Whatever your reasons for wanting to do so, if you’re selling up in Salisbury as a first-timer, and moving on to a new chapter in your life, it should feel like an exciting prospect. However, it can also occasionally feel overwhelming, and even old hands don’t always get it right.
The current market is not without its issues, while Salisbury itself has property prices typically above the UK average, which can make matters even more challenging.
So here’s our guide to maximising your chances of smooth, hassle-free and profitable sale in the city:
- Get an accurate valuation
In the current climate, it’s particularly important that you don’t go for an inflated valuation. So watch out for any figures which seem too high, and go for one which reflects the price of local homes which have actually sold. Challenge any values which are similar to prices of homes like yours which have been on the market for lengthy periods. And given that nearly everybody kicks off their house hunt online, you need an asking price which targets your ideal target audience.
- Minimise legal hold-ups
You may not realise that you can delay your own property sale by waiting to have a buyer before initiating the legal side of things, or not giving your estate agent what they need.
So show your agent proof of ID promptly; they need this before they can even start marketing your home. Equally, instruct a solicitor the minute your property goes on the market.
- Be ready for photos and viewings
It’s another rookie error not to have your home looking as attractive as possible to potential purchasers, in terms of photos, videos and in-person viewings.
If rooms or surfaces are cluttered, for example, clear sightlines, find ways of highlighting key features or open up floor space, so viewers can move around more readily.
Don’t neglect minor repairs, either, from leaky taps to cracked tiles or broken handles. Repaint anything which could do with a fresh lease of life.
Finally, of course, create the best possible first impression with things like a neat garden, sparkling windows plus a welcoming front door and possibly adding some enticing aromas.
- Getting the right estate agent
Especially if you’re selling in Salisbury for the first time, it’s vital that you work with an estate agent displaying the requisite skill, integrity and energy. Ask anyone you can for recommendations, read online reviews and ask the right questions.
Look for strong property descriptions and photograph on agents’ websites. Equally, ask potential agents about service standards for viewings and how they stay in touch with clients. How do they maintain momentum if a property has a flurry of initial viewings but then things go quiet?
Equally, ask about social media and online property portals. Which ones does your prospective agent use, and how do they utilise them to their advantage?
Lastly, a lot of it comes down to good old-fashioned gut feeling and which agent fills you with most confidence.
- Don’t accept an offer that’s not right for you
The right agents will secure the best deal by asking questions such as whether the purchaser is chain-free, a mortgage holder or a cash buyer. Do the funds need to undergo money-laundering checks from abroad or are they in the UK and usable right now? It’s also worth identifying whether anyone else needs to see the property for any reason before the offer can go ahead.
Additionally, ensure timescales suit your own schedules for moving. Finally, are any terms or conditions attached to the offer?
Sell in Salisbury with Carter & May
Carter & May is an award-winning local estate agent covering Salisbury and the surrounding areas. Our local knowledge, expertise and use of relevant technology are unparalleled in our ‘patch’. Browse our website to find out how we can help you to sell your house in Salisbury, contact us if you have any queries, and book a free valuation today.