easter in April, careful preparation and presentation can play a major role in achieving a successful sale.

Begin by scheduling open for inspections (OFIs) in the morning before the afternoon heat kicks in. Morning opens make inspections a more comfortable viewing experience for potential buyers and often show properties in their best light.

As an aside, summer also provides ideal conditions for marketing. The combination of longer daylight hours and clear skies will help capture high-quality photography of your property for the Raine & Horne website, signboards, and online property portals.

Summer offers the perfect opportunity to showcase your outdoor areas. Do this by opening doors and windows to highlight courtyards, gardens, and alfresco spaces.

Likewise, ensure gardens and lawns remain healthy and green by maintaining a reliable watering system and keep outdoor areas tidy and uncluttered throughout the sales campaign. According to Jim’s Mowing[i], the best time to water the lawn is early in the morning, as this allows the water to penetrate the soil before the heat of the day causes it to evaporate. In the summer months, ideally, before 10 am is prime watering time.

If you’re considering minor landscaping improvements, local nurseries can recommend heat-tolerant plants that thrive in Australian summers and maintain their appearance throughout inspection periods. Staying outdoors, if your property comes with a swimming pool, ensure it is sparkling clean, free of leaves and compliant including being fully fenced and has a operational gate. A well-presented pool can be a major drawcard for buyers.

Shifting to the property’s interior, be sure to focus on creating as much light and airflow as possible. Throw open the curtains, the blinds, and doors where possible to maximise natural light. Good ventilation also allows summer breezes to keep the property cooler and comfortable during OFIs.

Regardless of the season, carefully placed, and glistening mirrors can enhance the sense of space in living areas, while spotless windows and doors give the property a fresh, well-maintained appearance.

Comfort is particularly important for summer OFIs, so ensure your air-conditioning units and ceiling fans are in good working order – as you can be sure the buyers will check. Servicing air conditioning systems is a must and includes replacing filters and addressing minor issues such as rattles or other annoying noises.

Also be sure to highlight features such as insulation, energy efficiency and sustainable inclusions, including water tanks and solar panels, which may appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Attention to detail also matters with buyers. Address minor maintenance issues such as dripping taps, faulty window handles or squeaky doors, as these small faults can distract buyers and create unnecessary doubts.

Keep interiors uncluttered by removing personal items such as picture frames and excess furniture to improve airflow and create a lighter, more spacious feel.

Finally, consider the overall experience for buyers attending your OFI. Aerate the property to ensure it smells fresh and avoid heavy fragrances or artificial scents.

A simple, thoughtful touch, such as offering chilled or sparkling water, or lemonade, can also leave a lasting positive impression, particularly on warm summer days when hot and bothered buyers are visiting multiple properties.

With the right preparation and professional guidance, summer can be an excellent time of the year to sell. Your local Raine & Horne agent can provide tailored advice on presentation, timing, and marketing strategies to help you make the most of the 2026 summer selling season.

[i] https://jimsmowing.com.au/2021/11/best-time-to-water-your-lawn/