Selling your parents’ house can be challenging, and it often comes with mixed emotions. You might be feeling torn between sorting through years of family memories, decluttering the space, and the thought of moving on from the property.

As Sarah Tiplady, co-founder of Auckland Real Estate Agents, shares:

“Having personally gone through the experience of selling my own parents’ house in Epsom, I understand how challenging it can be. It’s not just about the practical task of packing and presenting a house for sale, but also about sorting through memories, organizing belongings, and coming to terms with the change. It can be a lot to handle, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to feel like you’re carrying the weight alone.”

We understand that selling a family home involves more than just cleaning and listing a property. It’s about making the transition as smooth as possible while being mindful of the family’s emotional needs.

When it comes to selling a family home, one of the first things we recommend is sitting down with your family to discuss your options. Having an open conversation about everyone’s expectations can help clarify things early on. Each family member might have different ideas about the speed of the process, the sale price, or what the home’s value should be.

It’s also crucial to seek independent legal advice during this time. Understanding the legal steps—such as probate—can help you navigate the process with clarity. Setting realistic time frames and communicating those expectations across the family can go a long way in reducing stress.

We also recommend reaching out to a real estate agent early in the process. Speaking to an agent can give you a clearer picture of what needs to be done to the house, as well as the costs, timing, and the market conditions. Getting early advice on the best time to hit the market and what improvements are worth doing can help you make decisions about the house that will maximize your return.

When it comes to preparing the property for sale, it’s important to assess what maintenance or improvements need to be made. Sometimes, spending money on major repairs or renovations isn’t necessary to achieve the best result. In fact, simple tasks like decluttering, improving presentation, or working with existing furniture to stage the house can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers.

As Sarah Tiplady explains:

“We’ve helped many clients who were unsure about whether to spend money on large renovations or just focus on enhancing the home’s presentation. Often, it’s about making the house look its best without over-investing in projects that may not have a return. A fresh coat of paint, decluttering, partial staging, or some landscaping can do wonders without breaking the bank.”

By talking to your real estate agent early, you can decide what level of presentation or staging will suit the property. We often recommend partial staging, which helps showcase the home’s potential without overwhelming the original style of the property. We can also advise on any light landscaping to enhance the curb appeal, making the home more attractive to a wider audience.

Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind when preparing a family home for sale:

1. Sit Down with Your Family: Discuss everyone’s expectations and get a clear idea of your goals for the sale.

2. Seek Independent Legal Advice: Understand any legal processes that need to be managed, including probate.

3. Talk to Your Real Estate Agent Early: Get a sense of timing, market conditions, and the best approach for preparing the home for sale.

4. Evaluate Maintenance and Presentation: You may not need to spend a lot of money on major renovations. Sometimes, decluttering, simple repairs, and basic staging can give you a much better return.

5. Decide on the Right Time to Market: Your agent will help you understand the best time to sell based on market conditions and your unique situation.

While selling a family home is undoubtedly challenging, having the right team to support you through the process can make a huge difference. At Sarah & Julie Auckland Real Estate Agents, we’ve been helping families with estate sales for years, providing guidance, emotional support, and practical advice every step of the way. We’re here to help you make the right decisions, at the right time, and ensure the home is presented in the best possible way.

As Sarah says:

“We understand the emotional complexity of selling a family home, and we’re committed to guiding you with care and providing sound advice to make this process as smooth as possible. You don’t have to go through this alone—we’re here to support you.”

Additionally, Sarah and Julie have worked closely with Public Trust on estate sales and understand the unique needs involved in selling a property in these circumstances. Their experience working on estate sales provides an extra level of expertise to help you navigate the process seamlessly.

We encourage you to read the reviews on Sarah and Julie’s Google Business Profile, where many of their clients have shared their experiences working with them on estate sales and other property transactions. Many clients have praised Sarah and Julie for their support, empathy, and expert advice during challenging times.

If you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed by the process, don’t hesitate to reach out. Sarah and Julie are here to help guide you through the entire journey with care, experience, and professionalism.

Mount Eden is not just a place to live; it’s a place to eat! The Mount Eden Village is home to some of the best cafes and restaurants in Auckland. For a cozy, classic brunch, Fraser’s Café is a local favorite, known for its hearty meals and welcoming atmosphere. Another staple, Circus Circus Café, has become an institution in the area, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious options for breakfast and lunch. The Garden Shed is a charming and rustic spot that offers fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with a focus on seasonal produce. If you’re in the mood for coffee, RAD Café is highly praised for its rich brews and cozy vibe.

If you want a bit more flair, Pasta & Cuore offers modern Italian dishes that keep locals coming back for more. The Eden Arms, with its elegant décor and delicious meals, is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends or family. For a treat that takes you back to childhood, The Ice Cream Truck on Mount Eden Road delivers a blast from the past with some of the best ice cream in Auckland.

Mount Eden’s local amenities give it an undeniable charm. For over 20 years, the fruit and veggie shop on the corner of Stokes Road and Mount Eden Road has been a local institution. It’s one of those spots where you can always count on the freshest produce and feel a true connection to the community. For anyone who values local produce and quirky, small shops, this stall is an absolute gem.

Nearby, the Mount Eden Village is filled with boutiques, local stores, and independent businesses that add to the neighborhood’s charm. Whether it’s a quick stop at the butcher, the local pharmacy, or the flower shop, the village offers an authentic community experience that makes shopping here a joy.

Mount Eden is a haven for nature lovers, with a variety of parks and green spaces. The iconic Maungawhau / Mount Eden Domain offers panoramic views of Auckland, perfect for a weekend walk or a picnic with family and friends. For families, Potter’s Park is a local gem with playgrounds and open spaces where kids can run around freely. Smaller parks like Essex Reserve provide quiet retreats and are perfect for leisurely walks or reading in the sun.

For those who love to swim, the Mount Eden Swimming Pool provides great facilities for both leisure and fitness.

Mount Eden is also home to a variety of preschools and early childhood education centres to make life easy for young families. Little Wonders Mount Eden offers a nurturing environment for younger children, and The Garden Early Childhood Centre is another highly-rated preschool offering a range of educational activities for toddlers.

For families, Mount Eden is well-served by some of Auckland’s top schools, including:

• Maungawhau Primary School

• Mount Eden Primary School

• Auckland Normal Intermediate School

• Epsom Girls Grammar School

• Auckland Boys Grammar School

Sarah’s intimate knowledge of these schools comes from her own experience growing up in Mount Eden, attending local schools, and raising her own family in the area. Whether you’re looking for a home within a certain school zone or want to learn more about the educational options, Sarah & Julie can guide you every step of the way.

As Sarah Tiplady, co-founder of Auckland Real Estate Agents, shares:

“Many of our clients appreciate Mount Eden real estate for its elegant homes, great school zones, and proximity to the fantastic Mount Eden Village. Real estate in this area traditionally gains value year on year and holds well due to the double grammar zone in any market. This is great for ensuring your investment down the track and long-term capital gain.”

Mount Eden is also home to numerous retirement communities and amenities tailored to older residents. If you’re looking for peace of mind and a comfortable lifestyle, Summerset Mount Eden provides a well-established retirement village with various living options and a friendly community atmosphere. Additionally, the suburb’s access to quality healthcare, shopping, and social activities ensures a fulfilling and connected lifestyle for retirees.

Living in Mount Eden means you have everything you need at your fingertips. From supermarkets and boutique shops to excellent healthcare facilities, the suburb offers unmatched convenience. The area is well-connected with public transport links, making it easy to commute to Auckland’s CBD and surrounding areas, ideal for professionals and retirees alike.

The real estate market in Mount Eden is incredibly diverse, offering a range of properties to suit various lifestyles:

• Established Family Homes: Beautifully maintained, character-filled properties perfect for growing families.

• Brick & Tile Units: These low-maintenance, sturdy homes are ideal for young professionals or downsizers.

• Apartments: Perfect for those seeking a convenient, lock-up-and-leave lifestyle with easy access to the city.

• Family Estates: Spacious homes on generous plots, ideal for those looking for more space and privacy.

• New Builds: Modern properties with the latest in design and efficiency, ideal for those seeking a contemporary home.

Mount Eden’s charm is amplified by its distinctive architecture, from turn-of-the-century bungalows and villas to modern new builds. The area is also known for its tree-lined streets and natural volcanic beauty, with rock walls made from the volcanic rock that has been a part of the landscape for centuries. The Maungawhau volcanic cone is a defining feature of the suburb, adding not only aesthetic value but also historical significance to the area.

Investing in Mount Eden offers promising prospects for capital growth. According to the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), the suburb has consistently demonstrated strong property value appreciation over recent years. This trend reflects Mount Eden’s enduring appeal and its status as a sought-after location for both homeowners and investors. The combination of its rich character homes, excellent amenities, and strategic location contributes to its robust real estate market performance.

At Auckland Real Estate Agents, Sarah & Julie have built an incredible track record in the Mount Eden area. Their deep knowledge of the local market, combined with their hands-on experience, makes them the ideal team to guide you through buying or selling in this sought-after suburb.

Having grown up in Mount Eden and attended local schools, Sarah Tiplady has an intimate understanding of the area, its schools, and its vibrant community. As Sarah shares:

“I have such fond memories of growing up in Mount Eden – it’s where I spent my childhood, went to school, and started my own family. I truly believe it’s one of the best places to live in Auckland. The community is fantastic, the schools are excellent, and the lifestyle is second to none. It’s a pleasure to help people find their perfect home in this area.”

Whether you’re looking for a home within a certain school zone or seeking to sell your property, Sarah & Julie’s insights are invaluable. She’s not just a real estate agent—she’s a local expert who knows the ins and outs of Mount Eden and can help you navigate this thriving suburb.

Additionally having a personalised consultation guides you in presenting your home to the market and achieve a top result. This is all part of the standard appraisal practice with Sarah, Julie and their team.

Professional real estate agent who knows the Auckland market well, such as Sarah and Julie, will be able to give you an updated value of what your property is worth now. This valuation takes into consideration the conditions of the current market and the nuances of your individual property. It is worth noting that real estate appraisals are legally valid for three months, making it a natural starting point if you’re contemplating putting your Auckland property on the market.

These are all very common questions that people ask to understand what their property will sell for in any given market. For your real estate agents to evaluate the value of your home, they must look at the data about your property and also inspect your property. An evaluation of your home must consider factors such as recent comparable sales, the property condition, the cladding, the position, the school zones, and proximity to amenities – and weigh this within the state of the current market.

Having an open and transparent conversation about the value of your home will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence your home’s value in the current market. Not to mention, it’s always best to have a well-informed start to your selling process. It is worth noting that some agents will promise high prices through the selling process and then not be able to deliver on those prices – in the industry, this is called ‘buying the listing’.

Sarah and Julie prefer a direct approach that allows you to make well-informed decisions. Experience has shown them that giving people the best possible realistic appraisal of their property and then exceeding the expectations of the appraisal for the selling process is a much better way of doing business! Nobody likes to feel misled or disappointed, and its one of the things that can give selling agents a bad name.
To find out what your home is worth and avoid frustration, smoke screens and disappointment – contact Sarah and Julie for a free property appraisal.