Selling a home can be challenging in any market, but when the market is moving a little more slowly, it requires a bit more strategy and effort to attract buyers. Read on for 12 tips that will help you sell your home quickly.
The UK housing market has picked up in the last few months with some properties selling exceptionally fast, but a quick sale isn’t always guaranteed and if you live in an expensive area, have a quirky or characterful home or your property needs some modernising, it could take longer to find the right buyers.
With the right approach though, you can still achieve a quick sale! Here are our top tips to help you sell your home quickly.
1. Price It Right from the Start
Pricing your home correctly is crucial, especially in a tricky market. Overpricing can deter potential buyers, while pricing it too low can leave you out of pocket.
Conduct thorough research on comparable homes in your area and consider getting more than one professional valuation to help you settle on a competitive and realistic price.
2. Boost The Kerb Appeal of Your Home
First impressions matter! Enhance your home's kerb appeal to attract buyers from the moment they see your property. Simple updates like a fresh coat of paint on the front door, well-maintained landscaping, and clean windows can make a significant difference and make a property feel more homely and well cared for.
Read more tips for enhancing the kerb appeal of your property.
3. Declutter
Buyers must be able to envision themselves living in your home, which can be difficult if cluttered or filled with too many personal items. Declutter each room and you’ll immediately create a greater sense of space and make your interior feel like a calmer place.
Consider renting a storage unit if necessary to keep your home tidy and looking as spacious as possible.
4. Make Necessary Repairs and Updates
Address any minor repairs and consider making cost-effective updates that can enhance your home's appeal. Fix leaky taps, replace broken tiles, and consider updating outdated fixtures and fittings. Even small changes can make your home more attractive to buyers.
5. Stage Your Home
Staging your home can significantly impact how potential buyers perceive it. Arrange furniture to highlight the space and functionality of each room. You might even want to use neutral colours and decor to appeal to a broader audience, but essentially, as long as your home is clean, tidy and uncluttered, you can’t go far wrong.
6. Hire a Skilled Estate Agent
A knowledgeable and experienced estate agent can be invaluable in a challenging market. They can provide insights on pricing, marketing strategies, and negotiation tactics. Choose an agent with a good track record and reviews in your area who can actively promote your property.
7. Utilise High-Quality Photos and Virtual Tours
Most buyers start their search online, so high-quality photos and floorplans are essential whilst virtual tours can be a real added bonus. Your estate agent will be able to arrange marketing assets for you, or you can get the ball rolling and request a property floorplan here.
8. Be Flexible with Viewings
Being flexible with viewing times can make a big difference. Accommodate potential buyers' schedules, even if it means showing your home in the evenings or on weekends.
The more accessible your home is, the more likely you are to attract serious buyers, and whilst it can lead to plenty of family disruption, it’s worth it in the end!
9. Offer Incentives
In a slow market, offering incentives can give you a competitive edge. Consider offering to include certain things in the sale if wanted, fixtures and fittings can help sweeten the deal for potential buyers and can help make your property more appealing.
10. Market Effectively
Effective marketing is key to selling your home quickly. Choose an estate agent that utilises a variety of marketing methods, including online listings, social media, and local advertising to reach a broad audience.
Your estate agent should also have a robust marketing plan, but also choose someone you trust to take great photographs of your home and to conduct viewings.
11. Highlight Energy Efficiency
With growing interest in sustainability, highlighting your home's energy-efficient features is a must, and it can attract buyers too. Ensure you have an EPC drawn up which gives your home an easy to understand energy rating.
12. Be Patient and Stay Positive
Finally, be patient and stay positive. Selling a home can take time, but with the right strategies in place, you can increase your chances of a quick sale. Keep your home in top condition, continue to market it effectively, and be ready to negotiate when the right buyer comes along.
By following these tips you can improve your home's appeal and attract buyers even in a challenging market. Remember, preparation and presentation are key to making your property stand out and achieving a sale as quickly as possible.