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Selling Tips

After choosing an agent, the most important decision you will make is determining the right asking price for your property. This is a challenging decision, since if you set your target too high you may miss out on buyers by pricing yourself out of the market: Too low, and you could lose money and have regrets. Remember, though, agents do not set property values. The market does. The benefits of pricing right include:

  • your property attracts more qualified buyers, and sells faster
  • your home doesn't get 'stale' on the market and you don't have to drop your price over time
  • a well-priced property can generate competing offers
  • agents will enthusiastically present your property to buyers.

When determining the value of your home, follow these simple steps:

  • keep your eye on the real estate section in the newspapers, comparing the descriptions of properties in your area, to monitor maximum and minimum selling prices
  • talk to a professional. Peter Blackshaw Real Estate agents have excellent insight, extensive knowledge and understanding of current market activity, as well as access to up-to-date sales information

Once you have a reasonable idea of what your property is likely to sell for, don't forget to calculate the costs of selling such as:

  • preparing your property for sale (landscaping, painting, redecorating)
  • handling costs related to sale (agent's commission, advertising costs, legal expenses)
  • the repayment of an existing loan (if applicable).

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Deciding how to sell your home or property

Auctions

Auctions are an increasingly popular way to sell. They encourage a sale within a specified time frame so you can plan ahead. They also create more competition and a sense of urgency. There is no upper price limit with auctions, but there is a deadline, usually after your property has been heavily marketed for around four weeks. Peter Blackshaw Real Estate pioneered property auctions in Canberra, and has more experience with auctions than any other local agent. Our Principal Auctioneer has been the winner of the REIACT Auctioneer of the Year award three times.

Private treaty

Some properties sell better by private treaty, or sale at a price. Sale by treaty can lead to excellent results and has the following advantages:

  • there is no deadline
  • you nominate the asking price, based on the market research you have conducted and based on the market research provided by your agent
  • it is a straightforward process
  • it may make you feel more comfortable if you are not in a rush to sell.

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Agreeing on a marketing plan

Peter Blackshaw Real Estate will work with you to develop an individual marketing plan, since each property is unique, and every area and every street is different. We'll outline what has sold in your area (maximum and minimum prices) and what advertising works for your area. We'll advise on what will be the most effective strategy for your property, given current market conditions, and help you assess in detail whether auction or private treaty is the best method. Our reputation for marketing and advertising is built on years of providing customers with the full range of promotional products, including eye-catching and full-colour brochures and advertisements, the use of two websites, flyers, postcards, letterbox drops, mail outs and signboards. We take our newspaper advertising seriously, working hard to continually secure a prominent position in The Canberra Times' Property Guide.

Preparing to show your home

First impressions are lasting and the right impression can dramatically increase the prospect of a sale at the right price. Your Peter Blackshaw agent can help you make sure buyers looking at your home are left with the best possible impression. Here are some simple steps for making sure your home is ready to show:

  • trim and tidy the garden, including weeding and edging and sweeping paths and driveways
  • clean windows and make sure your front door is clean, well maintained and welcoming
  • clean up inside: a soft brush and a damp cloth can work wonders to brighten up your home, brush away cob webs, loose dust from window frames and sills
  • hire a cleaner for a few hours or a day: this can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you are short on time
  • bring paintwork back to life with touch-ups or a fresh coat
  • consider updating low cost items such as cupboard door handles for a refreshed look
  • make sure the house is well aired to remove odours such as pet and cooking smells
  • remove clutter and ensure your furniture doesn't restrict movement around the house
  • tidy up inside your cupboards as buyers will check for storage space
  • lock away valuables
  • keep pets out of the way
  • add welcoming touches, such as fresh flowers and soft music
  • make sure your agent knows about the property's features

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