Selling your home is a big decision, whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or making a change. With so many things to consider, it’s not surprising many homeowners find the process overwhelming. However, with the right preparation and guidance from experts, selling your home can be rewarding. To help you prepare for your home selling journey, we’ve put together 10 practical tips that will make your home more appealing to buyers, and ensure you’re ready for a successful sale.
1. Understand the current market
Before listing your home for sale, research the local property market to help set realistic expectations. Explore current market trends, average sale prices, and how long properties are taking to sell. A local real estate agent can provide useful insights and help you decide on the best time to list your home.
2. Price your home right
Setting the right sale price is one of your most important decisions. Price too high and you could scare away potential buyers, price too low and you could miss out on potential profits.
- Use free online resources like those offered by Harcourts which uses local property listing prices and recent sales data to provide a free market appraisal.
- Get a property value estimate from an expert property appraiser to find out what your home is worth in the current market.
- Consult with a local real estate agent to get valuable insights into setting a realistic sales price.
3. Prepare your home for sale
First impressions count, so make sure your home is clean, decluttered, and well-maintained before showing it to potential buyers. Well-presented homes tend to sell quicker and often for a higher price. Here are some simple ways you can prepare:
- Fix minor repairs like leaky taps or broken door handles.
- Consider a fresh coat of paint to brighten up the space.
- Clean windows and carpets, and make sure the garden is tidy.
- Declutter rooms to make them feel more spacious and welcoming.
4. Choose the right real estate agent
A good real estate agent makes all the difference when it comes to selling your home. Look for an agent with a strong track record in your local area. They should understand the market, have excellent communication skills, and be someone you feel comfortable working with. Don't hesitate to interview a few agents before making your choice.
5. Create an effective marketing plan
Marketing your home effectively is essential to attracting potential buyers. Your real estate agent will help you create a marketing plan that could include:
- Professional photography to showcase your home in its best light.
- A strong online presence through real estate websites and social media.
- Printed materials such as brochures or flyers.
- Hosting open homes or private viewings.
6. Understand legal requirements
There are several legal steps you’ll need to follow when selling your home, so it’s a good idea to hire a conveyancer or solicitor to help with the paperwork. They can ensure everything is legally compliant and help you avoid delays or problems during the sale process.
7. Prepare for open homes and inspections
Be ready for potential buyers to visit your home by ensuring your home is clean and tidy at all times, removing personal items to help buyers picture themselves living in your home, and being flexible with inspection times to accommodate as many buyers as possible.
8. Be ready to negotiate offers
There’s more to think about than just price when you receive an offer: The buyer’s conditions, financing and settlement date are also important factors to consider. Work with your real estate agent to negotiate an offer that’s acceptable to you.
9. Understand settlement
Once you accept an offer, the settlement process begins and the property is legally transferred from you to the buyer. During this time, your conveyancer will handle the paperwork, make sure all legal and financial requirements are met, and you’ll get ready to move out by the agreed-upon settlement date.
10. Plan your next move
Selling your home is just the first step and it’s important to have a clear plan for your next steps. If you’re thinking about selling your home and need advice on the best approach, reach out to Mortgage Express for expert financial advice and to Harcourts to find an agent near you. Our team of mortgage brokers can help ensure your finances are in order and help you plan a strategy for your future home needs.
Excerpted from https://harcourts.net/au/resources/news-and-media/top-ten-tips-for-first-time-sellers
While all care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, no warranty is given as to the accuracy of the information and no responsibility is taken by Finservice Pty Ltd (Mortgage Express) for any errors or omissions. This publication does not constitute personalised financial advice. It may not be relevant to individual circumstances. Nothing in this publication is, or should be taken as, an offer, invitation, or recommendation to buy, sell, or retain any investment in or make any deposit with any person. You should seek professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters dealt within this publication. A Disclosure Statement is available on request and free of charge.
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