Maximising the value of their home should be the goal of any owner planning to enter the market.
Momentum has swung to the seller in the last few months with steady monthly price increases, three interest rate cuts this year and an estimated 20% shortfall in housing stock that would have normally been for sale at this time of year.
A strong immigration intake – Australia has attracted more than 400,000 new residents over the past 12 months – means there are not enough homes for sale to meet the demand of buyers.
These factors make it an opportune time to put your home on the market.
If you’re considering entering the market, an early summer marketing campaign may work best for you.
That’s because it always takes a few weeks to fix small maintenance problems and get your property ready for viewing. You don’t want to go into the market half-ready, as this could adversely affect the final sale price.
A well-maintained and beautifully presented home will always attract interest, leading to multiple offers and a higher final sale price.
Today’s buyers are usually more willing to pay a premium for a turn-key property that requires no immediate work.
First impressions matter, of course. A potential buyer’s decision can be influenced within the first few seconds of seeing the property.
Early preparation ensures your home makes a powerful and positive first impression, both in online photos and in person.
If you’re seeking a summer deal, it’s time to start taking action. You should begin by looking for an agent, a conveyancer and booking any tradespeople who will help you get your property in tip-top condition.
Here are 10 more tips to achieve a great summer deal:
Curb Appeal – First impressions are everything. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, pull weeds and add fresh mulch to garden beds. Plant colourful, heat-tolerant flowers to create a welcoming vibe.
Outdoor lifestyle – Summer buyers are looking for a lifestyle. Stage your patio, deck or balcony with new outdoor furniture, cushions and perhaps a small dining set.
Sweat the small things – Fix all those small, nagging issues you’ve been putting off. Leaky taps, loose doorknobs, cracked tiles and peeling paint can make a home appear poorly maintained and give buyers a reason to offer less.
Clean slate – Consider hiring a cleaning contractor to give your home a deep clean. Ask them to wash windows inside and out, as this will maximise the natural light coming into your home. Pressure-wash your driveway. A spotless home signals that it has been well-maintained.
Declutter and depersonalise – Personal items and knick-knacks should be put away. And store excess furniture to make every room feel bigger. Consider hiring a stylist to help you make the very best impression on buyers.
Let there be light – Open curtains and blinds because a bright, airy interior feels more inviting and spacious.
Be cool – No one loves a hot and stuffy house, so have your air-conditioner fired up when buyers inspect your property. If you don’t have an A/C, open windows to allow a cooling breeze through the home.
Seasonal touches – Use light blue or yellow throw rugs and cushions to help enhance the summer vibe. A bowl of fresh citrus fruit in the kitchen and fresh flowers in the living room add subtle, refreshing touches.
Makes scents – How your home smells has an impact on buyers. The smell of damp in the walls, or of pets, will put off many buyers. You should use scents of citrus or vanilla to mask any unpleasantness. Avoid overpowering air fresheners, though.
No pets – When buyers visit, you should remove evidence of pets. Hide food and water bowls, and it’s usually a good idea to leave your pet with family or a friend while buyers come through.