Presentation of your property is a critical factor in achieving the highest possible price. This is similar to detailing a car before you sell it. The emotional appeal required to stir the spirit of buyers is unlikely to be generated by a poorly presented property. And a neglected building sends out ‘warning signals’ to prospective buyers. So, it is important to do whatever is possible to have your property looking its absolute best on inspection day.

Some turn offs for buyers include:

• Animal odours in the house
• Evidence of damp or moisture in the walls
• Cigarette or strong food odours
• Doors, windows or gates that stick
• Cracked glass
• Too much furniture or personal belongings cluttering the space
• Stained carpet

To improve the presentation, seek an outside opinion, as many of these problems can be fixed over a weekend for little expense.

Sale Preparation Checklist:

• Get the property detailed thoroughly.
• A few hundred dollars spent sprucing up the property will increase the saleability and more than likely increase the sale price.
• Obtain a building and pest inspection report. – This allows you to have necessary repair work done prior to sale. A 100% clear report can be used as a selling feature for buyers.
• A certificate of compliance should be obtained from the Local Council if you have recently undertaken major building works.
• It is advisable to have a survey of the land and buildings available if required when selling a property.
• If there is a current lease, check the expiry date and termination requirements.
• Make a note of all the inclusions. That is, everything that will be included in the purchase price and remaining at the property after completion. Standard items include light fittings, floor coverings, curtains and blinds. These can also be excluded if you prefer but it should be noted in the contract for sale.

Thinking of Selling? Click here for an Appraisal Request for your Property.