Top tips on when how to market your home for the best returns.

Summer has officially arrived, holidays are around the corner, and those much-awaited year-end bonuses are on the horizon. With people starting to unwind, having a bit more time to reflect, and some spare cash in their pockets, many are on the hunt for a new home - making it the perfect time to list your home. 

While peak selling periods differ per region, late spring and early summer listings tend to fare well as properties and gardens are typically looking more attractive at those times. It is also more enjoyable for prospective buyers to view homes during this season. 

With the end of the year approaching, people who are relocating will be looking for properties so that they can settle in before the new year starts. You are also likely to face less market competition as many other sellers might be away on holiday. 

The more potential buyers you can reach increases your chances of selling your home at a good price. Having a knowledgeable and experienced estate agent to help you effectively and strategically market your property goes a long way in getting you a good price, too. 

A good estate agent will help you stage your home to make it even more attractive to potential buyers, but here are some tips on how you can start the process: 

1. Start with curb appeal. 

First impressions matter, so make your home stand out the instant buyers pull up to the curb. Make sure your pavement is looking clean and tidy and try to fill empty beds with shrubs or flowering plants. Make sure your house number is visible. 

2. Do a mini kitchen reno

They say that kitchens sell houses, which means you want to make sure that yours is ready to impress. You don't need to go to extremes to spruce up your kitchen. You can start by showing off your storage and packing away small appliances that clutter your countertops. Then put in some elbow grease to make sure it's extra sparkly and clean. 

3. Go easy on the furniture. 

Clutter is a sure way to deter potential buyers. Remove any unnecessary furniture to give your home a spacious feel and to allow your viewers to move around freely and take in the best features of the house. 

4. Create a functional space. 

With WFH and homeschooling being commonplace these days, many buyers are looking for a functional space where they can get their work done without the typical home distractions.

5. Depersonalise your space. 

Buyers want to be able to see themselves in your home, so be sure to pack away excess photos, kids' artwork, and personal mementos and replace them with bright and generic artwork that will be suited to any home. 

6. Make sure your home smells good. 

A pleasant smell can have an immediate effect on the way we feel and think. Just think of freshly baked bread. Get your viewers in a good mood by making sure your home smells fresh.

Now that your home is looking great, you need to reach your potential buyers. 

Here are some tips on how to increase your reach: 

1. Have an experienced estate agent market your home. They have vast networks and means to promote your property. 

2. Take professional photos of your home. 

3. Create virtual tours and videos to showcase all the features of your home. 

4. Share your listing on social media - regardless of how many followers you have. Ask your followers to like and share your posts for increased visibility. 

5. Enhance your listing with information. The more information you can give on the property, the more likely it is to attract potential buyers. 

Try all these tips to increase your chances of selling your home. Remember that your chances of getting a good price for your property are always higher when you enlist the services of an experienced estate agent!