October 21, 2020 - Noel Jones

In Real Estate, almost nothing goes hand in hand better than spring and the Melbourne property market. But in keeping with the theme of 2020, even this is looking a little different this year.

As part of Melbourne’s reopening roadmap, we have now seen private inspections and auctions recommence, as well as property appraisals. So, what can you do to prepare for an upcoming sale?

Research agents
This is the perfect time to do your due diligence in relation to who you’re going to entrust the sale of your most valuable asset to. There are a variety of different ways that you can do this which include doing online research on a number of websites including realestate.com.au, domain.com.au and Rate My Agent. Look at client testimonials, the types of properties they’re selling in your area, previous sales history and metrics like average days on market and auction clearance rates. Also ask family and friends who have sold homes who they used, and what their experience was like.

Once you have made a short list, make contact with the agents and arrange a time to meet with them, either over the phone or digitally. Discuss their thoughts on a campaign for your home and ask them about their marketing strategy in this climate; many will recommend incorporating virtual tours into your sales plan to compliment high quality imagery and floorplans.

Although this is potentially not as ideal as a face to face meeting, you’ll still get a good gauge from a remote meeting, and as many transactions and negotiations are now held remotely online, you’ll get a feel for how your agent will present to potential buyers.

Do all the odd jobs
We often start things, and although we have good intentions, they don’t always get completed. This is the time to rectify this! Complete all the DIY projects you’ve been ‘meaning to get around to’, fix anything that is broken and take the time to do a really thorough decluttering; when it comes to moving, you’ll be thankful to have to pack and move less boxes.

Once you have done this, clean the home till it shines. This includes wiping marks off walls, and cleaning light switches, power point covers, skirting boards, windowsills, light fixtures and all wet areas. It’s important to also clean windows and fly screens; these can have a huge impact and should not be neglected. Once you’ve done this, walk through the home and look at it objectively; try to see it as a buyer would.

Online styling consults
These are something that can be done in person, or remotely on Facetime or like programs. A consultant can give you invaluable advice on furniture placement to make your space look larger, and decorating tips to highlight the home’s features and potentially hide its flaws. If you need items to see these visions come to life, you may be able to hire them from the styling company, or alternatively, you can purchase them online choosing either a ‘click and collect’ option or home delivery.

Don’t forget outside
With uncertainty about how much we will be out and about over the coming summer, outdoor areas are going to be move important to buyers than ever before. This means starting with the homes frontage to create the all important ‘curb appeal’ and continuing through to rear gardens and entertaining areas. Gardens should be well-maintained and grass should be mowed and edged.

Spring gardens are easy to create by planting some bright coloured annuals, and these colours can be matched with any outdoor décor. Decking or paving should be swept and if possible high pressure cleaned. Any roofed structures should be well maintained, especially as alfresco entertaining areas have become even more popular in recent years.

Using your time wisely now will see you ready to reap the benefits of your hard work as soon as you’re ready to list your home for sale. Property photography, floorplans, videos and copywriting are also allowed under the current restrictions so once you’ve chosen an agent and gone through the appropriate steps, you’ll be ready to go.

If you would like to discuss the marketing or presentation of your home we’re just a phone call away. Visit noeljones.com.au/offices to find your local Noel Jones agent.

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