Tips For A Successful Sale

Legal Documents

Make sure that your contract for sale has been prepared professionally by a solicitor or conveyancer and that it is up to date

Price

Be realistic about the price. Find out as much as you can from agents and local sales. Attend auctions, open houses and judge how these properties compare to yours

Inclusions

When compiling your contract for sale, make sure that everything you want to include in the sale (ie. curtains, dishwasher etc) is listed in the contract. This ensures that there is no potential for conflict at a later date

Photographs

When taking your photos make sure they are clear and sharp. Try taking several from the one angle on each shot before settling for the final product. You may wish to hire a small lighting rig to enhance rooms that are naturally dark. It is better to have 5 or 6 good shots of the main property features to entice prospective purchasers rather than have a shot of every aspect of the home. Note that buyers will judge your property by the photos uploaded. Consider using a professional photographer for best results

Clean

Whilst this sounds obvious, first impressions count. A dirty home may sell, however that same home in a clean condition will attract a superior opening offer. Clean windows and remove any cobwebs and dust

De-clutter

Homes are often filled with ornaments, keepsakes or over furnished. Be objective and remove anything that is likely to hinder a potential sale. Personal items can be moved to a storage facility.

Pets

Homes with pets often have a ‘smell’ associated with the pet. As this is not for everyone consider relocating your pets on a temporary basis especially around ‘Open House’ viewing times. A thorough clean of furnishings is a good way of eliminating any remaining odours

Repairs

Homes in need of minor repairs should be fixed up prior to placing on the market as this will only encourage low offers. Touch up paintwork and make any minor repairs

Lawns

Lawns should be mowed and garden beds weeded regularly during the marketing campaign as some buyers may conduct a ‘drive by’ inspection outside of the “Open House’ inspection times. Similarly, consider how your house looks at night as the same applies. Check that all external lights are working and the street presence of your property is looking 100% day or night

Swimming Pools

Swimming pools should be cleaned and pool equipment and pool toys placed out of sight

Open Homes

If presenting the “Open Home’ yourself, don’t over do it. The house will sell itself if presented and priced correctly. Allow the potential purchasers some space, don’t be over attentive. Answer any questions as honestly and concisely as possible

Pest & Building Inspection

Purchasers usually require a pest and building inspection report to highlight any defects in the property. You should consider commissioning this yourself as it will direct you to any issues that may require attention. Once fixed up you can provide both the report and documented evidence of any repairs to the potential purchaser which will speed up the process