Selling a home is one of the most significant financial transactions a person can make. Top Just Property agents give prospective sellers helpful advice on how to best prepare their properties before putting them on the market.
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Voetstoots still exist but disclosures are mandatory
In terms of the Property Practitioners Act, the property owner must disclose to their agent and potential purchasers (or tenants) everything in or on the property that is defective, causing problems, or is not approved.
“Sellers should have their home professionally inspected to determine any potential defects and share this info with the buyer,” says Maureen Escreet, Sales Property Practitioner at Just Property Queensburgh.
All “latent and patent defects” must be listed on the mandatory disclosure form, which needs to be signed by all parties. (A latent defect is one that an inspector would not easily find, whereas a patent defect can be easily discovered, explains Carin and Nico Howell, Property Practitioners from Just Property Heidelberg.)
“Sellers should be aware that the mandatory disclosure document does not represent a guarantee and prospective buyers (or tenants) will still want to conduct their own due research,” says the Howells. “As long as the seller discloses all defects in detail, there is no need to worry about any future comebacks post-sale.”
The seller and purchaser will agree to what items on the disclosure form should be fixed.
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What you should fix before selling
“This is dependent on the actual potential value the property can obtain, the cost to repair as well as the expectation of the seller,” says Sheriese Potgieter, Sales Property Practitioner Just Property Queensburgh.
“You don’t have to fix everything but it’s worth getting input from your property professional on which defects, when fixed, will help you achieve a higher selling price,” Carin advises.
Rhoda Dangazele, Sales Property Practitioner at Just Property Berea notes that “the kitchen is the main area that will allow for a higher return on your home, so make sure that it is in great condition.”
“You might prefer to leave all defects as they are and rather drop your asking price,” says Nico, but you don’t want defects to put potential purchasers off.” He has seen keen buyers back away from a leaking roof, damp, mould, and mildew in the bathroom, unmatched or cracked tiles and flaking shower ceilings. “Sort out problems like these, or at least get quotes from local specialists, handymen, or builders.”
What you shouldn't fix
“There is no hard and fast rule of what sellers should or should fix,” says Maureen. “Be guided by the extent, value, and time to repair items as this may affect your selling price.”
Dumisani Sibisi, Sales Property Practitioner Just Property Queensburgh agrees. “While fixing certain items can improve your selling price, the expense must be carefully considered. The cost of unnecessary repairs may not be recouped.”
When making these decisions, Carin advises, always consider the maximum selling price for a similar property in your area. “You don’t want to overcapitalise.”
“It’s a good rule to only fix things that are broken rather than wasting money on cosmetic items,” says Barbara Engelbrecht, Sales Property Practitioner at Pretoria North. “Focus on the little things that will ensure the property looks cared for; these include hinges, cupboard handles and curtain rails. Ensure that all taps are not leaking as well.”
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Low-cost improvements that will help sell your house
“Curb appeal is extremely important - those first impressions last,” says Margaret Msimango, Sales Property Practitioner at Pretoria North. “It’s important to present a neat road frontage and entrance.”
“Most purchasers are looking for a well-maintained property,” agrees Dumisani. “Yard cleaning and general tidying inside can assist in getting the results sooner, as can sensible paint touch-ups.”
Dangazele concurs: “A fresh coat of paint for dirty and untidy walls will do wonders to assist with selling a home or apartment. Declutter living areas, bedrooms and kitchens and stage the home so it has a neat but ‘lived-in’ feel. Outside, make sure garden areas and driveways look appealing.”
“For more ideas to make buyers fall in love with your home, download our guide here,” says Gayle Gratwicke, Operations manager at Just Property Berea. “But remember to consult with a property specialist before fixing anything. They are the experts at what sells and will guide you on improvements that add value to your home and will ensure a return on your investment.”
“Finally, the most important aspect of selling a home is the price,” says Dumisani. “It must be reasonable, or you will turn buyers away. Consider the market value, the condition of your property and the location. Choose an agent who is an expert in your area, then trust them and be willing to negotiate.”
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