Moving house can often be a long and frustrating process, and a lot of the time you may be relying on others further down the chain to push things along.
We also know that it can be stressful if you need to move for a particular reason, for example, if you are relocating for a job, or upsizing because your family is growing.
But in this article, we look at the things, in your control, that you can do to help your property sell quickly.
According to figures, on average, a house takes 60 to 75 days to sell. However, this can vary depending on demand, the type of property you are selling and the location. In sought-after areas, a property may sell much quicker, meanwhile, properties much higher in value may take a bit longer.
Oakwood Property Solicitors works to ensure the house sale process is as quick, efficient and stress-free as possible.
Estate agent
Choosing the right estate agent can be crucial to a quick and efficient house sale. Do your research to see which agent specialises in your type of property/area and what marketing materials they are using to show off your home.
The more people that can visit your property up for sale online, the more chance that it will sell quickly. Also, make sure that your property is being showcased in the best light.
Does the agent use online videos to draw in potential buyers? Could they give your property a spotlight on their website to encourage viewers? These are all questions to ask.
Price
As well as choosing the right estate agent for their local knowledge and marketing, you need to ensure they price your property right.
Remember, in most cases, the estate agent will get a fee based on the sale price, and this could encourage them to push the price up – resulting in a longer time sale time. See what other similar properties are marketed at, to ensure your property is competitive in the market.
Viewings
Viewings are essential to selling a property, and being flexible and allowing potential buyers to view your property around their own schedules can be beneficial.
For example, offering evening viewings after work, or an open house at a weekend can give more people the chance to look around – and put an offer in.
Home-staging
Viewings are essential to sell most homes – but also making your property look good is too. Show off your property in the best light. Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure your house is presentable for viewings:
- Declutter & clean – this will make your property appeal more spacious and allow the viewer to see the space – rather than your belongings!
- Add fresh flowers & plants – make your property feel looked after by adding a touch of nature. Place a vase of fresh flowers on the coffee table or a potted plant in an empty corner to give it that extra touch.
- Neutral colour schemes – Neutral colours can be more appealing to viewers as it gives them a blank canvas to start with. Bold colours and patterns can be off-putting, and may also make a space feel smaller.
- Tidy garden/cut grass – A lot of the time, the front garden is the first thing a viewer sees. Make sure you give off a good impression by cutting the grass, tidying away any mess or pulling up them weeds! Think about adding a hanging basket or potted plant so it looks well-looked-after
- Furniture arrangements – The way furniture is placed can affect how a space feels. Make sure it is arranged to make the property feel spacious, for example, putting a sofa in the middle of the room might make it feel smaller than if it was placed against a wall. Also, get rid of any furniture that is not used – for example an empty bookcase or wall unit.
Kerb appeal
Ensure your property looks appealing from the outside. Give the window panes and front door a paint, and tidy up the flower beds. Get rid of any pet poop in the garden, or chop down any unruly plants to make the property look well-presented.
Co-operate
To ensure your property is sold and completed as quickly as possible, make sure you co-operate with your estate agent and solicitor. By sending over required documents promptly, or replying to e-mails quickly can make sure the sale goes through as quickly as possible.
Further reading
Selling – Oakwood Property Solicitors
WHAT TO DO NEXT
To make a start on the next step in your property journey, get in touch today to book a consultation with a member of our team. Call us on 0113 218 5727 to find out how we can help you.
