So you’ve decided to sell…what next?
It’s a big decision to sell a property, and it marks the start of a journey that’s exciting, but can also feel a touch overwhelming.
The key lies in knowing exactly what’s involved after you decide to sell, and then breaking it down into simple steps.
Call in the agents
Chances are you have some idea of the real estate agents who operate within your local marketplace, and there might be a few who stand out from the crowd.
Once you’ve made the decision to sell, invite a shortlist of these agents to come and appraise your property.
This appraisal will give you a good idea of what each agent believes the property is worth and should also offer an insight into how they would market your property for sale.
Select an agent
Now you’ve met with each of the agents, it’s time to make a decision as to who you believe is the right person to sell your property.
This agent should be someone you feel you can work with, who you trust, and who you believe will look after your interests.
Importantly, they should be someone who will give you honest feedback and professional advice, allowing you to make informed and confident decisions.
Prepare the property
With your agent appointed, attention turns to preparing the property for sale and this can take anywhere from one week to six weeks or longer, depending on what needs to be done.
As a minimum the property should look tidy and clutter free, but your agent may also have suggestions to help you maximise the home’s value.
This might include:
- Tending to any repairs
- Tidying the garden
- A refresh of interior paint
- Staging
- And more
You can learn more about preparing your property for sale here.
Method of sale
When you selected your agent they would have offered their opinion on the best way to sell your property – whether that’s auction, private treaty, or open for offers.
Now is the time to decide on that method of sale once and for all. You can gain more of an insight into each sales method and their pros and cons here.
The sales campaign
Once the property is in tip top condition, the agent can commence the sales campaign.
This includes having the property photographed, listing it on the property portals, placing any advertising, and creating social media campaigns.
The aim here is to position the property in front of as many potential buyers as possible in a bid to generate interest.
Open homes
One of the most important parts of the sales campaign is open homes, where people come through and inspect the property in person.
These open homes can be private viewings or open to the public, but either way, they allow potential buyers to walk through the property and envisage themselves owning the home.
Open homes are the chance for your property to really put its best foot forward.
Offers and sale
Between advertising and open homes, your property should be generating interest and offers from potential buyers.
This is the stage where a great agent comes into their own, negotiating with interested parties to get a sale across the line at a price you are happy with.
Once an offer has been accepted and formalised in the contract of sale, the countdown commences until settlement and sale.
