Selling your home: what to do, and not to do

There are some basic actions to take when you want to sell your home - and while we don't want to hammer on about tidiness, mowing the lawn, cleaning the bathroom until it shines, removing clutter, etc, etc - these are pretty much the rules that everyone knows. And of course, sorting out those pesky compliance certificates.

However, there are some extra ideas you can add to the mix when you decide to sell your house. These pointers may be somewhat off the normal route of sales procedures, but many people will value honesty and openness rather than, for instance, an attempt at scrupulous neatness.

Choose the agent who understands what's valuable about your home

Choose an experienced agent who has been around in the industry for some years. Proven success is one thing, but a canny eye for detail and a strong sense of empathy with a prospective buyer are equally important. You could also get the agent to undertake a competitive analysis with regard to competing prices of other houses for sale in your area. The sole mandate is really up to you - but get more than one evaluation to begin with, and make a final decision in your own time. Getting your price is another choice you can make. Your agent will advise you on what's best for the area, but if you are prepared to wait for better days, that's up to you.

Don't paper over the cracks

While highlighting the good points of your home, it may work in your favour to honestly disclose defects as well. Renovations are both time-consuming and costly. Don't leave obvious flaws, but at the same time don't to half-baked fixes. Be honest about improvements you would have liked, and talk warmly about your dreams for the house that you now have to sell. Be prepared to negotiate a fair price, taking into account that there may be a number of upgrades that would improve the house; leave the decisions about those potential undertakings to the new homeowner.

Don't underestimate the value of show days

This is not something every seller likes - or gives much thought to. While you may not like the idea of strangers invading your space, it's sometimes helpful to allow a stream of visitors to view your home; at least one may make a serious offer. Sprucing up for a showing is good, but it's also good to show your house as a lived-in home - making it look like a magazine article may be too clinical, too austere. Aim for clearing a path, but keep the homeliness. Nowadays show houses must be conducted according to the prevailing Covid-19 protocols and preparing a decent video to facilitate online viewings is not a bad idea.

Consider all the offers, even those that are below your asking price

Sometimes it's those buyers who offer the bargain price who are wanting to move with some keenness and may be prepared to negotiate up rather than down. Always consider what they are looking for, and how your house can add value to their list of requirements.

Get a home inspection ahead of time

A pre-sale home inspection can be a wise upfront investment, but it's optional. It's a good way to find clarity on issues that may impact your sale. In this way, you might identify areas that require some attention you hadn't noticed before, especially structural or mechanical issues that might need addressing. Then before you put your house on the market, you'll have time to undertake the necessary repairs. Then once it hits the market, it's ready to go - and buyers will know that you have done what you consider as enough before the sale, and you'll not be pushed into further renovations.

Don't waste money on renovations

Many people feel the urge to repaint, repair, and revise. None of which may persuade a buyer, and none of which may be what a new owner actually wants - they will have their own vision in mind. It doesn't make sense to renovate the kitchen if a potential buyer wants to rip everything out and redo it in a different style. Very often buyers prefer things to be left as they are, and the opportunity to implement their own innovations.

The old kitchen/bathroom concerns

They say that a new bathroom and kitchen will sell a house no matter the condition the rest of the property may be in. But resist the urge. Re-spray bathroom tiles if you like, replace kitchen cupboards doors. These cost-efficient upgrades will not necessarily influence a buyer's vision but may persuade a purchase based on the general appearance of the upgrades. Make improvements you think may be helpful, but don't break the bank. New buyers are planning to chuck out the old tiles and the marble backsplash and do their own thing.

Get professional photos

Most sellers forget this aspect and how important it is. That's why you need a canny agent to work with you. They will schedule a photoshoot to capture the best features of your home. High-quality marketing photos are critical; maximising your home's online appeal can make the difference between a quick sale or nothing, so attractive photos can really pay off.

And finally, don't be negative

Don't apologise for your house. Be honest about flaws, but don't run down the value of the house. Rather highlight issues and talk about how long you have lived there and how you love your home. Mention all the convenient aspects of living there - either close to shops or the park or schools. Talk about the kindly neighbours, show the space available for additions, talk about the possibilities of opening up space with French doors, etc, etc. Your obvious happiness of just living in your comfortable, well-loved home is a powerful selling point.

Leapfrog Property Group

Leapfrog Property Group offers a fresh and innovative approach to buying, selling, renting and property investments, ensuring the best property deals for clients across South Africa. Our agents are qualified, trained, experienced; our approach is bold and spirited, driven by heart, generosity, and honesty. It is our mission to advise,  eliminate obstacles and save you unnecessary expenses. Trust is our watchword. And value our motto. Armed with our combined credentials, we are the bright face of excellence in the South African market.