Get the best estate agent you can Get valuations from three or more agents before deciding on the one you want to instruct. Look at properties they’ve sold recently – is the agency getting the asking price? Have a look at the agents’ websites – are they ranking well on Google? Are they easy to navigate? These things make a difference, especially during turbulent economic times.
Make sure the brochure looks top-notch
You need good, heavy, preferably glossy card that’s A3 at least. You need a floor plan, several good photos and a thorough description of the area and its amenities. You also need to make sure that these brochures are ready before you hit the market. – Be available, and make sure your house is always ready Buyers get frustrated by vendors who are picky about times. If you can’t be there for the viewing, get your agent to do it, and vice-versa. Some buyers prefer the vendor to be out, so nip to the shops or take the dog out.
Make it an open-house
It’s unusual in Britain, but works well elsewhere in Europe and beyond. Set up a two-hour period during which everyone’s welcome to come over for coffee and take a good look around. Get your agent to issue personal invitations to house-seekers and make sure there’s extra staff members on hand to deal with enquiries. This kind of technique can lead to more offers.
Get great photos
Quality photos of your house and garden are essential. Don’t let your agent list your property until these images are ready, as a listing with no photos, or just one of the outside, are an instant turn-off. If your furnishings are a bit tired, put them in storage while you’re on the market and hire spanking new furniture. It really does make a difference when people walk into a well-kept room. You can also de-clutter and put things in storage until your unpack them for your new abode.
Make sure the house is in perfect condition
If there are any DIY tasks that have been putting off for a few months then now is the time to get them done! Buyers will either not want your property, or they’ll be looking to chisel a few grand off the price here and there.
Organised your movements
One in three house sales falls through, so make sure you have all your ducks lined up in a row! Get a conveyancer ready to take care of the legal side of things, and arrange a mortgage in principle before you even get an offer! Delays often cause buyers to fret and pull out, or see a property that they like more. Keep the momentum up!
Be ready to go at short notice
If the buyer has a move-in date in mind, do your best to stick to it. You’ve sold up but your new place isn’t ready yet? No problem – move into rented accommodation for a while. It’s a tough market out there, and rather than face the loss of a hard-won sale, take your money and run!
