HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE SELLABLE

HOW TO…

MAKE YOUR HOME MORE SELLABLE

#HelloLifestyle

by: Renate Engelbrecht Images: Supplied

Adrienne Hersch from Adrienne Hersch Properties says she believes that in South Africa there is no perfect time to sell your home. Still, there are many factors that push people to sell - from expecting a baby and needing a bigger home, to losing a loved one and requiring a smaller space.

We cannot always control the timing,” says Adrienne, “but make an informed decision before you put your house on the market.”

CHANGE WITH THE SEASON Humans tend to change with the seasons and so does the property market. As the natural elements change, our behaviours follow. “The weather and school holidays may influence our decisions as we tend to go away in the warmer months and hibernate in the colder months,” says Adrienne.

If you are selling in an area rich in good schools, it might be a good idea to sell your home at the beginning of a school term or school year. Parents would want to secure a new address near their children’s chosen school.

Adrienne adds that spring is always good time to list your home. The seasonal change offers the perfect time to do some spring-cleaning and to get your home in order before putting it on the market.

As the temperatures rise, people become happier and more relaxed, and it is during this time of the year when homeowners should take advantage of the influx of potential buyers. During the summer months, a lot of people tend to get their homes and gardens in tip-top shape for the sunny season. Evidently, it is not only more appealing for family and friends who come to visit, but also for potential buyers. Set the scene and help buyers imagine their future holidays in your home… HOME SELLING TIPS AND TRICKS While a good price and the right timing might play an important role in selling your home, we’ve gathered some valuable tips on helping the process along:

• Declutter, but be careful not to depersonalise it too much. Remember, buyers are looking for a house to make a home. At the same time, they need to be able to visualise themselves in it, and too many of your personal keepsakes might be a barrier. • Make sure that the maintenance is up to scratch. A fresh lick of paint, minor repairs and a proper spring-clean will go a long way. • Maximise the lighting and airiness with clean, open windows, mirrors and lamps in dark corners. • In winter, light a fire. In summer, open the sliding doors and bake Christmas cookies before the buyers arrive for a viewing, filling the air with holiday scents.

PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE Keep in mind that on average, it takes up to three to four months to sell a house, and another three months to register the property. The reality is that there will be buyers throughout the year. A good, qualified property expert will help you create interest with potential buyers any time of the year.

1 www.ahprop.co.za m 011 728 7013 admin@ahprop.co.za