Property Talk

In a typical soft market such as we are currently experiencing homes may remain on the market unsold for extended periods of time. This may not necessarily mean that the property is over-priced as several other factors other than price could influence buyer attitude towards a property.

It is true that a property can go stale by being on the market for too long. Each area and price bracket would have different norms for the expected length of time on the market and it is useful for a seller to have insight into these area, suburb or estate specific statistics to understand what the benchmark is. Within the higher price brackets found within Zimbali Coastal Resort the sales cycle is typically 12-24 months. For a property in Seaward Estates or Westbrook Beach the sales cycle may be anywhere between 3-6 months.

Every seller believes their particular home is somehow better in many ways than other similar properties. This is human nature and is because sellers are so familiar with their own properties that they may appreciate certain aspects of the home that are not readily obvious to potential buyers and even the estate agent representing the property. For those sellers who have had their properties on the market, without success, herewith are some ideas that may re-ignite activity and hopefully facilitate a sale.

Re-look at the property through the eyes of a typical buyer within the price bracket. Focus on the sense of arrival, presentation of the property, experience when on site and how they are typically alerted to the property. One of the worst things a seller can do is be present during the showing of their property.

This inhibits buyers and does not permit them to speak openly to the representative agent while on site. In many cases a seller can be the stumbling block while being blissfully unaware of this. Check professional photography and videography and how these are displayed online - if necessary re-list with updated imagery and copy. Pay for featured positions through the major property portals in order to showcase the property.

The staging of the home is important - repaint areas or all if necessary, fix everything obvious, replace old hobs, ovens and extractor and ensure garage door motors and air-conditioning units if applicable have been serviced and in good working condition. The home must at all times appear light and bright - all lights on, all curtains and blinds open, bathrooms and kitchen immaculate, and remove clutter.

Make sure of ample fresh air-flow through the property and if necessary get a fragrant oil burner to have the home smell beautifully. Buyers will remember a home based on the impact it had on their senses while viewing.

Sellers should carefully scrutinize which agency is representing their property and ask for a revised marketing plan. Your appointed agent is your representative and as a seller you have to ensure your focus and goals are aligned. More agents does not mean more buyers but it will diminish the focus, activity and enthusiasm of the agents you may actually want working tirelessly on your home.