It’s 2020! A new year, a new decade, a fresh start… and time to make your move? As January rushes by, many of us have created new year’s resolutions. And while some have already fallen by the wayside, if moving home is part of your 2020 life plans, don’t be discouraged yet…
Despite there being multiple myths out there about the house-selling process, at Follwells we don’t indulge in rumours. We simply let you know the facts around selling your property – so you can decide what’s best for you and your situation.
In our first blog post of 2020 John, director at Follwells, myth-busts the most common theories around moving home…
1. “I should wait until spring to sell my home.”
Once upon a time buyers were encouraged to sell their home during seasons of better weather and increased daylight. However, the days of seasonal markets have well and truly gone.
Yes, on a practical note it may help to have a few more hours of the daylight to conduct viewings but the reality is life doesn’t wait.
If someone wants to move home, it’s likely to be a decision motivated by a greater need. Whether it’s a growing family or new job, changing circumstances often need people to move fast – and start the home buying journey, regardless of the season.
If that’s the case, and your home is ‘waiting’ for better weather, you could miss out on a great potential buyer.
Related: Learn why Brexit shouldn’t put you off putting your house on the market
2. “I need to do loads of work on my house before I sell it!”
Actually, despite the abundance of property-enhancing programmes on TV, this is not always the answer. Always speak to your estate agent before deciding ‘work’ is needed.
Sometimes work can add value to your property – like a fresh lick of paint. It’s relatively inexpensive, minimally disruptive and won’t take too long.
However, if it’s more advanced – like renovation work – an estate agent can tell you if it will actually add value to your home. Using their market knowledge, they’ll spot a costly mistake – and sometimes advise you to put your house on the market without the renovation work.
3. “It’s exhausting the amount of effort I have to go to present my home.”
Traditionally, people selling their homes would go to great efforts to present their property. From brewing coffee to baking bread, it was a great show.
However, it doesn’t need to be this complicated – or tiring! Simply focus on the lifestyle you are trying to sell.
So for example, if a young couple was coming to view your 3-bed semi-detached home, you want to sell a vision of happy family life.
You can do this by making your home appear welcoming. On a summer’s day, open doors and windows and set up your outdoor table and chairs to show alfresco dining.
If it’s winter, make a room cosy by lighting your fire – if you have one. Even adding small touches like softly-scented candles help – just nothing too strong!
See, it doesn’t need to be as complicated as baking bread!
Selling an empty property?
If your property is empty, only set a stage if you’re confident you can do it well.
Aim for minimalistic and neutral styles – remembering everyone is different, with different tastes.
Definitely don’t pull together old odd bits of furniture to fill the space. It would be better to keep it empty.
4. “It’s better if I’m around to conduct viewings – but I don’t have the time!”
In most cases, this isn’t true. Most estate agents are happy to conduct viewings on your behalf and a good estate agent will not let this hamper the sale.
Of course, there are benefits of the homeowner being there. You know your lifestyle better and your house inside-out – so can answer any questions straightaway.
However, a professional estate agent will always take the time to get to know you – and the lifestyle you’re selling with your home. They also have an array of benefits – as they are experts in the market and are experienced in answering questions to reassure the viewers.
Overall, estate agents are experts in selling your home. You don’t have to be there – it’s completely up to you – and will not make a difference in the long run.
5. “I need to put my house on the market at a higher price than its valuation to make sure I get maximum value!”
Ultimately, the asking price needs to be at a level that you – as the vendor – is comfortable with. We will always advise what’s in line with the marketplace.
Furthermore, we make sure your property listing includes great images and details that will attract your potential buyers.
Putting a higher price tag on your home can be risky. If it’s overpriced, buyers may not come forward initially – and you’ll need to reduce it closer to marketplace value. This can give out the wrong message to potential buyers.
Received an offer on your property?
It’s important to remember too that at the offering stage, the highest offer is not always the best offer.
A fair offer backed with better credentials from the potential buyer – like a mortgage in place and a house under offer – means that the sale is more likely to go through.
6. “I need to sell my house first before I can look at houses.”
This is not true – so don’t let it stop your search.
Buying and selling your home should go hand in hand. It’s important you have all the facts when you’re viewing other properties:
- A professional valuation of the property that you’re selling
- A clear picture of your financial situation – i.e. what you can borrow from a mortgage lender
- Knowledge of what you want to buy – so you can live where you love.
Selling your home in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Shropshire or Cheshire
As John explains – selling your home doesn’t have to be a mystery! In fact, we have clear guidance that helps you along your homeseller and homebuyer journey!
Want to learn more about moving house? Contact us for a FREE copy of our step-by-step guide to selling or buying your home. It walks you through every step of the journey – removing the jargon and giving you clear simple steps to follow.
Request your free property valuation
Ready to get started? Request your free valuation. Or get in touch with us to discuss your property search. You can even pop into one of our offices – we’re in Market Drayton and Newcastle-under-Lyme.
