Selling a house is a complex transaction that requires seriousness and preparation. Here are 10 tips to make it happen quickly and hassle-free.
1. Choose your real estate broker carefully
Make sure you find one you trust and who will meet your needs. A recognized broker having to deal with dozens of properties might, for example, not be suitable for sellers requiring high availability. Consult those around you for recommendations and meet more than one candidate before making your choice. And make sure that your future ally knows your sector thoroughly and holds a valid license from the Organisme d’autoréglementation du courtage régional du Québec (OACIQ).
2. Set a realistic price
A price that is too high will dissuade potential buyers and extend the time it takes to sell your home. This is why it is important to set a realistic and competitive selling your house selling price. You can do this by comparing your home to those that are for sale or have recently been sold in your neighborhood.
3. Marketing effectively
Marketing a house must be organized and efficient! Take advantage of the different windows to promote it: specialized newspapers and magazines, classified ads, websites and social media. Display as many photos as possible showing your home in its best light and from all these angles! You can also entrust your marketing to a real estate sales company without an intermediary. Do you have an agent? He will take care of this aspect.
4. Clean from top to bottom
Every homeowner should do a thorough cleaning before opening the door to visitors. Windows, carpets, walls, ceilings, seals around the bathtub and sinks…, your property must be free of dust, dirt and bad odors. First impressions have a considerable impact on a potential buyer’s perception of their visit.
5. Maximize the value of your property
Real estate professionals are unanimous: by making your home welcoming, you help it find a buyer. To create a good atmosphere, follow the rules of home staging. Purify and depersonalize your decor, harmonize and refresh your interior, repair visible defects and focus on sober and relaxing lighting.
6. Be transparent
The watchword: transparency. Did water infiltration occur last spring? Even if you repaired the damage, mention the incident in your declaration. This will allow you to avoid possible legal proceedings. If you have any doubts about the condition of your home, have it inspected before listing it for sale.
7. Know your rights and obligations
Did you know that a seller is responsible for defects in his house, even if he did not know of their existence? Familiarize yourself with the sales processes, rights and obligations of the seller and buyer. Several reliable resources to inform you: CAA-Québec housing advisors, the OACIQ, Éducaloi and lacopropriété.info
8. Learn all about paperwork
If you wish to sell on your own, consult in advance the forms (promise to purchase, annexes, etc.) that will be used during the property sale process. You will thus be able to read and demystify without pressure – and not in the euphoria caused by a tempting offer – all the subtleties of these legal documents. If questions remain, consult your notary or the OACIQ website for information.
9. Sell first, buy later
Are you planning to buy your future property before finalizing the sale of your house? This practice – unfortunately, quite common – could cause you to lose a lot… What if the interested person withdraws their offer after inspecting your property? What if no other buyers showed up at your door? You could be forced to lower your price, or worse, have two homes on your hands.
10. Follow your broker closely
Have you retained the services of a real estate broker to assist you in your efforts? Make sure it works for you! Demand a weekly report of his activities by asking him about the number of calls received and the comments that visitors may have sent to him. Ask for his advice, ask him about his marketing strategy, in short, take an interest in his work!