When it comes to selling property in Mijas Costa, first impressions are everything.
According to Keith from Target Property Spain, most buyers make an emotional decision about a home within ten seconds of stepping through the door. Those few moments can determine whether they start imagining life there — or quietly cross it off their list.
Many sellers focus on price, location, and square metres, but overlook something just as powerful: how a home feels.
Here are Keith’s Top 3 Things Buyers Notice Instantly — and how to make those first 10 seconds count.
☀️ 1. Light and Air
Buyers instantly respond to light and space — often without realising it.
Keith advises homeowners to open blinds, pull back curtains, and switch on warm lighting before every viewing.
“Natural light is part of the dream people buy into when they move to the Costa del Sol,” he says. “That Mediterranean glow creates an immediate sense of warmth and openness.”
If a room lacks sunlight, using warm-toned bulbs instead of cool white can make the atmosphere much more inviting. Small details like this can transform the energy of a space.
🌿 2. Smell and Sound
Scent and sound play a huge role in shaping a buyer’s first impression.
Strong air fresheners or artificial scents can be off-putting, while a neutral, freshly aired home feels comfortable and genuine.
Keith also recommends keeping things quiet during viewings.
“Silence sells,” he explains. “Turn off the washing machine, TV, or extractor fan — buyers need to imagine their own life in the property, not hear someone else’s.”
A little background music can work if it suits the mood, but subtlety is key.
🪴 3. Flow and Feeling
Once buyers have taken in the light, air, and atmosphere, they begin to sense how the home flows.
If they have to dodge clutter, squeeze past furniture, or step over shoes, it can break that emotional connection.
Keith suggests walking through the home just before a viewing as if seeing it for the first time.
“What’s the first thing that catches your eye?” he asks. “Is there a clear view to your best feature — like the terrace, pool, or sea view? Make sure that’s what they see first when the door opens.”
Creating a natural flow allows buyers to imagine their daily routine unfolding seamlessly in the space.
Final Thought
Selling a home on the Costa del Sol isn’t just about features — it’s about feelings.
If buyers feel at ease and inspired within those first few seconds, the chances of securing an offer rise dramatically.
These simple, low-cost adjustments can make a powerful difference in how a property is perceived.
For homeowners considering selling their property in Mijas Costa, Keith and the team at Target Property Spain offer professional advice and tailored marketing strategies designed to attract serious, qualified buyers from around the world.
📞 Contact Target Property Spain to learn how to prepare your home for sale — or follow for more real estate tips and local insights from Mijas Costa.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I prepare my home for a viewing in Spain?
Preparation starts with light, cleanliness, and flow. Open curtains, declutter every room, and make sure your home smells fresh. Remove personal items so buyers can picture themselves living there. A few small touches — such as plants, cushions, and natural light — can make a big impact.
2. What makes buyers fall in love with a property?
Emotion. Buyers fall in love when a home feels bright, calm, and easy to imagine living in. They’re drawn to properties that tell a story — from a welcoming entrance to a clear view of the terrace or pool. A comfortable, well-presented space creates that instant connection.
3. How long do buyers spend deciding if they like a home?
Research shows most buyers form their opinion within the first ten seconds of entering. That’s why presentation and atmosphere matter more than ever — the first impression often decides whether they make an offer or move on.
4. What’s the biggest mistake sellers make during viewings?
Overlooking the small sensory details. Many owners focus on features or price but forget about how their home smells, sounds, and feels. A noisy air-con unit, strong air freshener, or cluttered hallway can undo all the hard work of marketing.
5. Should I attend the viewing myself?
It’s usually best to let your estate agent handle it. Buyers tend to speak more openly when the owner isn’t present, allowing the agent to gauge genuine feedback and address questions without pressure.
6. How can Target Property Spain help me sell faster?
Target Property Spain specialises in helping expat homeowners in Mijas Costa present, market, and sell their properties efficiently. The team combines professional photography, international buyer reach, and local expertise to secure faster sales — often at higher prices.