At VSL, we specialise in helping people transition to new homes. With our team’s extensive experience, we provide honest, accurate, and comprehensive advice on navigating the property market and achieving a successful house sale. We leverage up-to-date market research and forward-thinking strategies to equip our clients with the tools they need to make the most of their property sale.

As a new, innovative, and passionate agency, we aim to fill a gap in the industry by emphasising the importance of working with an agent who genuinely cares about your unique circumstances and property. The housing market is continually evolving, and understanding why homes either succeed or falter in the market involves considering several crucial factors.

We believe that four factors are paramount when it comes to selling homes:

1. Marketing Strategy: This is the cornerstone of your property’s presentation. An experienced agent, who specialises in selling homes, is best equipped to craft an effective marketing strategy. It involves how your property is described, and while your input is valuable, it’s essential to provide factual information rather than opinion-based details. Compliance with Consumer Protection Regulations is stringent, so accuracy in disclosure and presentation is vital so don’t volunteer to do the write up yourself because it will be biased and not done in the same manner as the experts. Be very careful who you choose as your agent as many have fallen foul of old school tactics like overvaluing, bestowing the virtues of their large offices or client base or even carpet bombing you with leaflets on how wonderful they are at their job although Google reviews will give a more accurate depiction of the truth. Get one agent and get it right first time because the consequences of a wrong decision could subsequently result in huge disappointment and further frustrations with the world of estate agency when ultimately you decide who you sell with.

2. Condition: The property’s condition in relation to its price is a critical consideration. Assess whether there are substantial repairs or maintenance needed that could potentially devalue the property. Consider investing in improvements to enhance its condition and maximise its value. Even if your property is in impeccable condition, remember that buyer preferences may differ from your own.

3. Location: The property’s location is a non-negotiable aspect. Consider its proximity to transportation links, amenities, school catchment areas, natural landscapes, and recreational areas. Location plays a significant role in motivating buyers, so it’s essential to recognise its importance. Highlight any unique selling points associated with your property’s location, such as historical significance or memorable experiences.

4. Price: The biggest section of all….. Confucius once wisely said, “Your house is worth what it’s worth, not what you want it to be worth.” Pricing your property correctly is crucial. It’s only worth what someone is willing to pay, and our role as agents is to present it in the best possible light to attract the right buyer. While we can employ effective marketing strategies, the demand for your property ultimately depends on the market. Surveyors can often undervalue homes, so a realistic pricing strategy is essential. The decision regarding the listing price of your home ultimately rests with you, regardless of how many agents you consult. It’s imperative to exercise caution, as some estate agents may be inclined to inflate asking prices in pursuit of larger commissions or corporate targets. However, should they overvalue the property and fail to generate interest, they may subsequently recommend a price reduction as a strategy to attract potential buyers. It’s crucial to remain vigilant and avoid falling into this common trap. Setting a realistic price for your home is of utmost importance. An overly ambitious asking price could discourage potential buyers, while undervaluing the property might mean not realising its full market value. Ideally, you’ll attract numerous interested buyers, fostering competition that naturally drives up the selling price. If you’re seeking a swift sale, it might be prudent to consider adjusting the price. This approach is generally more cost-effective than waiting for a sale at the original asking price or resorting to a quick house sale company, which typically offers less than the market value.

It’s important to acknowledge that not all properties will sell at their asking price. While some may indeed sell at or above the asking price, maintaining a realistic outlook is crucial. Don’t be disheartened if your property sells for less, particularly in the challenging market conditions that have prevailed since late 2022, during which the market has experienced a significant decline.

The value of a property doesn’t always align perfectly with its price. Various factors, such as the number of bedrooms, size, and location, significantly influence its value. However, additional elements, such as the timing of the sale, can affect the final price. While a recently sold neighbouring property can serve as a useful reference point, it’s important to rely on the expertise of your agent for accurate valuation.

Remaining objective and impartial as a homeowner can be challenging, especially when online valuation tools have influenced your initial perceptions. Market trends reveal that certain times of the year present unique challenges for property sales. The period leading up to Christmas often sees potential buyers postponing decisions until after the festive season, while the summer holidays can result in a quieter market, prompting sellers to consider price adjustments.

Historical events, whether national or international, such as elections, conflicts, economic crises, and pandemics, can also exert significant influence on property prices. Staying informed about these factors is essential to make informed decisions regarding your property sale.