Do not be caught off guard by the hidden costs of selling a property
The excitement of selling a property is often accompanied by a lack of awareness about the intricate financial aspects involved. First-time sellers are often caught off guard by the many often-overlooked hidden costs and need to be prepared for all the extra expenses, says Antonie Goosen, Principal and Founder of Meridian Realty.
Goosen says sellers should start by obtaining an accurate valuation through a professional real estate agent to set a reasonable asking price, allocate funds for repairs, staging, consider real estate agent commission, and budget for comprehensive marketing and advertising while understanding the legal and conveyancing fees involved in the process of selling your property.
He says determining the market value of your property is the pivotal starting point when selling. “Collaborate with a professional real estate agent to ensure an accurate appraisal, enabling you to establish a reasonable asking price. This critical step helps avoid the pitfalls of overpricing or under-pricing. Presenting your property in the best possible light is essential to attract potential buyers. Allocate funds for minor repairs, fresh paint, and home staging to enhance its visual appeal. When working with a real estate agent, be mindful of the commission fees, usually a percentage of the sale price. This factor should be considered from the outset. If selling privately it's essential to budget for various additional expenses, including professional photography, website listing costs, legal and contract fees, and promotional materials," says Goosen.
According to Goosen sellers need to understand the legal and conveyancing fees involved. “Selling property involves a multitude of legal processes. Seek the services of a conveyancing attorney or firm, but be prepared for the associated fees".
Goosen underscores the importance of recognizing often-overlooked costs when selling a property. "Be prepared for potential expenses associated with home inspections or appraisals, which buyers may request before closing the deal. Sellers may incur various closing costs, including security estate exit levies and capital gains tax, dependent on the location and property's value.
"Don't underestimate the costs associated with transitioning from your current residence. Whether you hire professional movers or handle it yourself, these expenses can accumulate. Until the property changes hands, you will be responsible for utilities, maintenance, and property taxes. Allocate funds to cover these ongoing costs. In some instances, selling property may trigger capital gains tax obligations. It is crucial to understand your tax responsibilities and seek professional advice for compliance. Lastly, keep in mind that there might be negotiation expenses. Be prepared for negotiations with buyers, which may include covering some of their requests for repairs or concessions. These costs can impact your overall profit," says Goosen.
According to Goosen the message is clear: selling a property is not solely about setting an asking price and waiting for offers. It involves meticulous budgeting for various expenses, both apparent and concealed, ensuring a successful and financially prudent transaction. “With the right preparations and a comprehensive understanding of these costs, first-time sellers can confidently navigate the real estate market and achieve their desired outcomes,” says Goosen.
According to Arnold Maritz, Co-Principal of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s international Realty, who earlier this month shared 10 proactive steps you can take as a home seller and explained there are essentially two primary types of delays when selling a home; the first relating to the confirmation of the sale and those that occur once the sale has been confirmed and hold up the transfer.
Here is a look at what Maritz had to share:
“Once the potential minefield of multiple complex steps, reams of documentation along with suspensive conditions and contractual obligations has been successfully navigated and the deal is finally done, many people breathe a sigh of relief.
“But the deal isn’t quite done yet and the expected downhill cruise to transfer can still become an uphill battle if one isn’t careful.”
He says that many of these delays can quite easily be avoided or resolved through good communication and prompt co-operation with the transferring attorney and agent but if sellers have addressed the following points, they can offset many problems before they occur:
1. Have Approved House Plans Ready:
If you've made structural changes to your home, such as adding a room or renovating the kitchen, ensure that you have all the necessary permits and approved house plans ready for potential buyers.
Buyers often want to see these documents to verify that the work was done correctly and legally and getting plans approved with the Council can take many months which is probably a lot longer than most buyers would be willing to wait.
2. Get Your Certificates of Compliance Done:
If you are even thinking about selling your home at some point in the near future, it’s a good idea to get a head start on your compliance certificates.
Property owners are required by law to ensure that the property is legally fit for sale and before the transfer can take place, the transfer attorney must be in possession of the relevant COCs and, although the process is quick and simple, if there are any major issues to be addressed, it could delay or even scupper the sale.
3. Complete Repairs and Inspections in Advance:
Before listing your home, conduct a thorough inspection to identify any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks and address these issues in advance to prevent them from becoming deal-breakers during negotiations.
4. Organise Financial Documentation:
Gather all essential financial documents ahead of time and if there are outstanding liens or debts on the property, work to resolve them before listing. Having your financial affairs in order can expedite the closing process.
5. Price Your Home Realistically:
Overpricing your home can lead to extended time on the market, resulting in frustration and potential financial losses.
Work with an experienced real estate agent to determine an accurate and competitive listing price based on market conditions, recent sales in your area, and the unique features of your home. A well-priced home is more likely to attract serious buyers quickly.
6. Declutter and Stage Your Home:
A cluttered or poorly presented home can deter potential buyers and prolong the selling process. Invest time in decluttering, depersonalizing, and staging your home to make it more appealing to a wide range of buyers. A well-presented home not only sells faster but may also command a higher price.
7. Be Flexible with Showings and Negotiations:
Being inflexible with showing schedules or negotiations can discourage potential buyers and lead to delays. Be open to accommodating reasonable showing requests and be willing to negotiate in good faith. A flexible approach can help maintain the momentum of the sale.
8. Secure a Qualified Real Estate Agent:
Selecting the right real estate agent is crucial in avoiding delays and frustrations. Choose an experienced agent with a strong track record and local market knowledge as they will guide you through the process, manage expectations, and proactively address any issues that arise.
9. Anticipate Buyer Contingencies:
Buyers often include contingencies in their offers, such as home inspections, appraisals, or financing approval. Be prepared for these contingencies and ensure that your home is in good condition to pass inspections and appraisals. Clear any potential roadblocks to financing approval, such as unresolved liens or disputes.
10. Be Ready to Negotiate Repairs:
After the home inspection, buyers may request repairs or concessions. Be open to negotiating these requests to keep the deal on track. Addressing concerns promptly and reasonably can prevent delays caused by disagreements.
“A well-prepared and organised approach to selling your home is essential for avoiding frustrating and costly delays and by taking these proactive steps, you can increase the likelihood of a smooth and timely sale,” says Maritz.
Original Article: https://www.property24.com/articles/do-not-be-caught-off-guard-by-the-hidden-costs-of-selling-a-property/31951