When it comes to selling your property in Sussex, here are 5 mistakes that could be the difference between landing that golden goose buyer – or being left out to dry along with all the other dull listings:

1. List with an experienced Sussex agent: Ensure the person doing the viewings has lived in the area, knows it well, and is able to convey their passion for the area during viewings. Buyers will ask questions pertaining to location, so ensure the agent is well versed on local pubs, schools, supermarkets, parks and more. Choosing an out of county agent runs the risk of not managing expectations nor telling a story that helps the buyer see themselves in the home.
2. Overvaluing your home: Whilst we are achieving plenty of sales at full asking price, Sussex sellers who go with the highest valuing agent run a risk of not getting the traction of consistent viewings that are so desperately needed. Sure there is a chance of success, but in this market it’s far better to achieve regular footfall – and therefore varied offers – than standing out and hoping the odd viewing will convert into an offer.
3. Using a cheap estate agent: In a buoyant market, there’s a case to be made for saving on fees and letting ‘the house sell itself’. However, the risk here is that the agent support is lacking, as is their negotiation ability. This can be costly. Close, personalised support and feedback can be the difference between selling and not. This may cost a few thousand more, however the end result should be 2, 5 or 10 times that amount in your back pocket – and in quick time, too.
4. Ignoring the value of video: While expert photography can help generate a flow of buyers viewing, video brings your listing to life in a way photos never could. Allow the buyer to visualise living there before they even step foot through the door. That water feature in the garden or the birds singing: record them in all their glory and let the buyer feel the scene without any effort on your part. Different tones of video can appeal to different audiences, be it informal social media videos, to classy professional takes that appear on portals.
5. Thinking you know better than a good estate agent: You probably know your property better than your Horsham or Sussex estate agent, but you likely don’t have their marketing, negotiation, homestaging, viewing or follow up expertise. A good agent brings together all disperate components and produces an environment most receptive to the best possible offer. Listen to their advice and work together towards success.

It’s easy to assume you know best as the homeowner, and in many ways, you do. But an estate agent can be pivotal support in your quest for an offer on your property and should be an invaluable ally. Transparent, honest, direct and effective communication – backed up by gorgeous marketing – should drive you towards the finish line, well on your way to your next chapter and new 4 walls.

Thanks,

James