Sellers Guide

If you are planning to sell, here are a few pointers to help you achieve the best price and maximise the chances of a sale:

1. Make a plan:  It’s worth thinking ahead and planning out your time scale, if possible. This gives us, as agent, ample time to organise photographs, floor plans and the EPC. It’s also important if you’re planning an ‘Open Home’ launch as we would normally start the marketing 1-2 weeks before the actual date. Also at this stage, it’s a good idea to get your paperwork ready – planning permissions, building regulations, guarantees etc.

2. Get the pricing right:  think about the prices other similar homes have achieved in your locality and try to be realistic. The most common question buyers ask when they enquire is “how long has this property been on the market?” Some purchasers dismiss homes simply on the basis that they have been for sale for several weeks – and don’t even make an appointment to view.

3. Kerb appeal:  the outside photograph is the first thing buyers see, but many potential purchasers may also drive past the property before making a viewing. It’s worth making sure the outside paintwork is clean and tidy and the driveway and front garden are free of clutter.

4. Keep the place looking at its best:  Obvious, but worth mentioning. That means de-cluttering where possible to show rooms in their best light. We always try to give as much notice as possible for a viewing, but sometimes the best buyers call to view on the same day – perhaps after driving past.

5. Little things count:  A small damp stain on the ceiling or a light not working may be minor maintenance issues, but getting them fixed could help when negotiating the price.

6. Animals and viewings don’t always mix:  We’re all animal lovers at Castle Wildish, but not everyone is – where possible remove cat litter trays and take the dog out for a quick walkies!

7. Define each room:  Buyers need to be able to picture themselves living in the property, so it’s ideal if each room is shown off to highlight its purpose.

8. Leave it to us:  Once you’ve set the house up for viewings, let us accompany buyers and show them around. We can explain the benefits of the property and local amenities, and the prospective purchasers can feel comfortable talking about the property with us and not feel rushed.

9. Make the most of your garden:  If possible, tidy up borders and treat lawns so that the outside space looks at its best when viewers arrive.

10. Choose the right buyer:  You may have the luxury of having a number of offers for your home. Depending on your circumstances the ‘best’ offer may not be the highest one. Safer buyers include those who have already sold their property and are in rented accommodation, chain-free first time buyers, and cash buyers who don’t require a mortgage.