Estate agents are often asked by sellers if they should make improvements to their properties before putting it on the market. Sellers in these instances intend to make their properties more appealing to potential buyers, and thereby hopefully attracts higher offers.
Gerhard van der Linde, MD of Seeff Pretoria East says that careful consideration must be given to this question, and offers the following advice.
Most improvements to a property will certainly add value, but one must make sure that the cost of the improvements makes financial sense. Often sellers put far too much money into revamping their homes before listing them for sale. They tend to repair and improve things that a buyer might not notice and more importantly, will not pay extra for.
There are many small changes that are more cost effective and that will make a property more desirable. One cost effective manner to create a better impression is to declutter a house. Potential buyers imagine themselves living in a house, and often a house which is cluttered does not create a favourable impression. Stuffed closets downplay what may be ample storage. If you can't part with things permanently, rent a storage unit so you can pare down for showings.
A simple coat of paint in a neutral shade is a great place to start.
The front door is the first thing potential buyers see. Consider the importance of a first impression, and see if the door can be repainted, repaired or even replaced.
A neat garden is a definite positive for potential buyers, and do make sure that the swimming pool is clean. Clear weeds, edge sidewalks and trim trees and bushes. Water features should be in working condition, and preferably running at the time of showing.
If any fixtures in the house will be removed after selling, do so before the house is put on the market, and replace it with something suitable if necessary. Buyers do not want to discover at the time of making an offer that items will be removed.
Make sure that all the lights are in working condition, and have them switched on a the time of a showing. Open the curtains and maximise the amount of light that can enter the house.
Van der Linde says that the aforementioned will certainly assist in making a house more marketable, but finding a willing and able buyer is only one part of a successful transaction. Ensuring that the process of registration of transfer takes place without delays, is just as important.
Your estate agent will assist in giving advice on a number of matters, which include giving notice to the bank of your intention to cancel the bond (in order to avoid penalty interest when applicable), requirements regarding municipal approved plans, compliance certificates in respect of electrical installation, gas certificate as well as electric fence certificate.
Ensuring that these are complied with prior to accepting an offer, will go a long way in expediting a successful transaction.