WARM UP WINTER BUYERS

Selling your home can be nerve-racking, and with the number of days properties are on the market having lengthened this year, First National Real Estate Lakeshores has some simple tips to make sure your property stays on the boil during winter, and reduce any associated stress.

“The value of a property is mainly determined by its location, size and suitability to the buyer,” First National Real Estate Lakeshores principal Mark Millington, said.

“But there are things that a seller can do to maximise the value of the property, particularly in terms of its presentation, even if the weather is cold and things look a bit dull and gray.

“I mean, when someone wants to impress, they go all out to make themselves look and sound good, no matter what the weather is doing – it’s no different with the property you want to sell.

“It’s all about making a good impression and while it’s true that there will be fewer buyers in winter, it also means there will be less competition and less stock.”

According to Mark Millington the most important tip is to appoint a well-respected, reputable and trustworthy real estate agent.

“Agents have a duty to achieve the best price for their clients, keep their finger on the pulse of the market and keep their clients educated and informed about current market dynamics,” Mark Millington said.

“We are encouraging our agents to think creatively and strategically to shorten the number of days listings are on the market and maximise the price of their clients’ properties, including updating photography, remaining positive and upbeat, using all the leading edge marketing tools such as social media and buyer matching technologies, to make sure everything is being done to get the seller the best achievable price.

“Using an agent also offers security, acting as a barrier or deterrent to buyers who are not really serious about the property or who wish to make unrealistic offers for the property.  Most of all, many First National agents offer the additional protection of ISO 9001 Quality Assurance accreditation.”

Winter makes staging your home, the concept of showcasing its best, more important to securing top value for your property.  Mark Millington says putting in a little effort will make the world of difference.

“A well-presented house is likely to achieve its selling price more readily than an untidy, unsightly and unkempt property that has obviously not been well-cared for or maintained,” Mark Millington said.

“That’s why it’s important to make sure the owner does everything they can to make the property look good and that it is always presented in as pristine condition as possible.”

Here are a few things that Mark Millington says can be easily undertaken and are affordable:

• Paint a few feature walls to create visual impact.  Consider using the services of an interior decorator for a quick consultation and some ideas.
• Add a few personal touches like family photos and memorabilia around the place to give that ‘homey’ feel
• Keep lights on during inspections to brighten the atmosphere and make sure curtains, shutters and blinds are open – letting in as much natural light as possible as well as make rooms feel much more spacious.
• Make sure everything is clean including windows, both inside and out, and light fittings.
• Place some flowers in vases to liven things up a bit, and even consider spraying some quality fragrance around (but not too much!)
• Turn on heaters or light fires so that the temperature inside the home is comfortable, inviting the buyer to linger longer, especially on cold days.

Mark Millington said another key tip is that sellers should always try to keep in mind who they are selling to, just like any other product that is for sale.

“At the end of the day, the seller should put themselves in the place of the buyer, think about what would they look for and make sure their home delivers as best as it can,” Mark Millington said.

“That’s what we do here at First National Real Estate Lakeshores. We think of our clients and put them first, because that’s what we would like if we were their clients.”

For further information contact Mark Milligton, First National Real Estate Lakeshores, on 02 4359 1555.