Could your neighbour affect your property sale?
When selling a home, most homeowners prioritise the property’s appearance to ensure that it makes a good first impression. But what happens when the issue isn't actually your property, but the people living next door? According to Adrian Goslett, CEO and Regional Director of REMAX Southern Africa, when prospective buyers are looking at purchasing a property, they’re also taking note of the neighbourhood and the quality of life that comes with investing in it.
"A home might tick every box on a buyer's wish list, but if they're concerned about the noise levels, unpleasant surroundings or difficult neighbours, they may think twice about making an offer," explains Goslett. “Even if a buyer loves the home itself, these are things that they know they won't necessarily be able to change once they've moved in so they may decide that the potential inconvenience simply isn't worth it.” Goslett further notes that if buyers are concerned about disruptive behaviour from next door, they may be reluctant to pay the full asking price. In some cases, sellers may need to reconsider their pricing expectations to attract serious interest.
“You can renovate a kitchen, repaint a bathroom but you can’t change your neighbours. That's why the surrounding environment can play such an important role in a buyer’s decision-making process," he says. Fortunately, there are steps sellers can take to help minimise the impact of difficult neighbours on their property sale:
· Have a friendly conversation. If your neighbour’s behaviour is causing issues, try speaking to them openly and politely about your concerns. They may not realise that their actions are affecting others.
· Report ongoing disturbances. If a neighbour refuses to cooperate, you can report the issue to your body corporate or local municipality, depending on the nature of the complaint.
· Improve your property's privacy. Installing fencing, screening or strategically placed plants can help minimise the visual impact of neighbouring properties and create a more private, inviting outdoor space.
· Focus on what you can control. Make sure your property is clean, well-maintained and presented in the best possible condition. Emphasise the strongest features and the positive aspects of the surrounding neighbourhood.
· Work with an experienced property practitioner. A knowledgeable agent can help sellers navigate potential challenges, recommend suitable marketing strategies and establish a realistic asking price.
"While you can't control who lives next door, you can take proactive steps to address certain issues and ensure your property makes the best possible impression. Working with an experienced property practitioner can help you navigate these challenges and give your home the best chance of attracting the right buyer," concludes Goslett.
