Our Top Seller Tips for a Quick Sale!

by Quanita Chohan • 4 MIN • 853 Words

Our Top Seller Tips for a Quick Sale!

Hire a Knowledgeable, Licensed Real Estate Agent:
I know this sounds simple enough, but many sellers don’t vet the agent they decide to list with. Make sure your agent is registered with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority. (PPRA) and holds a valid license. So, ask for credentials. Select an agent that knows the area, property values, trends, that can guide you through the process. Don't just go with the agent who promises you the most money for your property. Some agents will tell you what you want to hear just to get the mandate now with the hopes of getting you to drop the price in a few weeks. A reputable agent will provide you with a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) of recent sales of similar properties in the area to determine the listing price of the property.

Mandates, to Sign or not to Sign:
Legally estate agents are not allowed to market a property without the consent of the legal owner of the property and therefore will request that you sign a mandate. Before deciding on the type and duration of the mandate, consider the agents marketing plan, their track record and ask for references or testimonials from previous sellers. Ensure that the agent discusses the T & C’s of the mandate with you before you sign. Never sign blank or incomplete documents.

Price Your Home Right from the Start:
The first 4 to 6 weeks on the market is vital to generate interest and if your home is overpriced it won’t attract any attention from potential buyers. Most sellers think, lets listing higher so we have some room to negotiate, but buyers are more clued up about property values, they do their homework and will immediately notice when a house is priced too high. The reality is that when buyers feel the property is overpriced, they don’t even bother making an offer. Once your property is in the market too long, it becomes over exposed and makes other properties look more attractive to buyers.

Disclose all Property Defects:
You are required by law to disclose all know defects, latent (hidden) and patent (visible). If a seller purposely fails to disclose serious property defects to the buyer and it can be proved that the seller was aware of the problem, the buyer can demand compensation, recourse from the seller or even take legal action against the seller for non-disclosure. When listing your home, your agent will complete a mandatory disclosure document with you. Ensure you disclose roof leaks, water damage, mould or rising damp, structural issues, leaking taps, items not working, etc.

Enhance Curb Appeal:
Most buyers first drive past a potential property to determine if it’s worth their while to set up a viewing, so the first impression is important. Keep your yard neat and tidy, touch up on exterior paint, gutters, and fascia boards. Remove refuse, pick up unnecessary items that are laying around.

Declutter and Depersonalize:
Remove excess clutter from kitchen counters, living areas and rooms to make your home appear more spacious. Overfull and cluttered areas make the spaces appear smaller than they really are and look untidy which isn’t at all appealing to potential buyers. Put away personal items as the goal is to have the buyer envision themselves living in the space.

Complete Necessary Repairs:
A well maintained home gives buyers confidence in the overall condition. So, fix the leaking taps and toilets, replace cracked windows, repaint areas where paint is peeling, do touch ups where necessary to improve the overall look of your property and create a lasting impression. Most buyers don’t want to tackle repairs and will opt for the house with the lease amount of repair needed unless they opt for a fixer upper at a reduced price.

Be Flexible with Showings:
I know having your property in the market can be difficult with buyers wanting to view all hours but be flexible. Don’t turn away prospective buyer viewing requests unless you absolutely cannot make it cos you never know, they could be the one! I am not saying allow anyone in and at any time, for your safety, always ensure that buyers work through your agent who will make an appointment to view and show the property.

Negotiate wisely:
There’s a saying, that your first offer is sometimes your best offer but that doesn’t mean you should accept a ridiculous offer. When you get your first offer, don’t just decline, and walk away, consider the terms and conditions, and make a counteroffer and keep the negotiations open.

Remember, a well-prepared and well-presented home is more likely to sell quickly and at a favourable price. If you need assistance with putting your home in the market in Welkom, don't hesitate to contact Q Prop. Complete the contact form under the Seller's tab on our website and we will contact you.

Related Articles:

Mandates Explained

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The Impact of Home Maintenance on Resale Value

Avoiding Double Commission Disputes: A Seller's Guide

Top Reasons Why Your Home Isn’t Selling!

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