In the property sector, first impressions are always very important, so it is essential to give yourself the best possible chance from the outset. Here are a few simple, inexpensive tips to help you sell your property.

STEP 1: VALUING YOUR PROPERTY (SET A FAIR PRICE)

Here are a few factors to consider when determining the fair price of your property 

Owners tend to overvalue their property, which often causes problems when selling and could deter many potential buyers. It is essential to value your property correctly and not be too greedy. This is an all-too-common mistake that can delay your sale by several months and inevitably results in a reduction in the asking price.

For an accurate valuation, contact a trusted estate agency. As valuations are often free, do not hesitate to contact several agencies for comparison. Be careful! The agency that gives you the highest valuation is not necessarily the best! Commercial considerations may lead agencies to overvalue a property in order to secure an exclusive agency agreement.

Alternatively, use an expert valuer. This will cost more, but you can be certain of their neutrality and objectivity.

PS: We value your property free of charge.

STEP 2: PREPARING THE IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

Here are a few examples of administrative documents to keep close at hand 

> EPC certificate

> Post-intervention file (DIU)

> Electrical compliance certificate

For more information about the mandatory documents you need, read our article on the subject.

STEP 3: CHOOSING THE RIGHT TIME TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY

Is it better to put your property on the market during a quieter season, when you will have more opportunities to stand out? Or during the spring peak, when both supply and demand are plentiful? This question comes up frequently. However, bear in mind that there is no general rule. It largely depends on the type of property you wish to sell. Nevertheless, here are a few tips:

> House with land: Are you planning to sell a house whose main asset is its garden? It is best to choose a time when gardens are in bloom. The key period for putting your property on the market would therefore be March-April. Spring is also when potential buyers tend to come forward.

> Flat: Would you like to sell a flat? If so, bear in mind that flats generally sell well throughout the year.

> Winter and summer are generally less favourable seasons for selling your property effectively; buyers tend either to hibernate or to be away on holiday.

But be careful! Do not miss the return to work and school after the holidays, as the property market becomes active again!

STEP 4: PREPARING YOUR PROPERTY (CLEANING AND DIY)

This step is often overlooked, but it is essential to clean and thoroughly tidy your property so as not to deter prospective viewers. This will be particularly important when taking photographs.

As for repairs, there is no need to spend a fortune! Start with small, straightforward jobs, such as filling holes and replacing faulty light bulbs. If your walls are dirty, consider repainting them in a neutral colour. Finally,  if your budget allows, bear in mind that the bathroom and kitchen are often the rooms to which viewers pay the most attention, so make sure they are very clean and in good condition! These small jobs will help you sell your property at the best price and attract prospective buyers. 

STEP 5: NEUTRAL DECOR AND DEPERSONALISING YOUR PROPERTY

Once you have cleaned your property and repaired any minor defects, it is time to focus on the decor! Preparing your property will help potential buyers picture themselves living in their future home if they decide to buy it. This is why it is best to choose neutral decor. Create inviting atmospheres and ensure that rooms are not overly cluttered. Your decor should be simple and uncluttered.

Another important tip: depersonalise your property. Remove as many personal belongings and photographs as possible.

Finally, create a well-structured layout for viewings. Do not hesitate to rearrange your furniture, for example. Make sure your home is welcoming and, above all, appealing.

STEP 6: HIGH-QUALITY PHOTOGRAPHS

Another step not to overlook when selling your property: the photographs ! The more photos, the better (but they must be relevant). Indeed, it has been proven that when there are few photos of a property, potential buyers are more likely to be wary and suspect that the owner is trying to conceal defects.

The quality of the photos is also an important consideration. Your smartphone may not be ideal for taking them. Instead, opt for a professional camera with a wide-angle lens to capture larger spaces. If you do not own one, ask a friend for help, consider hiring a professional photographer, or use an estate agency that will take care of it for you.

> TIPS FOR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS

> Avoid using flash and favour natural light.

> Use a tripod, if you have one, to avoid blurry photos.

> Never photograph a window straight on, to avoid backlighting.

> Take your photos over several sessions, depending on the weather and at different times of day. You will see that the light changes considerably.

> Do not hesitate to edit your photos. The aim is not to deceive, but to make the photos look more like what visitors will see when they enter your home.

Lastly, showcase certain rooms and do not hesitate to photograph the small, original details that characterise your property and make it stand out. Above all, do not take your photos when it is too dark!

Once all this is done, arrange your photos in order of importance in the listing. The first photo a potential buyer sees should be the one that determines whether or not the property appeals to them. Therefore, choose your photos carefully and ensure that they effectively highlight your property's strengths.

STEP 7: OPTIMISE YOUR PROPERTY'S VISIBILITY

Do not hesitate to invest in a variety of advertising media, which will increase your chances of reaching a wider audience.

GOOD TO KNOW:

> Having a presence on websites is necessary, but not always sufficient.

> You could also showcase your property with a virtual tour, and perhaps even a drone video (if you have a garden, for example).

> Lastly, do not hesitate to share your listing on social media.

STEP 8: IT IS TIME FOR VIEWINGS

Your property is ready and your photos have been taken. The first potential buyers contact you (or your estate agency) to view your property.

> TIPS:

> Never reveal the price you actually hope to achieve.

> Do not automatically reject the first offers on the grounds that you can always hope for something better: they are often the best.

CONCLUSION

Despite our advice, do you still not feel able to sell your property yourself? Would you rather not handle the formalities, viewings and other hassles involved in the sale? Do not worry, we are here to help.

> Benefits: We will be able to assess the value of your property, organise ‘effective’ viewings and identify objective selling points. We guarantee you a targeted, state-of-the-art marketing strategy. We will promote your property effectively through the appropriate channels.