With an election out of the way, it seems that confidence has finally returned to the property market, with a new industry survey showing rises of more than 2% in the three months to November 1.
Positive results have been reported in the cities and regional centres as optimism returns based on a probable end to the recent interest rate hikes.
The OneRoof-Valocity House Value Index found that the bellwether Auckland and Canterbury areas moved at more than 2% in the 12 weeks to the end of October.
The average price of a New Zealand home is now trending upwards to $952,000, a rise of 1.7% over the previous 12-week period.
These market results may be what you have been waiting to hear before listing your property for sale.
If that’s the case, then these top tips will help you prepare quickly for a sales campaign.
Take a breath
Do you need to rush to market? If you spend more time preparing your home, do you think you’ll improve your selling price substantially? Not sure? Talk to your agent. Taking shortcuts when selling rarely pays dividends.
Out with the old
The No.1 recommendation when preparing any home for sale is to declutter. Your home will feel substantially bigger and more attractive to buyers with minimal furniture, fewer ornaments and the removal of family photos and favourite object d’art.
Sort the storage
Your declutter project must also double down on storage areas. Make sure your closets look half-empty rather than over-flowing and appearing insufficient. A cluttered garage devalues that space, too.
Professional cleaning
If your budget will stretch, it’s a great idea to have your home professionally cleaned once the declutter has been completed. It will save you heaps of time and energy, and they’ll likely do a better job.
Keep it light
When you present your home to buyers, the decor has an enormous impact. Minimise the big colours they might experience. For example, white linen on the beds is a top tip. With a neutral decor, buyers better imagine how they’d live in your home.
Fix it
Squeaky floorboards and door hinges, dripping taps, and cracks in the footpath will all count against you in the eyes of the buyer. Get these annoying little flaws fixed to ensure your buyers experience your home in pristine condition.
First impression
Another popular tip is to create a great first impression as the buyers enter the home. That means mowing the lawn, weeding the flowerbeds, putting the bins away and cleaning the front porch of dust and grime.
NOTE: The information in this article is general in nature and provided as a market overview only. Always consult your financial advisor or accountant for advice specific to your personal circumstances.