Tips for first-time home sellers

Selling property can be daunting, more so when you are doing it for the first time.

But the process doesn’t have stressful or scary. Harry Hattingh, Principal Agent at Leadhome, said that even though selling your property is complicated, it follows a fairly predictable process that any reputable agent should be able to explain, to put your mind at ease.

He added that the very best agents are transparent about the process from the beginning and guide sellers every step of the way – taking much of the guesswork and nasty surprises out of it.

Timing

Many novice sellers are unsure if they are actually ready to sell, or if it is the right time. These first-time jitters are normal. The most important thing to realise is that you’re ready to sell when you are, and that moment when you are ready is the right time.

Be picky

Sellers should do their homework before they choose an agency, and select one that is trustworthy, communicative and responsive. Visiting the social media pages of agencies, and perhaps HelloPeter, and reading what other clients thought of the service they offered is a good way to gauge what to expect.

Fix material defects

There may be things about your home that you, as the owner, may have tolerated that you worry might put off potential buyers. It could be anything, from chipped, peeling paint to the quality of some of the finishings. Sellers should rely on the wisdom of their agents to decide what on the property is a material defect and should be fixed, what additional renovation may add value, and what isn’t worth overhauling.

Commit fully

You have to commit yourself to the process once you do decide to sell. The first month or so after the property goes on the market is the most critical. As a seller, you have to be prepared to make the property available for viewing whenever a potential buyer would like to see it.

Be your property’s ambassador

Many buyers decide to make an offer based on the personal connection they make with the property. This is why it is important for sellers to show the property themselves. As the seller, you know the property best and are probably the best positioned to offer potential buyers insights on what owning and living on the property is like and establishing that all-important emotional connection.

It’s not over until the transfer is completed

The property and all the responsibilities that come with it remain yours until the transfer is complete. This includes keeping the property insured, in good condition and ready to be handed over to the buyer on transfer day.

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