You've decided to sell your home in East London. Now what? There's a lot more than planting a "For Sale" sign on your lawn and calling it a day. This is a tremendous undertaking, and you'll want to understand the local property market, apply best practices, and get through the sales process with expert help. Chantell Johnson, Candidate Property Practitioner, shares her sales insight to help put your house on the market and sell it successfully.
Navigate the current property market
According to Johnson, now's the time to sell your East London property. Because of the low interest rate, eager buyers are better empowered to snap up property. With such high demand, property prices are currently rising, giving sellers higher than normal prices.
The vibrant property market is reflected in the demographics. "Statistically, the largest demographic currently buying is black female," says Johnson. "I'm seeing that reflected well in my market's buyer profile. I'm also seeing tenants exploring the market to become first-time homeowners and families looking for homes with multigenerational possibilities."
Tips for selling your house
As property choices are influenced by personal needs, sellers should ensure their homes are as inviting as possible, advises Johnson.
"The most cost-effective way to increase the appeal of your home and get results that offer maximum impact is to ensure that it is clean, neat, and tidy. This sounds simplistic but the impact of a clutter-free home cannot be overstated. Look at your home from the perspective of the buyer. Nothing increases the appeal of a home more than open spaces."
First impressions count, so ensure your property is properly marketed to get it sold quickly. "Follow the two P's - preparation and pricing. Preparation is key. Before you go to market, ensure that you have beautiful photos, that the description of the property is well written, and your agent has all the information an interested buyer would possibly want. Pricing correctly is vitally important. A properly priced property will move fast," says Johnson.
Unpacking the property sales process
The approach to selling property varies from home to home. However, a property practitioner like Johnson is key to making the process as smooth and effortless as possible.
"For me, it's most important to understand my seller's needs. Therefore, my process begins with a cup of coffee and a chat. Thereafter, I begin the process of collecting information. This includes a proper listing, asking pertinent questions, advising my seller on what to expect going forward, agreeing on a marketing plan and only then are we ready."
Having a property handled by an experienced seller agent is important as the sales process can become complicated. Johnson points out the documents you'll need to have as a seller:
- The title deed which, if the property is still bonded, will be with the bank that financed the current owner.
- Certificates of compliance which include electrical, gas, wood borer and dry rot, electric fences, and anything else which is requested by the purchaser and agreed to by the seller.
- Copies of invoices and warranties are helpful for any renovation and large-scale repairs. For instance, if you have replaced the roof recently a buyer will want evidence of that.
- FICA documents to establish and verify your identity as a way of combating crime as per The Financial Intelligence Act.
With the Property Practitioners Act now in effect since 1 February 2022, sellers will also need to abide by the new law.
"Sellers are now required by law to disclose all defects or anything that could result in expense or discomfort to the buyer down the line," says Johnson. "The regulations include a mandatory disclosure form which requires sellers to answer a series of questions. The seller has to certify that their answers are correct. This form then comprises part of the sale agreement."
Get help from a property practitioner
With so much to consider, selling your home can feel overwhelming. Johnson encourages potential sellers to avoid doing it privately but trust in the assistance of qualified property practitioners.
"At Century 21 East London, we provide advice on the correct price for the property, the condition of the property, what needs to be fixed/renovated, and guidance on the interior design of the property. We will even arrange pet babysitting services for viewings to assist our sellers.
"We are a team of highly skilled and passionate individuals who work together to realise a successful sale for you as a seller. Century 21 East London property practitioners are guided by Mario Raffa and Margie Dillin who hold us together as a family and who reflect and hold us accountable to our core values of family, innovative, awesome, integrity, and professional."
Rise up to home with Century 21 East London
Century 21 East London understands a real estate transaction whether buying or selling will be one of the most important decisions of your life. Johnson says the branch is well prepared to help you rise to the challenge.
"Owning property and a home in South Africa is an aspirational dream for many of our people and for others it is the epitome of success. At Century 21 East London, we are here to help you rise up to home and ensure your dreams are well within reach. There is no greater measure of success than providing a home for your family or selling that house to start an exciting chapter, so come on - rise up with Century 21, South Africa!"
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