Get Ready for a New Year Property Sale: Start Preparing Now
As the year winds down, you might be thinking of starting fresh in the new year—perhaps by selling your property. While it’s tempting to wait until January to start planning, the holiday season is the perfect time to begin preparations for a successful property campaign in the new year. Here’s why acting now can set you up for success and help you stand out in a competitive market.
1. Trades and Repairs: Don’t Let Delays Hold You Back
First impressions matter in real estate, and ensuring your property is in its best condition is essential. Whether it’s repairing that leaking tap, repainting the walls, or tidying up the garden, small improvements can make a big difference to buyers. However, with many tradespeople taking a well-deserved break over Christmas and New Year, scheduling repairs and maintenance work can be challenging.
Start organising trades and suppliers now to avoid delays. Many trades book out quickly for January as they catch up on postponed work, meaning waiting until the new year could result in missed opportunities to launch your property at the ideal time. By addressing repairs and updates now, your property will be ready to shine when the market picks up.
2. Solicitors, Councils, and the Importance of a Complete Contract
In addition to preparing your property physically, having a complete and accurate contract for sale is critical to launching a property campaign. However, many solicitors and councils close for Christmas and often take time off throughout January. This can create delays in obtaining the necessary paperwork and certificates, such as zoning information, council approvals, or compliance certificates.
Starting the process now ensures that your solicitor has sufficient time to prepare the contract and request any additional documentation required. Being proactive will prevent frustrating delays and ensure your property is ready for buyers as soon as the new year market heats up.
3. Meet Your Agent and Get a Market Appraisal
December is an excellent time to connect with a trusted real estate agent for a market appraisal. This allows you to gain a clear understanding of your property’s value, current market conditions, and how to position your home for a successful campaign.
The process of selecting an agent and receiving an appraisal often requires careful thought from the owner. You’ll need time to review recommendations, consider suggested improvements, and discuss marketing strategies. By acting now, you’ll have the time to make informed decisions and hit the ground running with a well-prepared campaign in January or February.
4. Beat the Post-Holiday Rush
The new year often sees a flurry of homeowners rushing to get their properties on the market. Many suppliers, including photographers, stylists, and trades, experience high demand after the Christmas break, leading to delays in booking essential services.
Starting your preparations early ensures that your property will be market-ready while others are still catching up. By being proactive, you’ll have access to the best resources and avoid the bottleneck that occurs as everyone else scrambles to list their homes.
5. Capture Holiday Buyers and Expats
The holiday season is an ideal time to attract visiting international and national buyers and expats. Many people take time off in January, allowing them more time to research potential new homes or investments. Expats visiting family in Sydney may also be actively looking for a property while they’re in town.
By preparing your property for sale now, you can appeal to this additional market. A well-timed marketing campaign can capture the attention of these buyers, setting you apart from competing properties who delay until later in the year.
The Key to Success: Start Now
Selling a property successfully requires thoughtful preparation, from ensuring your home is in top condition to crafting a compelling marketing campaign. By starting now, you’ll be ready to launch your property at the best possible time, ahead of the January rush and with every detail taken care of.
Not sure where to begin? Contact our team today for expert advice and a customised strategy to make your new year property sale a success. Together, we’ll ensure your home stands out in the market and achieves the best possible outcome.
Whatever your real estate needs, please contact us - we would love to help!