Want to sell your property?

Irrespective of whether you're selling to upgrade, downgrade, move cities or simply because you want to, the goal is always to sell the property at the highest possible price in the shortest possible time. 

"When we talk about the highest possible price we mean in relation to the value or the property in question and in line with the market average of the area," says Giel Viljoen, Principal at Leapfrog Stellenbosch. 

Make sure to tick the three boxes below and you're almost guaranteed a swift sale. 

Box 1: The right price

A property that is priced right the first time is likely to sell fast. 

The right price is the number you arrive at once the following have been considered:

• The condition of the property

• The location

• The average price similar properties sold for in the area

• The expectations of the seller. 

Ultimately the market determines the price. "The forces of supply and demand at a given time in a given location will have a far bigger impact of what a buyers is willing to pay than merely the price the seller wants to sell for," Viljoen explains. 

Box 2: A good look

Sellers want to make sure the property puts its best foot forward for the market. People buyers need to be able to imagine the space as their own, which means sellers need to "neutralise the property". Viljoen offers the following tips: 

• Make sure the everything is neat and clean 

• Hide the clutter - or better still, use this as motivation to discard or donate things

• Let natural light in by opening blinds and curtains - a light space is an inviting space

• Light a scented candle or brew a pot of coffee - the right scent can be very inviting

Box 3: An experienced professional

Selling a property can be complex and stressful. Work with a professional property advisor to ensure the place sells at the right price and in the shortest possible time. The easiest way to navigate this when selling your property is to work with a professional. Ensure the agent you're using is registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB) and has a current Fidelity Fund Certificate, or ask for references.