When should I start worrying about my house sale?
It’s a good question and one we hear often from homeowners that have been on the market with other agents. Do you start worrying after a few weeks or marketing without an offer on your house? Or should you be patient and stick with your agent and price for six months or more?
We often come across many sellers that have been on the market for months or even over a year. It’s true that the longer your property is on the market, the less desirable it is to a buyer, and the less confidence your agent will have that they can achieve a figure close to your asking price. (Remember online agents, or rather DIY agents, are not pro-actively marketing your home, merely offering you access to advertises on the internet portals). It is therefore really important that your strategy in the first 6-8 weeks is as well thought out, planned and confident.
Here are our 5 golden rules for making sure you don’t get to the worrying stage:
1. Choose the right agent based on marketing skills, enthusiasm and a decent no sale no fee – they will earn it.
2. Once you’ve decided on your asking price, stick to it. So long as it is well researched and realistic, of course. Make sure it’s a nice round figure, (in line with price bandings online to ensure it is top or as close to the top of buyers’ search results). Don’t drop it! Be confident.
3. Have the best photography and brochure you possibly can. Your house MUST stand out among the competition. Explore rotating photographs and updating/refreshing if snow or seasonal flowers (daffodils, wisteria etc) were evident, but have since disappeared.
4. Consider commissioning a home-stager to give your house a once over. Or if budget is restrictive, visit show homes in your area or quality hotels for lifestyle ideas and inspiration.
5. Communication! Communication! Communication! Keep in touch with your agent. Obtain feedback from viewings, monitor activity through your Rightmove Property Performance Report.
Follow these 5 golden rules and you should sell within 8-12 weeks. If you would like further help to sell your home effectively, and feel you could benefit from a fresh approach, please do not hesitate to call us – 0116 275 8888.