Selling a property: The 5 most important tips for owners

Clear goals for a smooth sales process

Whether you are moving abroad, changing your place of residence within Switzerland or experiencing family or financial life changes: The decision to sell a property is usually not an easy one. You may have put a lot of work into your home, raised a family in it and have many memories of your home. The initial thought-provoking impulse is the symbolic first domino in the chain of the sales process. Without a nudge, the chain will not start moving.

To avoid drowning in a sea of questions later on, the first thing you should do when deciding to sell is to be clear about your own goals:

• What are my motivations for selling my property?

• What selling price would be acceptable to me?

• How long should the sales process take?

• What professional help would I like during the process?

These considerations will serve as a solid foundation for you to tackle the next steps and stay focused throughout the process.

5 tips for a successful real estate sale

1. what is my property worth?

As soon as you are clear about your goals and wishes for the property sale, the first concrete step follows: the valuation of your property. For a quick and uncomplicated calculation, you canusean online tool such as the one fromAgent Sellyn. You can calculate the market value of your house or apartment in just 3 minutes. Or you can have an independent valuation carried out by a real estate consultant of your choice. A distinction is made between the hedonic method and the income capitalization method.

The hedonic method calculates the property value on the basis of various quality features and the value of comparable properties. It is inexpensive or even free of charge and can be determined in a short time.

The income capitalization method is suitable for properties that generate income, such as apartment buildings, hotels or commercial centers. In addition to the actual value, the calculation includes future achievable returns as well as maintenance costs.

Make sure that you receive an accurate value for your property. This is the only way you can position yourself in the market with a realistic and competitive sales price.

2 Should I hire a real estate consultant?

Selling a property involves a lot of work and time - from pricing, marketing and viewings to closing the sale. An experienced real estate consultant will be at your side throughout the entire process and can take some of the pressure off you. Not only the expertise of your estate agent, but also their established network will play into your hands.

Other reasons why working with a real estate consultant is worthwhile:

• Professional or private commitments:While you are otherwise engaged, your consultant takes care of calls, viewing appointments and administrative work. So you can continue to devote yourself to your everyday life undisturbed.

• Professional help pays off especially when you are selling a property for the first time. The risk of costly mistakes or legal pitfalls is too great. A professional knows the pitfalls of the sales process and is very familiar with all the procedures.

• Time is money:Most real estate sales have to be completed by a certain deadline. Your estate agent will ensure that the process is efficient and that the sale is completed on time.

• Distance to the property:If you don't live near your property, the sales process is usually time-consuming. A local estate agent can arrange regular viewings, even at short notice.

3. how and where should I market my property?

Successful marketing begins with a targeted presentation. Professional photos and an appealing advertisement are essential to attract potential buyers. Make sure that your property is in top form. Think in advance about who your potential buyer target group is and which channels you want to use. Again, you don't have to go it alone. Your estate agent can support you with the marketing.

4 How do I negotiate the optimum sales price?

Sooner or later it will come down to the nitty-gritty: the price negotiation. This requires sensitivity and negotiating skills. Here, too, working with a real estate consultant brings a lot of added value. She knows which arguments count, knows the market values and can get the best possible price for you. A cool head and perseverance are essential, especially in bidding processes. You should also try to put your emotions about the property aside during this step. This is the only way to remain objective and complete the sale with confidence.

5 What are the legal and contractual aspects?

The sale is nearing completion. Now contracts, legal documents, taxes and fees await you and the new buyers. A notary will prepare the purchase contract, which you should check together with a lawyer. The purchase is only legally valid once the purchase contract has been signed and publicly notarized by the notary. As an additional safeguard before the reservation agreement, you can ask the buyers for a financing confirmation from the bank. Find out at the outset what costs you will incur during the sale to avoid any surprises. Here is a brief overview:

• Notary fees

• Legal fees

• estate agent fees

• Marketing costs

• Land registry taxes

• Transfer tax

• Debenture fees

• Property gains tax

• Valuation report

• Energy certificate

Please also bear in mind that these costs vary from canton to canton.

Your quick checklist for an overview

A checklist can help you not to overlook anything. It is best to write your own list with the specific details, cost points and a realistic time frame for your property.

Here are the key points in brief:

• Have your property valued

• Check broker support

• Set up professional marketing

• Develop a realistic pricing strategy

• Observe legal aspects and contracts

Conclusion: A clear plan and the right support

If you are selling a property for the first time or have a busy work schedule, a qualified estate agent is your golden ticket to selling a property. Rely on professional support and get ano-obligation consultation now to sell your property successfully with a clear plan and a strong partner behind you.