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PROPERTY TALK
For the Seller
The process on when you decide to sell your property can be a minefield unless you know what to look for and understand that the process of selling your home is a business partnership where you supply the product and various service providers complete the fulfilment of the sale and transactions.
Step 1: Before deciding to go to market be sure to complete repairs and general maintenance to your property. The reason for this is to ensure your home( which is your product) will be in its best condition to achieve the best possible price.
Step 2: Once the repairs are done, begin to unclutter your living areas, rooms and cupboards— spring clean if you would. This allows rooms to feel bigger and provides potential buyers to visualize themselves in your home.
Step 3: Find a reputable Real Estate Agent. This can be harder than thought as agents market themselves in a very competitive market resulting in just too many choices for you the seller. Here are a few things to looks for:
A) Passive marketing: Agents often have marketing in the area they serve which indicates they are knowledgeable of that specific area.
B) Bigger brands generally have greater exposure and you don’ t stand the risk of losing the agent overnight due to economic downturns.
C) Request proof of a Fidelity Fund Certificate. This is a legal trading licence which indicates the Real Estate Agent is authorized to sell fixed assets( eg. Houses). This means they are registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board which will give you a recourse should you be unhappy in any way of their method of practice.
Step 4: Review the Agents listings on-line or in printed media. You are looking for the quality of presentation.
Step 5: Valuation process is a great method to not only have your property assessed in value, but also to meet-and-greet various agents before committing to a mandate( Defn: A mandate is an employment contract where you determine terms and conditions with the Agent). Remember; the Agent that gives you highest value on your property is not necessarily the best agent. Instead, consider whether you would enjoy working with the Agent and that they would be able to properly represent your property.
Step 6: Complete the Mandate document with the agent of your choice. People are not always in favour of having a Sole Mandate( One agent representing the property), but it is wiser to have a single point of control and report which allows the agent to remain accountable to you the seller.
For more advice on property options and the due process of buying,
selling and investing …
Marc van Heerden Cell: 073 198 9369 Tel: 041 360 0365 marcv @ sothebysrealtype. co. za www. sothebysrealty. co. za Each office is independently owned and operated
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