Need to sell your home fast? Here’s how to close quickly
RE/MAX SA shares some strategies sellers can try if they are in a hurry to get their home sold fast.
Selling a home quickly can feel daunting, especially under pressure. There are many reasons for needing a fast sale, whether to avoid missing out on a home you’ve just put in an offer for, job relocation, or simply wanting to avoid the extended stress of a lengthy selling process. Regardless of the reason, the right approach can expedite the sale significantly.Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, explains that property remains a great investment due to its potential to appreciate, provide rental income, and, if the need ever arises, you should always be able to sell it to recoup your initial investment. “If you have purchased a property in a desirable enough location, you should have little trouble selling quickly when the time comes,” he states.
When pushed into a situation where you want to close a deal fast, Goslett suggests taking a flexible approach to pricing. “Setting a flexible, competitive asking price is essential when aiming for a speedy sale. Ask your real estate agent for insights into local real estate trends and comparable properties, then price your home somewhere within your market's range. Avoid aiming for the highest possible price, as this can significantly limit buyer interest and prolong the selling process. A moderately lower, competitive price can spark interest quickly and encourage multiple offers, potentially driving the final price higher through competition,” Goslett explains.
Maximum exposure
Beyond this, Goslett stresses the importance of first impressions. Homes gain maximum exposure within the first 24 hours of being listed on property portals. This is because most portals share alerts with users when there are new listings that meet the users’ search criteria. When you need to sell fast, it is not a wise idea to take shortcuts and avoid the use of a professional photographer and possibly even a home staging service. You need to do all you can to ensure those listing photos draw buyers in immediately,” he stresses.
“It goes without saying that the better condition the home is in, the broader the appeal it will have among buyers and the quicker it is likely to sell. If you don’t have the time to get the home in top condition, then you may need to compromise on price to attract a quicker sale,” he notes.
Other, more aggressive strategies could also be considered if you are in a true rush to sell. If you are up for trying something different, speak to your real estate agent and find out if it would be worthwhile to boost your listing on the agent’s social media platforms or to try an out-of-the-box marketing stunt like leveraging a local influencer or hosting a themed open house party.
“Whatever strategy you try, my advice is to rely on the guidance of your chosen real estate professional. Experienced agents understand local markets intimately, have established networks, and possess negotiation skills that can significantly streamline and expedite the selling process. Trusting their advice can save you valuable time, reduce stress, and increase your chances of a swift and successful sale,” Goslett concludes.