DEAL or no deal?

We could apply this question to Brexit, we can also apply it to negotiating sales of property this autumn.

The last four months of any year are all about quality not quantity when it comes to buyers searching for their first or next home.

Numbers are down compared to the first two thirds of the year, but the quality is excellent.

Most will be motivated (not time wasters) and most likely be in a position where they can proceed ie sold subject to contract, cash buyers, first time buyers or have nothing to sell.

Supply of property for sale is healthy locally and second-hand sellers are competing with a variety of new home builders who are offering incentives to attract buyers and part exchange to simplify their move.

It is a buyer’s market.

So, if you are selling a second-hand property what can you do to ensure that the buyer is attracted to your property and not someone else’s?

Firstly, and most importantly, remember the reason you want to move.

Maybe you are downsizing, upsizing into a larger family home, or relocating for work.

Whatever the reason, this is the most important factor to consider as you make decisions through the house selling journey, not the price.

The price of your property should be set to attract as many buyers as possible which should result in a quicker sale, and if competition is generated, a better price.

This is not the time to try a high figure and reduce later, for fear of chasing the market down.

You can help to sell more quickly by presenting your home as well as you can, both inside and out.

If in doubt, one of our experienced agents will offer you free advice to ensure your property is staged to maximum advantage.

Lastly the property should be promoted with the best, professional photographs so that you stand out from your competition.

You may even consider a twilight shot of the exterior which will ensure your property is the one that is noticed when your buyers are searching the internet and deciding which properties to view.

The market is very much working in favour of first-time buyers.

They have little competition from investors, and mortgage rates are still at a historically low level.

It is also a good time to up size to a larger, more expensive home, as the higher valuer properties have seen the biggest re-levelling of values.

All our offices are reporting strong autumn sales and we traditionally sell more properties in October and November than any other time.

With sound professional advice and great marketing, we can get you moved too.

Give your local branch of Perry Bishop and Chambers a call.

Sarah Benson MNAEA

Residential Sales Director

Perry Bishop and Chambers