Predictions are pointing to 2014 being a good year for selling property so if you are considering selling, now, rather than the traditional springtime, is the time to act, suggests Rod Christie, a partner at CKD Galbraith.
Mr Christie said: “The market is beginning to show some very encouraging signs, with many prospective buyers looking to gain from viewing even earlier than usual.
“We would encourage early action as the Scottish independence referendum is likely to cause a slight slowdown in the property market in the months leading up to the poll itself, a traditional trend that is experienced in any general election year.
“However, there is no doubt that the government Help to Buy scheme is assisting first-time buyers trying to get on to the property ladder and consequently this is helping to revitalise the market.
“Furthermore, as a firm, we don’t expect the new mortgage lending rules, set to be introduced in April through the Mortgage Market Review (MMR), to be something to worry about and in fact the Council of Mortgage Lenders predicts that mortgage lending will grow to £195billion in 2014, up 15% on last year’s figures.
Kevin Maley of Strutt and Parker, also suggests February is a good time to prepare your home for the open market.
“The most important thing when selling your house is getting people to come and look at it in the first place so focus all your efforts on encouraging buyers to come and view,” said Mr Maley.
“Of course setting a suitable guide price is important, but don’t let the tail wag the dog.”
He also advises considering promotion – brochures and advertising in the press, magazines and online.
“Provide as much detail about your property as possible and try and tell a ‘story’ – about you and your home and what it offers to a potential buyer.
“Present it well – think professional brochures and photographs, and be prepared to invest in order to show your house in its best light.
“From a fresh lick of paint to storing away clutter, every little helps when so much weight rests on the photographs of your property,” said Kevin.
When it comes to pricing, it’s tempting to go gung-ho but this isn’t necessarily the best tactic.
“You want to get a good deal, but you need to be realistic too,” he said.
“Ensure your house is just that little bit better priced than other houses you’re competing with.
“If you start out wanting £40,000 more than your rivals, you’re unlikely to get a sale. Price yourself right and you will sow the seeds for a productive marketing campaign.”
If you remain unsure about the figure, use a ‘guide price’ to allow no definite maximum selling point.
“With the right approach, you can easily get offers in excess of the guide price.”
Having encouraged potential buyers to come to your home, it’s vital sellers don’t take their foot off the gas when they come to view.
“It is important to sell a lifestyle, whether it be a warm and inviting family home, or that perfect holiday cottage ideal for summer parties,” said Kevin.
“Help buyers visualise moments in your life to make them think ‘this is us’.
“Providing a narrative can be one way to build a successful relationship with a buyer and secure a sale.”
Price is one of the most decisive factors.
“It’s imperative to conduct some thorough research of your own to ensure you’re well placed in 2014’s competitive market,” said Rod.
“Look at your house objectively and ask yourself what the deciding factors that drew you to the property were. Once the unique selling points of the property have been identified, make sure they stand out.”
The experts also offered these tips:
First impressions are vital. Buyers have often made up their mind on a house within five minutes, so dressing your house well and making it clear that each room has a function will go a long way to establishing a good impression.
Spend time de-cluttering rooms. Ensure outside spaces and gardens are well presented and appear as spacious as possible.
Choose the right agent as a good agent will be able to give you realistic advice on the local and national market and leave the negotiations to them.
Finally, try to keep calm throughout the whole process. A viewer will enjoy visiting a house with a happy atmosphere and an owner who does not seem desperate to sell.