According to experienced agent Derek von Sturmer, most sellers are focused on impressing buyers. But buyers? They’re often doing the opposite, looking for reasons to walk away.

Derek says he approaches every home from a buyer’s mindset: critically and intentionally. He aims to spot issues before buyers do, so there’s less room for doubt or hesitation. He describes it simply: stepping in with a critical lens and thinking about how a buyer might respond. If something raises a question, it raises a hesitation, and that can stall a sale.

It’s not about tricks, it’s about trust

Derek prepares homes to be shown in their best possible light. That might mean recommending minor repairs, decluttering, styling, or simply knowing where to focus effort. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s confidence. When buyers walk through a home that feels clean, calm, and cared for, they’re more likely to move forward without second-guessing.

Presentation isn’t just paint-deep

One of the most common mistakes Derek sees is sellers styling their homes for themselves, not for the market. He’s seen homes with colours or finishes that might suit the owner’s personal taste, but not necessarily the broad range of buyers who’ll be walking through.

His approach is to keep things simple and neutral, creating a space that doesn’t distract, overwhelm, or divide opinion. The aim is to help buyers see the space, not what they’d need to change.

Know who you’re selling to

While you can never guarantee who your buyer will be, Derek believes it’s smart to prepare your home with a likely audience in mind. That doesn’t mean guessing or stereotyping, it means being intentional. A well-presented home that considers how it might be received tends to feel more welcoming and complete.

Overwhelmed? That’s normal

Preparing a home for sale takes time and energy, and many sellers are already stretched thin. Derek has worked with countless families trying to juggle work, parenting, and everyday life while also getting their property market-ready. That’s why he’s structured his service to reduce that pressure. Sellers don’t need to manage every detail themselves. With the right guidance and support, the process becomes far less overwhelming, and far more effective.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.