Preparing your property is an important prerequisite to a successful sale

Preparing properly before putting your property on the market for sale is the crucial first step towards achieving a successful sale. Based on decades of experience in the property market, our observation is that properties which are prepared and accurately priced tend to have the highest success rates.

The ultimate goal for any seller is to secure the highest possible price in the shortest possible time. Failing to price the property correctly or neglecting to showcase it in its best possible condition can result in low or no offers, and the risk of the property simply languishing on the market.

To maximize the potential for attracting suitable buyers and securing a favourable offer, it is necessary to invest time and effort in preparing the property. Unless you are selling a fixer-upper or willing to reduce your price, the property must be in top condition.

Defects and faults must be repaired. In terms of the new Property Practitioners Act, a Property Condition Report is now legally required. This report must comprehensively detail the condition of all aspects of the property. It must be signed by all sellers and be attached to both the Mandate and the Sales Agreement.

All maintenance and repairs should be completed before the property is listed. It should also be thoroughly cleaned, broken fittings replaced, and painted inside and outside. The floors, carpets, blinds and curtains should also be cleaned, and cupboards and storage areas tidied.

The garden should be neat and overgrown plants trimmed. Outbuildings and garages should also be tidied, and any clutter removed. Garage doors, and the security and electric fence should be in working condition. A well-maintained exterior immediately captures buyers' attention and sets a positive tone for their viewing experience.

All building works should also be completed, and the correct plans lodged with the City of Cape Town as the Banks are now increasingly insisting on correct plans. If there are no plans, they will need to be drawn up and submitted. Visit the below website for more information:

https://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/Planning-building-and-development/Building-plan-applications/Apply-for-a-building-plan

To further expedite the sale, it is advisable for the seller to obtain Certificates of Compliance, especially related to the electric, water, and gas installations. Any necessary repairs should be addressed upfront, providing potential buyers with the peace of mind that the property is compliant.

Ideally, the property should also be staged both for photography purposes and all buyer viewings by removing all clutter, including bathroom and kitchen clutter, and depersonalising the space. Pack away personal photographs, excessive decorations, and any items that might distract potential buyers from envisioning themselves in the home.

Countertops should be clean in the kitchen and bathroom/s and storage areas decluttered to give the correct impression of the space available. Curtains and blinds should be open on the day to make the home well-lit and airy. Well-lit spaces are more inviting, appear more spacious, and can truly highlight the features of a home.

Once the property is prepared, it's crucial to price it correctly based on the current market conditions. Avoid relying on property portals or other listings in the area as a pricing guideline, as these might be overpriced. You should also avoid the temptation to test the market by setting a higher price, as it will only waste time and may ultimately require you to lower the price.

Instead, Seeff highly recommends working with a skilled local area agent. We can provide you with reliable sales data and suggest an appropriate asking price range. Furthermore, based on our track record of sales success, we can develop an optimal marketing plan for your property.

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