It’s the season to sell according to the latest Real Estate Institute of WA (REIWA) data which shows houses sold in spring were snatched up much faster than any other time of year.
Jones and Co director Kelly Jones agrees that late Spring, early Summer provide optimum selling conditions.
REIWA figures show that selling a house in WA in spring 2017 took a median of just 38 days, 42 days in 2018 and 39 days in 2019.
Kelly said there were several factors for potential vendors to consider before putting their property on the market, including general market conditions, location, property condition and your personal situation.
“And often vendors spend money on things that buyers place no value on,” she said. “That’s why it’s important to plan and discuss strategy with an experienced agent so you’re abreast of lifestyle and market conditions that might directly impact your sales result.
“A good agent will make you aware of all the pitfalls and give you the best possible advice for getting your home ready for sale.”
Here are some simple checks to prepare your property for market.
Backyard blitz: Mow the lawn, trim the edges, prune and mulch the garden, high pressure-hose the pavers or driveway.
Can the clutter: Make sure your property is neat, tidy and decluttered. Also complete any outstanding maintenance or repairs that might detract from the sale price. There’s nothing worse than a loose door handle or a dripping tap at a home open.
Beige baby: Make sure that your sheets and towels are neutral and conventional. Bold quilts covered in tulips are not everyone’s cup of tea.
Down décor: Too much furniture will make your rooms feel smaller so space it out, or even put some into storage. Remove heavy curtains so the room doesn’t feel dark and dreary and make sure blinds and windows are washed. Removing the flyscreens during home opens will also brighten up the interior considerably.
Kitchen chic: Remove all appliances from the benches, and replace with a brightly laden fruit bowl.
Heaven scent: Eliminate all nasty bathroom and kitchen smells as well as evidence of pets. Dog beds and cat scratching posts should be well hidden. Make sure rubbish bins are emptied and council bins are out of sight and devoid of odours. Steam clean your carpets. Finish off by placing a vase of flowers near your entrance and a candle in your bathroom.
Style counsel: Consider using a professional stylist or property stager. The can be a good investment, particularly for a home open, because it gives buyers an idea of your home’s potential. Small touches can cost as little as $250, but generally property styling costs start about $3000 for a small apartment and about $8000 for a family home. Costs depend on size, location and how much furniture is required.
Pre-inspection inspection: When you’re done, invite your mother-in-law over to give it the once over. Tell her not to hold back.
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