When planning to sell a home or apartment for the first time, the No. 1 thing you should do is find the right real-estate agent – someone who knows your area and has a proven record of selling properties at a good price. The agent will then be able to advise you on every step of the process. However, you’ll still need to make several decisions and take care of a lot of preparations yourself, so we’ve put together a list of tips for new sellers.
Set a Realistic Price
No matter how nice or full of potential a property may be, an unrealistic price will stop it from selling almost every time. Fortunately, if you have an agent, you can set this figure in consultation with them, taking into account their extensive knowledge of the local market.
Fix All of the Little Things
We’re talking about stuff like a wonky gate or a dripping tap or a wall crack. You might think, “Oh, the new owner can sort those out.” The thing is, when people see obvious faults – however small – they tend to assume there are more that they aren’t seeing!
Clean and Tidy
This is pretty obvious, but pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms as these can be a major turn-off to prospective buyers, e.g. if there is mould on tiled surfaces. Ideally, the place should be empty, but obviously this isn’t feasible if you need to sell before moving.
Depersonalise
Many believe that removing family photos and displaying only generic items helps viewers imagine themselves living in the home or apartment. Or, put another way, that objects which are too personal spoil this fantasy.
Emphasise Functionality
Following on from the previous point, each room should be advertising its potential. If there’s a study but you only use it as, say, overflow storage for winter clothes and bedding, consider setting it up with a desk and your home computer so it actually looks like a study.
Go for Maximum Light
Nobody wants to visit a dingy dwelling, let alone live in one. Even if you wouldn’t normally use them in every room, put bright lightbulbs throughout the property. Lamps help, too. And prune any trees or bushes reducing the natural light coming through the windows.
Beware of Expensive Renovations
Huge projects such as replacing a kitchen don’t tend to be worth the trouble when selling a property. Think smaller – like replacing a fitting or two. Repainting is often worth it for the lift it gives those rooms, just be wary of trendy colours which may have limited appeal.
Consider a Few Stylish Touches
You don’t have to try to turn the place into something from a designer magazine. At the same time, a strategically placed mirror or rug or perhaps a new set of curtains can add a touch of style. On the flip side, don’t overdo it with stuff like ornaments. Subtle is better.
Let the Neighbours Know
The last thing you want is a well-meaning neighbour asking a possible buyer what they’re doing there or who they’re after. Prevent anyone feeling unwelcome in the building/street by letting those around you know about your sale and the proposed viewing hours.
Make it Available
Speaking of viewing hours, another reason certain properties don’t sell is because they’re simply not made available to enough house hunters. Don’t limit everyone to a tiny window in which to inspect what could turn out to be their dream home.
Our Ultimate Tip?
Sell your first property through the professional team at Abode Real Estate in Cottesloe. We know what’s popular right now and what isn’t, how to show your home or apartment at its absolute best, and everything you should and shouldn’t be doing to find the right buyer. You can contact us on or by calling (08) 9381 9111.