7 questions to ask yourself when preparing to sell

Selling your home is one of life’s most significant financial decisions. Whether moving across the city or relocating to a new area, the process can be daunting, but planning ahead can mean an excellent result and an exciting new chapter of life. 

Here are seven key questions to ask yourself beforehand to make your home sale run more smoothly and ensure the best possible outcome. 

1. What is the market doing?

The property market can be unpredictable, and timing your sale is essential for maximising profit. Therefore, you need to understand current market conditions and what might happen next. Having a finger on the market’s pulse is critical to making an informed decision, and a knowledgeable local real estate agent who deeply understands the area’s nuances can provide valuable insights on topics like:

• Buyer sentiment, which varies dramatically depending on current interest rates, economic conditions, and recent property trends. What is attendance at home opens like? How about recent sales? As local agents, we can give you a clear, on-the-ground insight into what’s happening with home sales. 
• Potential buyer fatigue (meaning fewer offers on your home), which can set in during times of intense competition or inflated prices.
• Whether buyers are actively looking for comparable properties in your area.
• Current market conditions and trends. Is it better to hit the market sooner rather than later?

2. Do I want to stay in the area or move somewhere new?

If you're staying in the Northern Districts, consider why: do you want to remain close to family, work, or your children’s schools? Or is it simply because you love your neighbourhood? 

Alternatively, a move to a different suburb or city could offer new opportunities, a different lifestyle, or more affordable housing options. Your plans impact everything from future property type to sale urgency and budget.

3. What are the must-haves in my next home?

Your next home’s non-negotiable features might include extra space for your growing family or less space if downsizing. Consider your must-haves in terms of layout, size, and features, such as a backyard for kids or pets, an open-plan kitchen and living area, or a home office or double garage. Knowing your must-haves streamlines your future property search.

4. How can I maximise my home's value before selling?

Presenting your property in the best light is crucial to getting the best price. Consider staging, renovations, maintenance, and addressing safety concerns like pool upkeep and smoke alarms. Simple updates like repainting, fixing structural issues, or replacing outdated fixtures can make a significant difference. 

An experienced local real estate agent can help you identify areas where you can add value without overcapitalising. 

5. How much can I borrow?

Knowing your borrowing capacity gives you a clearer idea of your budget and helps you set realistic expectations. Factors like age, equity, and current interest rates impact your borrowing power. Speaking with a mortgage broker or your bank early on is a good idea to clearly understand your financial position. 

6. What will my selling costs be?

Selling a property involves more than just pocketing the sale price. There are several costs to consider, such as real estate agent fees, stamp duty, and potential capital gains tax if selling an investment property. 

Understanding these upfront costs helps you manage your expectations and avoid unpleasant surprises. An experienced local agent can walk you through typical costs for selling in your area.

7. How will I prepare for the move on a practical level?

Moving is always a logistical challenge, so it's worth planning ahead to make the process smoother. Start by asking yourself how much help you’ll need and if that includes professional removalists. It’s also never too early to start decluttering and organising. 

Furthermore, consider the timing of your move in relation to the sale, as you may need to organise temporary accommodation.

By asking yourself these questions, you'll be better prepared to make informed decisions about selling your Northern Districts home. 

Are you thinking of selling?

The experienced Page&Co team is here to provide valuable local guidance and support throughout the entire sale process. Please feel free to get in touch - real estate is our passion as well as our business, and we are always happy to chat.