The process of selling your home is relatively simple … isn’t it?

Surely it’s just a matter of selecting an agent, erecting a “For Sale” board, getting some buyers to come through, negotiating on some offers, choosing the winning party, moving out, handing over the title and receiving the funds.

Well, unfortunately, it’s not always that simple!

Often, the first step in the process has a huge impact right the way through to settlement day.

Generally, the first step is to select your agent. Once you’re comfortable with your agent selection, there are a couple of ways to ensure that your property sale stays on track.

1. Have regular update meetings with your agent. Whether they are face-to-face or over the phone, it is important to check to see how your property is going.

What marketing is being undertaken? What feedback have you received from the market? What offers have you received? And if you’re going to auction, how many interested parties are there?

2. Look at your competition. Keep an eye out for any new homes that have come onto the market that your ideal buyers might also be interested in.

How do these homes compare with your own in terms of presentation, marketing and price? Checking in with the competition ensures that you’re up-to-date and that you’re not missing out on any vital elements.

3. Measure the number of days that your property is on the market. Your home doesn’t need to be on the market for more than three months if it is correctly marketed and well priced.

So if you find that your property is getting past the 60-day mark, call a meeting with your agent and confirm a new strategy to get energy back into your campaign.

Often, this has been the key driver for vendors to choose an auction campaign, as it sets a date for the sale, identifies clear marketing – ie advertisement dates and open-house times – and provides regular face-to-face contact with your agent to keep you informed and up-to-date with market changes and price feedback.

Look for ways to make your home attractive. If you find that it’s on the market longer than you think it should be, look at all the factors. Think through what you can do to get the sale on track and be prepared for an open conversation with your agent.

Ask this simple question: “If it were your home, what would you do to get it sold?”

And most importantly, be prepared to listen and take advice.

We often represent owners who have been on the market before for prolonged periods. Generally we find that these owners are pleasantly surprised that we are able to achieve some great results in relatively short time frames by paying attention to these key areas and not dragging out the sale process.

Great prices, clear marketing programs that get results, and an honest, open and transparent relationship with clients is what makes the difference in a smooth, efficient and rewarding property transaction.