What is your property worth?

One of the most important decisions you need to make when selling your property is setting the price. Your local real estate agent will conduct a market opinion on inspection of your property which will provide a true estimate.

Be wary of agents who say they can archive a high price without substantiating it with facts. Always remember that agents interpret the market, they do not create it. Over pricing is the most common reason properties fail to sell.

The market opinion will be made based on evidence from:

Data sources, for example, property data;
Recent advertisements;
Recent sales negotiated by the office
Sales made by other agents; and/or
Any valuation from a registered valuer

It is important that you agree on the price set and the agent believes it is realistic. If the price is unrealistically high enquiry will be limited and the property will not sell.

Method of Sale

There are several ways you can choose to sell your property. The most common are auction or private treaty. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages. Your agent will advise on the best method for you based on the type and location of the property, nature of the market and the preferred time frame.

Selling your property

Before your property is officially put on the market there are several matters you must cover. There are legal requirements to be satisfied, a marketing plan to arrange that will attract people to your property, and you must be prepare your property for sale.

Agency Agreements

When you engage a real estate agent to sell your property, you must sign a contract called an agency agreement. This is a legally binding contract authorising an agent to act on your behalf in relation to the sale of your property.

Contract of sale

Before a residential property can be sold a contract of sale must be prepared. The contract must include all documentation relating to the property as required by law in each State or Territory. Your agent will explain the required documentation for your property.

Reaching buyers

Marketing plays a vital role in achieving a successful sale. A carefully planned, well executed marketing plan will bring the best result. Your agent will recommend a marketing campaign that is suitable for your property. The program will set out a promotional period, various media to be used and campaign costs. The agent is responsible for carrying out the campaign.

Preparing your home for sale

First impressions are lasting so the presentation of your property is critical in creating a strong initial interest from potential purchasers. A good guide to styling your home is to remove everything that is not absolutely essential. Your agent will be able to advise you of any changes that should be made to your home that could add value or increase the attractiveness of your property.

For simple suggestions that will improve the presentation of your property and help you achieve the best possible price, please refer to "Preparing Your Home" on our website under "Vendors and Purchasers". A Raine & Horne agent can also provide you with the right advice.

Seller's guide

Why use a real estate agent?

The key to successfully selling your home is choosing the right real estate agent - a professional with local market expertise and experience selling property. They can provide up-to-date information on pricing, financing, marketing and the housing market in general.

Throughout the sale an agent will act on your behalf, providing advice and guidance to help you evaluate buyer offers.

Selecting an agent

When choosing an agent you should consider the reputation of the real estate agency, the sales agent's track record in real estate, recent sales and knowledge of the local area.

On a personal level you should consider how agents present themselves and the rapport you have with them. When selling your home you want someone you can communicate openly with and trust.

The advantage of a national and international real estate network over independent operators should not be overlooked. At Raine & Horne, clients have immediate access to specialist advice and promotion through our invaluable inter-office referral system.

For properties requiring exposure and successful marketing beyond the local market place, our network of offices throughout Australia and internationally are called into action.

Selling Your Home