Are you getting ready to sell in Spring?

Spring is usually a busy time in Melbourne for those thinking of selling or buying

In order to make the process as smooth as possible here are some things you can do to get ready to sell your property in Spring.

Make your House Picture Perfect

First impressions count, so start packing and decluttering as soon as you can. You want your house to look as attractive as possible for prospective buyers. Cluttered houses often look smaller than they really are, so decluttering creates an illusion of space making your house feel larger. If this seems too overwhelming, ask for help. There are many service providers that can assist with getting your house prepared for sale. Property stylists, packing and decluttering services, landscape gardeners and real estate agents can provide tips that may be beneficial in preparing your house for sale. It’s also an opportune time to have a working bee with family and friends, and perhaps even a garage sale to get rid of unwanted clutter.   

Choose your Real Estate Agent

If you have been looking to sell for some time you may already have developed a relationship with a real estate agent who you will use for the sale of your property. If not, start researching or asking around for some referrals for a Real Estate Agent. Ask friends or trusted colleagues about their experience and who they would recommend. When selling your property, you are likely trusting your real estate agent with your biggest asset so it is important to get this decision right, and select someone who you are completely comfortable with, and who can guide you through the process.

Have your Contract of Sale & Section 32 Vendor Statement ready

It’s ideal to instruct your Conveyancer or Property Lawyer at least 2-3 weeks prior to putting your home on the market. That way the Contract of Sale and Section 32 Vendor Statement will be ready for your first open for inspection. Things that your conveyancer or property lawyer may need from you to Complete a Section 32, Vendor Statement include:-

· Details of any structural or non-structural works completed to the property over the last 7 years.  There may be further requirements in this respect and your Conveyancer or Property Lawyer will be able to guide you;

· If your home was built less than 7 years ago there are additional requirements around providing Domestic Building Insurance, Occupancy Permit and Building Permits.  Now is a good time to locate each of those so that they are ready to provide.

· Copy of pool/spa registration and pool/spa barrier compliance;

· Any easements or covenants on the property and checking to ensure that there has not been any non- compliance;

· What services are or are not connected.

 What you need to know about Section 27 Deposit Release

If you are relying on the release of the deposit from the sale of your property to purchase your new property, you need to ensure that you are aware how the Section 27 deposit release process works, so that there are no unexpected surprises that leave you in an unfortunate financial predicament. There are a number of requirements that must be met if you wish to apply for the early release of your deposit. You should discuss with your Conveyancer or Property Lawyer at the time of instructing them that you would like to access the deposit prior to settlement so that they can step you through the process and discuss whether you meet the appropriate criteria. There is a common assumption that your deposit can just be released once the Contract of Sale is unconditional however this is not always the case and in most circumstances, not that common.

If you are purchasing a new property make sure you have your Contract & Section 32 reviewed before you sign

Before you make an offer and sign a Contract of Sale purchasing your new home it is extremely important to have the Contract of Sale and Section 32, Vendors Statement looked over by a Property Lawyer or Conveyancer. They will review and advise you of any matters which may be detrimental or that you may need to look into further, prior to purchasing the property. This will allow you to have a comprehensive understanding of the property and to make an informed decision about whether this is the right property for you. Selling your property is a big moment in your life, so preparation is the key, and surround yourself with a team that can support you in getting your desired result.

And don’t forget to take a moment to stop and smell the roses.