Selling your property is known to be one of the most stressful times of your life, so here are five common problems that may happen to you, and how to overcome them.
More properties for sale than buyers
One simple solution is to conduct your own research, looking at what properties are already for sale close to you that are either similar or identical to yours. Real estate markets around the world are very price sensitive, so you need to be realistic on what you are asking. Other properties currently for sale, plus your preferred selling timescales, will dictate this.
An established and qualified estate agent will be able to advise you.
I have a tenant living in the property
If a tenant is currently living in your property it is best to speak to them before any marketing begins. Be transparent from the start and tell them your intentions. Make sure they understand there is no pressure for them to move out immediately, and that once a buyer is found a two-month notice period will be given.
It can be useful to incentivize your tenant for things like access for viewings, and keeping the property tidy and ready to be viewed.
Maybe you can offer to refund half a month’s rent if they comply when the property is sold. This will help get the tenant on board with the process and keep the property ready for viewing at all times.
I’m nervous about doing the viewings
You are not alone. Many people get nervous about showing prospective buyers around their property. The best way is to allow a professional real estate agent to do this for you. Estate agents are well-rehearsed and will know how to actively ‘sell’ the property and its lifestyle potential.
Feedback is vital when you are selling a property, but buyers can be reluctant to reveal their true thoughts to a homeowner. It’s much easier for them to be honest with an agent who will be able to identify what is holding them back from committing to your property.
I need a quick sale
Sellers may require a quick sale for a variety of reasons, but whatever your specific needs there are a few handy guidelines to follow. You’ve got to be realistic on price and there needs to be ‘clear blue water’ in terms of price and those similar homes in your area.
You’ve also got to make sure the property is presented to its very best, both inside and out, as well as ensuring there is 100 percent access to the property for viewings.
Ensure your real estate agent has a key to the property, plus permission to access at short-notice so viewings can be organized at speed and no potential opportunities are missed.
Think about an ‘open day’ to encourage a number of viewings in a short timeframe. These can be very effective, sometimes generating 20 or more viewings in just one day.
I don’t know which estate agent to choose
Identify which agents operate in he area where you are selling your property and do careful research about them. Be mindful that not all estate agents are the same, and levels of service offered will vary dramatically, so don’t make your choice based on price alone.
It’s also useful to ask for reviews and testimonials from other clients as these will give you valuable feedback, and an indication of how their service will serve you.
Importantly make sure you visit the office and meet your shortlist of agents in person. They will be responsible for selling what is possibly one of your biggest assets, and you are likely to be working alongside them for many weeks.
It is vital you are able to communicate with them comfortably and have confidence in their commitment so that your desired outcome of selling your property can be achieved effectively, efficiently and with ease.
