9 things to know before selling your home

Selling a house is an important milestone in life, and thorough preparation is essential to maximise your chances of success. Whether you are just getting started or want to refine your strategy, this article guides you through the nine most important aspects to consider before putting your house on the market.

1. How can I estimate the value of my house?

Estimating the value of your house is one of the first steps. An asking price that is too high could deter buyers, while one that is too low could cause you to lose money. You can begin with an online valuation, look at similar listings in your neighbourhood or ask an estate agent for a more accurate valuation.

👉 To find out more, read our article: How can you estimate the value of your house?

2. What documents are required?

Selling a house requires several documents, such as the title deed, energy performance certificate and plans of the property. Preparing these documents in advance will help speed up the process once you have found a buyer.

👉 To download our complete list, click here: The documents required to sell your house

3. How should I prepare my house for viewings?

First impressions are crucial. To appeal to buyers, it is essential to prepare your house properly. Clean, declutter and consider making small improvements to showcase your property's best features. Home staging can also make all the difference.

4. Should I carry out work before selling?

Not all work is necessary before a sale, but some improvements can significantly increase the value of your house. Assess the overall condition of your property and determine whether minor or major renovations are needed to attract more buyers and achieve a better price.

👉 To find out what work to carry out, read our article: Should you carry out work before selling?

5. When is the best time to sell?

The time of year when you put your house on the market can affect how quickly it sells and the price you achieve. In Belgium, spring and autumn are generally the most favourable times. However, the type of property and economic conditions also play an important role.

👉 For advice on the right timing, read our article: When is the best time to sell your house?

6. How long will it take to sell my house?

The time required to sell a house depends on many factors, including the price, market conditions and demand for similar properties. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Thorough preparation and a well-judged asking price can shorten this timeframe.

👉 For detailed information, read our article: How long does it take to sell a house?

7. What are the stages of the sales process?

Selling a property involves several stages: the valuation, putting it on the market, viewings, offers, the preliminary sale agreement and, finally, signing the deed at the notary's office. Each of these stages is crucial and requires particular attention.

8. How much does it cost to sell your house, privately or through an estate agency?

Selling privately may seem less expensive because you do not have to pay an estate agency's commission. However, it requires time and expertise and can lead to costly mistakes. An estate agency, on the other hand, handles all the formalities but charges fees. The choice depends on your personal circumstances.

👉 For a full comparison, read our article: How Much Does It Cost to Sell Your House?

9. Should you sell privately or through an estate agency?

The choice between selling privately or through an estate agency is crucial. Selling privately gives you more control and can reduce costs, but it requires time and specific skills. Working with an estate agency offers the benefits of professional expertise, greater visibility and, often, a faster and more profitable sale.

👉 To help you make this choice, read our article: Selling Privately or Through an Estate Agency?

Conclusion: make an informed decision

Selling your house is a complex process that requires thorough preparation and an in-depth understanding of the various stages. By asking the right questions and learning about every aspect, you maximise your chances of success. If you need help or would like further information, please read the detailed articles linked to each point.

You can also download our Complete Property Sales Guide for an even more in-depth and personalised approach. Whether you choose to sell privately or through an estate agency, this guide will give you all the tools you need to achieve a successful sale under the best possible conditions.