FAQ's for the first-time property seller
Category Home for sale tips
Selling property can be an emotional and daunting experience, especially if you are doing it for the first time, says Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Christie's International Real Estate. You want to get the best price for your property, and you want to ensure that your most valuable asset is in good hands. From choosing the right time to sell, to using the correct real estate agent, to doing touch-ups to ensure you get the best return on investment, these are all questions that need to be answered before starting the selling process.
There are various decisions that sellers are faced with throughout the process, but the FAQ's below should provide you with all the information you need to help you along.
Q: When is the ideal time to sell?
A: This is probably one of the most frequently asked questions sellers ask when thinking about selling. And the answer is simple: the right time to sell is when you, as a homeowner, are ready to sell. Speak to a real estate agency, even if you are unsure of whether you're wanting to sell. Any real estate agent worth their salt with avail themselves to offer advice but will not pressure you into selling.
Q: Should I hire a real estate agent
A: Absolutely! It is essential that you have a trusted agent at your side throughout the process. An agent will be able to guide you every step of the way which takes a lot, if not all, of the guesswork out of it. The agent you choose will be the go-to person for advice and they should have all the information and tools ready in order to get the best result from the sale. As a seller, you need to be picky with the agency you choose. You need an agent who is trustworthy, transparent and communicative - these are all traits that are imperative when dealing with what is your most valuable asset.
Q: How should I price my home?
A: Your real estate agent will do a home valuation, along with a market value analysis to determine a competitive and fair selling price. In today's market, it is imperative that you price your home realistically in order to make a sale.
Q: Do I need to do an entire home facelift in order to get my home sold?
A: Not at all. Minor home improvements might add value to the sale, but it does not make or break it. If you are going to be doing these touch-ups, focus on the kitchen and the bathroom as these are the two most frequently used and commented-upon room in any house. Below are a few tips on how to spruce up these to areas in a cost-effective way.
Kitchen:
- Paint your cabinet doors or consider replacing the doors
- Consider re-tiling your kitchen for that fresh and uplifting look
- Greeff says that ''there's just something about new doors, handles and stainless-steel appliances that excite people'' so making these minor, somewhat inexpensive changes will make the world of difference''.
Bathroom:
- A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the bathroom and it does not have to cost a lot
- Adjusting the pressure of the shower
- Adding stainless-steel taps will give it a classy, upmarket look and feel
Q: How can I help during the selling process?
A: One of the joys of hiring an agent is that all the admin is taken care of. All you have to focus on is being your home's ambassador. A lot of buyers decide to make an offer based on a personal connection they feel towards a property and that's where you come in. When your agent hosts Show Days, it is important that you share personal antidotes for them to relay to potential buyers. You are in the best position to share insights on what owning and living on the property is like which will ultimately help buyers to establish that emotional connection.
Q: What happens after I accept an offer?
A: Even though you have accepted an offer and the transaction is now with the conveyancing attorneys, it's not over yet. The property is still yours until the transfer is complete so that means all the responsibilities that come with the property i.e. maintenance, still falls on you. You, as the seller, need to ensure that the property is insured, in good condition and is ready for the new owner.
Whatever your reasons are for wanting to sell your home, it's important that you are prepared for the sales process. Selling your home can be both emotional and stressful, especially for a first-time home seller. Having your questions answered and having a trusted agent at your side, can make this process smooth sailing.
Author: Greeff
