Before You List your Property for Sale
Confirm why you’re selling and your ideal timeframe
Decide if you need a specific settlement date
Confirm whether the property is:
- Freehold Home
- Apartment or Terrace House in a Body Corporate? You will need to prepare all documentation from the Body Corporate i.e. AGM minutes, Center rules. Levies, annual accounts etc
- Is the property rented out? If yes what are the terms, confirm length of rental before listing, understand notice periods required for viewings and selling
- Rural or lifestyle property
- Does your property have development potential? Is the true value of the property as a re-development site?
Legal & Disclosure
Engage a solicitor early
Confirm all owners can and will be available to sign the contracts
Check title for easements or restrictions
Ensure accurate disclosure is prepared
Incorrect disclosure can allow buyers to terminate the contract.
Compliance Check
Pool safety certificate (if applicable)
Are smoke alarms compliant with local laws
Building approvals for extensions, alterations and additional sheds etc all in place
Any unconsented works to building or property must be disclosed up front
Any known hazards on the property
Financial Preparation
Understand agent commission & marketing costs
Check mortgage payout figure and any penalties or fees if breaking a fixed interest term
Consider capital gains tax (if applicable)
Know your real net outcome
Presentation & Marketing
Declutter and clean house thoroughly, presentation is everything
Remove all rubbish and any unnecessary furniture or ornaments
Complete minor repairs. Don’t do any major upgrades without consulting your agent as it could be money spent unnecessarily
Tidy gardens and external areas, cut back large hedges or trees, let in as much natural light as possible
Arrange for larger pets to be removed from the property during viewings
Agree on marketing strategy with your agent
Choose auction or private treaty to suit your goals
Offers & Contracts
Review the full contract, not just the price
Check conditions, settlement date and deposit
Be cautious of long or open-ended conditions, make sure you are comfortable with the contract, if unsure ask your solicitor
Get legal advice before accepting any contract
Before Settlement
Maintain property condition and if anything changes advise the property agent and purchaser’s solicitor immediately
Complete agreed repairs and show invoices and receipts
Allow final inspections for new purchaser
Confirm settlement adjustments