Neighbours are like family: you can’t choose them, but you do have to live with them. And when you’re trying to sell your home you might wish they weren’t there at all.

So, how do you convince a potential buyer that they’re not a problem?

Well, that depends how big or small your problem is.

Perhaps they practice the trombone each afternoon on the porch, have never ending renovations, or are compulsive hoarders with a junkyard encroaching on your garden.

Maybe it’s far worse – websites like neighborsfromhell.com document some pretty extreme cases.

Here are our tips on how to work around some common neighbour problems when selling:

Talk it over

Your first port of call in resolving any neighbourhood problems should be to talk it over and try to reach a solution that suits you both.

While you might want to seek legal advice about your rights and how to go about fixing the situation, the Law Society of NSW says that going to court can be both expensive and leave the parties bitterly antagonistic towards each other. Always consider mediation and pursue legal action as a last resort.

If you’re trying to sell, pay the neighbours a visit or slip them a note explaining the issue and tactfully suggest how they could help. If they’re owners, remind them that getting a good price for your home will mean a better price for them down the track.

Remember: unless you’ve approached them before they might have no idea that their behaviour is impacting on you, and there might be a reason for it. Maybe their yard is messy because they’re suffering a long term illness or caring for a relative? Try and see it from their perspective.

Is it legal?

Are your neighbour’s problem activities illegal?

There are the really obvious ones: drugs, domestic violence or harassment. But did you know that burning off is illegal? Trespassing without authority on your land is also illegal.

However, you usually have no legal right to privacy, unless it comes with intimidation or harassment. Check with your local police or council if you’re unsure.

Stop that noise!

One of the most common problems is noisy neighbours: loud music, parties, power tools and wooden floors in the unit above to name just a few. Check your local council’s guidelines on noise, the Environment Protection Authority, or the strata bylaws if you’re in a unit.

Let your neighbours know in advance when your home will be open for inspection, and ask nicely if they’d mind keeping the noise down during that time.

If it’s an ongoing problem and you don’t think this would work (maybe you live next door to a piano teacher with regular Saturday classes) work around it with your agent by scheduling open homes at times that are quietest.

Give us some privacy

If privacy is an issue there are many cheap remedies.

Install curtains or blinds on windows, plant a hedge, strategically place some pot plants, build a higher fence, install a privacy screen or ask the neighbour to stop standing on that milk crate and popping their head over the fence every five minutes…

Parking disputes

In inner city areas parking is often contentious, with the street becoming a battleground. Maybe your neighbour has a boat, skip or trailer parked on a permanent basis. Can they store it elsewhere while your home is on the market?

Make sure your own car is not in front of your house – or driveway – on open day. And the agent can let prospective buyers know its ok to part in your car space.

Call your strata manager

Living a unit block can give you an edge: you can approach your strata manager if there is a specific problem – after all, it probably impacts on other unit owners and the value of their units will be determined in part by a good sale of yours.

Common strata problems are noise and smoke drift. Let your neighbours know when open home is scheduled and ask if they’d mind removing their shoes, turning the stereo down and refraining from smoking on balconies while it’s on. A little box of chocolates might help sweeten the deal.

Set your boundaries

A top cause of neighbourhood disputes are boundary problems – specifically trees and fences.

Trees can overhang fences, disrupt views, and their roots can cause damage to paths and pipes on surrounding properties. If you have these problems check with your local council for their regulations in the first instance.

While there’s no legal obligation to have a fence, most people like a little something between them and their neighbour, and most buyers want it to be in good condition.

The cost of installing or repairing a fence is typically shared by both parties. If a fence is not on the legal boundary disputes can arise, particularly when selling. The onus is on the buyer to have a survey.

Presentation incentives

While you can’t do anything about the colour or design of your neighbour’s home, you might be able to tidy it up a little.

Steve Arnold of Andrews Property in the NT told us: “As a selling agent we offer incentives to adjoining properties to make them motivated to present their yards better.”

“When we list a property we always say hello to the neighbours, its part of our due diligence.”

He also notes any potential issues at the neighbour’s house that could turn off buyers. Presentation is everything so Steve has removed rubbish, including vehicles, and sent gardeners round. He’s also cut deals with neighbours who weren’t on good terms with his client, so that they wouldn’t hurt a sale.

Be a good neighbour yourself

What goes around comes around. If you’re looking for good karma from your neighbours you might want to give them some love too. Getting to know your neighbours can be one way to prevent troubles further down the track.

What do you need to let your buyer know?

Short answer: nothing, unless they ask. The onus is on the prospective buyer to do their research, which, if you’re a buyer, is why a good conveyancer or lawyer is so important.

Problem neighbours are very subjective. What might be considered annoying by one homeowner might be considered delightful by the next.

You’ll know instinctively (and you agent will confirm) whether you’ve got an issue on your hands. With their help, and the above gameplan, you should get through unscathed, and move on to new neighbours.

This article was originally published on
18 Jan 2013 at 11:26am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

A typical home-selling timeline runs about 10 to 15 weeks from listing to closing. Add prep time, photos, and building the listing, and the whole process often lands closer to 4 or 5 months. 

However, that timeline is heavily influenced by your local market, your home’s price and condition, and how quickly the buyer’s financing and closing process comes together. In the last year, the median home spent around 44 days on the market before going under contract, with about 30% going under contract within two weeks of listing, according to Redfin.

But finding a buyer is only one part of the timeline. Preparation often starts weeks before a home ever hits the market, and the under-contract and closing period adds more time after you accept an offer.

How long does it take to sell a house?

In tight, low-inventory markets, homes can go under contract in a week or two. In markets where sellers currently outnumber buyers—and there are more of those markets right now than there have been in years—homes may take 6 weeks or longer to go under contract.

Price point matters too. Entry-level homes in a given area might move faster than luxury listings, since the buyer pool is larger. The best way to get your own realistic timeline is to ask your agent how comparable homes in your specific neighborhood and price range have been selling over the last 30 to 60 days.  

No timeline fits every seller, but these ranges are a starting point. 

6 to 8 weeks before listing: Plan the sale

1. Decide whether and when to sell

When this happens: Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before listing, or earlier if you’re also buying a home. 

Before you do anything else, sit down and think things through. Why are you selling? When do you need to move? Are you also buying a home, and if so, does that sale need to close first? What do you still owe on your mortgage, and how much equity do you have? Would you need temporary housing or a rent-back arrangement if your sale closes before your next move is ready?

When you should sell is highly personal, but spring has long marked the start of the homebuying season—nationally, homes listed in late April are more likely to sell faster, according to a Redfin analysis. 

2. Estimate your home’s value and potential proceeds

When this happens: Before you commit money to repairs, staging, or another home. 

Before you spend money on repairs or staging, get a realistic sense of what you’ll actually walk away with:

• Estimated market value: what your home is likely worth today, based on recent comparable sales
• Listing price: the price you choose to ask, which may be set above, at, or below market value depending on strategy
• Final sale price: what a buyer actually agrees to pay
• Mortgage payoff: what you still owe your lender
• Selling expenses: agent compensation, closing costs, repairs, and other costs of the transaction
• Estimated net proceeds: what’s left for you after everything else is paid

A simple way to estimate your proceeds:

Expected sale price − mortgage payoff − selling costs = estimated net proceeds

This number can tell you whether selling actually supports your next move, before you’ve spent any money on getting the home ready to sell. 

3. Choose how you’ll sell and hire an agent

When this happens: Often 4 to 8 weeks before listing, but more complex homes may need longer time with an agent. 

Sellers generally choose between working with a listing agent or selling for sale by owner (FSBO), depending on how much of the process they want to handle themselves.

Some sellers only need a few weeks to get ready; homes needing contractor work, permits, or extensive prep may need several months of lead time. Reaching out to an agent early, even before you’re sure of your exact selling timeline, gives you room to plan around whichever situation you’re in.

4. Gather documents and calculate selling costs

When this happens: Begin early, since some records can take time to locate or request. 

Start collecting paperwork early so it doesn’t slow you down later. Depending on your property and local requirements, you may need:

• Mortgage and payoff information
• Property tax records
• HOA documents, if applicable
• Permits and renovation records
• Warranties on major systems or appliances
• Previous title or survey documents
• Required property disclosures
• Utility or maintenance records
• Lease documents, if the home is tenant-occupied

You’ll also want a rough sense of what selling a house may cost you, including agent compensation, seller-paid closing costs, repairs, staging and preparation, moving expenses, your mortgage payoff, taxes or HOA charges, and any concessions you negotiate with a buyer. 

4 to 6 weeks before listing: Prepare the home 

5. Decide what to repair before selling

How long it may take: A few days for minor fixes to several months for larger projects, permits, or contractor-dependent work. 

You don’t need to renovate the whole house before you list it. Depending on your situation, you can complete visible or high-priority repairs, get estimates for larger defects, sell the home in its current condition, offer a credit instead of doing the work yourself, or consider an optional pre-listing inspection, if recommended by your agent.

You also don’t necessarily need a major renovation to attract buyers. Vanessa Leimback, a Redfin Premier agent in Seattle, has noticed buyers stretched thin by high mortgage payments would rather pay more for a move-in-ready home than take on renovation costs themselves. Condition still matters, but addressing obvious problems, not a full remodel, is usually enough to widen your buyer pool. 

6. Clean, declutter, stage, and prepare to move

When this happens: Begin about 1 month before listing and finish the final details in the week before launch. 

This is where the home starts to look ready for buyers, and when the moving process begins. Remove unneeded furniture, pack up what you won’t need before the move, deep clean, and improve curb appeal. Stage the rooms that matter most to buyers, like the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen.

About one month before listing: pack, finish repairs, arrange a deep clean, and tidy up the exterior and landscaping.

One to two weeks before listing: finish staging, schedule photography, confirm showing instructions with your agent, and clear out valuables and sensitive documents.

1 to 2 weeks before listing: Set the price and create the listing

7. Set the listing price and launch strategy

When this happens: Finalize the price shortly before launch so it reflects the newest competing and recently sold homes. 

Pricing your home is one of the most important decisions in the entire selling process. A well-researched price weighs recently sold comparables, competing listings, your home’s condition, local buyer demand, and current inventory. It should also account for the price brackets buyers search within, how quickly you need to sell, and appraisal risk if your buyer is financing. 

“Sellers should resist the urge to price based on what a neighbor got a year or two ago,” says Chen Zhao, Redfin’s head of economic research. “Pricing a home correctly from the start can be the difference between attracting a serious buyer and lingering on the market.”

A few common pricing mistakes: pricing based on what you originally paid, trying to recoup everything spent on renovations, padding the price with “negotiating room,” relying just on automated estimates, or leaning on older comps instead of recent ones.

None of this means you should price below market, but that results vary by location, and you shouldn’t assume buyers will bid above asking just because that happened often in past years. Nationally, about 20% of listings had a price drop and 26% sold above list price in mid-2026. Your own comps will tell you which outcome is more likely for your home. 

8. Create the listing and marketing materials

How long to allow: Several days to coordinate photography, listing copy, floor plans, and launch logistics. 

Once your price is set, focus on how buyers will actually experience your listing online and in person. Professional photography makes a big difference, and so does an accurate, detailed description. Floor plans or a virtual tour help buyers get a feel for the layout before they visit, and your MLS listing should clearly state property details and any recent improvements. Decide on your showing schedule and whether you’ll hold an open house, then plan your launch date.

List your home and accept the offer

9. Launch the listing and manage showings 

How long it may take: The national median is 44 days from listing to going under contract, although the timeline varies widely by market. 

Once you’re live, keep the home consistently show-ready, accommodate reasonable showing requests, and have a plan for pets during visits. Ask your agent to collect feedback from buyers’ agents after each showing, and compare your activity with similar nearby listings to get a sense of how you’re performing.

In the summer 2026 homebuying season, only 31.5% of homes went off market within two weeks of listing. A fast offer is possible, but most homes aren’t selling in the first weekend. Plan for a longer showing period rather than judging your listing after just a few days.

10. Reassess the strategy if the home is not selling

When this happens: When your listing is getting less activity than similar nearby homes or isn’t generating the interest you expected.

A slower-than-expected sale doesn’t necessarily mean you need to start over. Homes are taking longer to sell in today’s market, and some sellers are pulling their listings after failing to attract a buyer at the price they wanted. Delisting isn’t a guaranteed fix, though. It’s just one potential option, and what to do next depends on why your home isn’t selling in the first place. 

11. Compare, negotiate, and accept an offer

How long it may take: Some negotiations resolve within a day or two, while counteroffers, multiple offers, or complex terms can extend the process. 

Once offers start coming in, don’t just focus on the price. Every term in an offer affects either your proceeds, your risk, or your selling timeline.The strongest offer is usually the one that combines acceptable net proceeds, contingencies you can manage, credible financing, timing that works for you, and a reasonable likelihood of actually reaching the closing table.

Concessions are common right now, so expect some negotiation. Sellers gave concessions in 46.2% of U.S. home sales in May 2026, most often to help with repairs, closing costs, or mortgage-rate buydowns, and almost 16% of sales included both a concession and a price drop. 

Complete the under-contract process and close

12. Navigate the inspection, appraisal, and closing process

How long this takes: On average, between 30 to 60 days from accepted offer to closing

Not every accepted offer makes it to closing. Buyers may still back out of a deal during the under-contract period, depending on their contingencies and the terms of the purchase agreement.

In July 2026, 14% of homes that went under contract nationally had their sale agreement canceled before closing, the highest rate in years, partly due to buyers having more options and being willing to walk after inspections, low appraisals, financing changes, or unsuccessful concession negotiations—meaning the best offer for you might not be the highest price.

Here’s how the under-contract stage roughly unfolds:

The buyer deposits earnest money

Once you accept an offer, the buyer deposits earnest money with a neutral third party, such as an escrow or title company, within 1 to 3 business days. This good-faith deposit is applied toward the buyer’s down payment or closing costs if the sale closes. If the buyer backs out for a reason that isn’t protected by the contract, the seller could be entitled to keep the deposit. 

You provide any remaining disclosures

Seller disclosure requirements and timing vary by state and local laws, and some disclosures might be required before you accept an offer. Work with your agent or real estate attorney to understand what you’re required to disclose and when.

The buyer completes inspections

Most buyers will schedule a home inspection and sometimes specialized inspections for things like the roof, foundation, or pest activity. Depending on what’s found, the buyer may request repairs, ask for a credit or price adjustment, decide not to go ahead with the purchase, or go ahead with no changes or requests at all.

The lender orders an appraisal

If your buyer is financing the purchase, their lender will usually ask for an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan amount. If the appraised value comes in at or above the contract price, this step usually moves forward smoothly. If the appraisal comes in low, you and the buyer have a few possible paths: renegotiating the price, the buyer covering the gap in cash, or in some cases, the deal falling through.

Title and buyer financing move forward

While the appraisal and inspection processes are taking place, a title search is also taking place. This checks for liens or ownership issues that need to be resolved before closing. The buyer’s lender is also completing underwriting, finalizing insurance requirements, and confirming any remaining loan conditions. Contingency deadlines in the contract keep this stage moving on schedule. Any issues that come up during this stage may affect the closing timeline or, depending on the contract, whether the sale moves forward.

You complete agreed-upon work

If you agreed to make repairs as part of the negotiation, keep receipts, use licensed professionals where required, and finish the work by the deadline in your contract.

The buyer completes a final walkthrough

Shortly before closing, the buyer will typically do a final walkthrough to make sure the home is in the expected condition and any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.

You close and hand over the home

At closing, the final documents are signed, transaction costs and remaining mortgage balances are settled, and ownership transfers to the buyer. When you need to move out and hand over the keys depends on your contract, including any agreed-upon rent-back or possession period.

How to help the home-selling process move faster

None of these steps guarantee a fast sale, but they tend to help:

• Price from current, local market evidence rather than what you hope to get.
• Start repairs and document gathering early, well before your target listing date.
• Avoid unnecessary renovation projects that won’t drastically move your price.
• Keep the home consistently available for showings.
• Make your listing complete, accurate, and well-photographed.
• Respond to offers and requests quickly.
• Look at the certainty of closing and timing across offers, not just price.
• Complete agreed-upon repairs before your contractual deadline.
• Keep your own moving plans flexible if possible until the transaction actually closes.

All-cash sales don’t necessarily follow the typical home selling timeline. Because there’s no mortgage underwriting, a cash offer may be able to close faster than a financed transaction, sometimes in a matter of weeks. Selling directly to an investor paying cash or an iBuyer could also trade speed and certainty for a lower sale price, since these buyers are often accounting for repair costs and resale risk in their offer.

The bottom line

Selling a house is really three overlapping timelines: prepping the home, time on the market, and getting to closing. How long each one takes depends on your home, local market, buyer, and contract terms. Your home selling timeline probably won’t match the national average exactly, and that’s fine. Building your plan around all three stages can give you a more realistic idea of when your sale will actually be complete, rather than focusing only on how quickly you receive an offer.

Whatever your reason for selling, whether you’re downsizing, upsizing, moving suburbs, states, or countries, knowing your suburb can be the key to targeting the right buyers.

It was hard enough figuring out how to buy that house in the first place wasn’t it? But with that done, how on earth do you go about selling it?

Know your suburb

Knowing your own suburb, from a real estate perspective, can help you understand who might want to buy your house. Knowing what’s selling around you for what price can give valuable insight and help you make sense of some information your agent is passing you.

You can get a  free suburb report from realestate.com.au, which will also qualify you to receive the free guide ‘Insiders Guide to Selling’ which should help to get you started.

Knowing your suburb can help you understand who might want to buy your house.

Get the right agent

Selling doesn’t have to be an onerous task, all you need is the right agent. One who has the time for you, understands your needs, knows the area you’re selling in and has experience selling properties of a similar size and price. Often you can’t tick all the boxes in one agency…

… but you can try!

Shop around and do your research. Look at various agents and what they offer. Would you buy the first house you looked at? No, probably not, so you don’t have to pick the first agent you talk to.

But I don’t know any agents?

Searching for something you don’t know the name of is a near impossible task. Frustrating to the extreme, you can end up going in circles not knowing whom to trust.

Our find an agent search should help. Just type in your suburb and get a list of who works in your area. A great first step to finding that all important connection to potential buyers.

There’s also a wealth of information in our Selling Guide to help you on your way on turn that ‘For Sale’ sign into a big ‘ol SOLD sign.

This article was originally published on
28 Aug 2013 at 10:43am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Getting the strategy right for selling your home can make the difference between achieving a good sale or just selling for an average price.

A perennial question asked by potential vendors to agents, other than what price will they get, is: ‘what is the most effective way to market my property’?

A property will still sell in a down market and, if your agent does their work, optimal returns can still be made.

Marketing your property

The essential elements of a successful property marketing campaign include the price you’re willing to accept, the presentation effort you put into offering your property to potential buyers and the marketing effort recommended by your agent.

The soul purpose of all real estate marketing campaigns, is to sell. This is usually done by connecting  emotionally with the buyer  – you must establish and maintain a connection between your property and the potential new owner.

Photos are key

Vicki Gardiner, Director of Gardiner McInnes Estate Agents, Warrandyte, (VIC) says one of the keys to a great marketing campaign is fantastic photographs.

“Put yourself in the position of potential buyers scanning hundreds of online and print property advertisements – don’t make them work too hard to see the best features of your home.”

It’s a good idea to check with your agent about the quality of the photographs in some of their past marketing campaigns – you are entitled to ask your agent for samples of their photographer’s work and make sure you’re happy with the quality.

Home staging

Other methods Ms Gardiner suggests to maximise returns include staging living areas to spark buyers’ imaginations. A simple example of home staging is to rearrange your furniture or rent furniture to maximise the space of your property. Clear your clutter away and beware of home staging cliches such as lighting too many candles. Potential purchasers should be able to easily picture themselves in your house, but it shouldn’t have too much of ‘you’ in it.

Attention to detail is what matters when staging your property’s presentation.

“It’s the little things that count. Take care of any outstanding maintenance items; buyers can make decisions on how sound your home is based on the small details that are easily visible,” says Vicki.

Further advice includes playing to your strengths; “…if your property is strongly connected to a particular period, select a complementary interior design.”

Be open minded

Your tastes may not be matched to a home stylist, or even your agent’s, but using a professional means learning from their experience. Don’t be offended if you need to hide your wedding pictures, your cat, your baby photos and that family heirloom vase – keep focused on the goal, the best price for your property.

A 70s inspired example

As a practical example of optimising returns, Gardiner McInnes marketed a property in Warrandyte which was a fantastic 1970s home in entirely original condition. The decor was amazing and would have been the height of fashion in its day, complete with shag pile carpet and large geometric print wallpaper.

Rather than alter the design, or remove any elements, the agents worked with the vendors to embrace it in the marketing campaign. The home stylist used the existing furniture and added complementary soft furnishings.

During open homes 1970s disco classics were played and a celebratory atmosphere for potential purchasers was created. The home sold in fewer than two weeks for a price the vendors were thrilled with, plus the purchasers loved the decor so much they kept it as was.

For more insight into selling take a look at our Selling Guide.

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This article was originally published on
19 Sep 2013 at 2:00pm
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Don’t fret if you’re trying to sell your home as the tinsel’s going up. There are some little known advantages to selling through Christmas and New Year.

There are challenges to selling your property through Christmas and the new year. Many agents close up shop and have a break, people get distracted with presents and parties, and let’s face it… most of us are just plain exhausted.

But if you find yourself selling over the holidays, don’t despair. In some ways, it can be a good thing.

You just need to know where your advantages lie.

Spring fallout

The Spring selling season is winding down, and many who’ve parted with their home are now on the hunt for their next property.

If the season was competitive they’ll be a good number of people who missed out on their dream home and need to close the deal before the end of the year.

Buyer accessibility

Though it’s a busy time of year, most people have more time up their sleeve to scout properties they’ve had an eye on.

Normal work schedules make viewing lots of properties a challenge. As workload and commitments slow down, motivated buyers have much more time to search through properties that appeal and get out to see them.

Less competition

Selling at the height of Spring or Autumn means you’ll need to work hard to stand out from a crowd. There are usually less properties on the market over Christmas and New Year, meaning motivated buyers will have fewer prospects to tempt them.

By January and February, property listings are surging once more, and demand for your place may dip.

Milk the fact you’re one of a special few.

How we feel

With less work and more merriment, people generally feeling happier and more relaxed over the holidays. When buyers are cheery, they’re in a better mood to negotiate and more likely to act. The process should be easier on all parties.

Starting a new year and wrapping the previous one makes most people reflective. We think about what we did and didn’t do, our goals and dreams. How we did on that New Year’s resolution list from last year.

It’s a time of taking stock and reinvention – the perfect state of mind for moving on to a new home and a new chapter of life.

Auction aversion

They’re a great way to produce top prices for properties in certain areas, but auctions can be intimidating for a lot of buyers out there.

Auctions tend to shut up shop over Christmas and don’t pick up until the new year. If you’re selling through that period, more than likely you’ll be selling via private treaty, which will put many buyers at ease.

Romantic appeal

Depending on where you live and how you decorate, a home can have a unique appeal during the Christmas season. If your target market is families, you can tastefully dress your property so it lives and breathes the perfect family Christmas.

Buyers can get more emotional over the holidays, so appealing to the heart strings isn’t as taboo as usual. Embrace the season and you’ll connect with others who love it.

Rental transition

The rental market gets noisy this time of year. Leases are up, and people are working out their next step – new place to rent, or, for many, time to finally buy. Catch them while they’re in transit.

Paperwork

Tax requirements or strategic maneuvers, end of year bonuses, administrative headaches…

There’s a bunch of reasons buyers might want or need to get their paws on a new place before Auld Lang Syne kicks in. Make it a smooth proposition for them and bundle your property as the solution to their problems.

May Santa deliver the perfect buyer for you!

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This article was originally published on
2 Dec 2013 at 10:00am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Every home has a history, but some histories are more chequered than others. Crime scenes, murders, tragic accidents and other grisly happenings don’t just attract media attention; they can also also put a potential buyer off.

So what happens when a property with a past comes up for sale? Should a potential buyer be told about what went on? We asked the experts.

A material fact

Tim McKibbin, CEO of the Real Estate Institute of NSW (REINSW), says the rules around selling a house with a history provoke interesting questions.

“In the US they call it a ‘stigmatised’ property – an event on the property, or near the property, has affected it,” says Tim.

“’A material fact’ is the way we refer to it here, and you find those words in section 52(1) of the Property Stock and Business Agents Act 2002.”

This part of the NSW Act was thrown into the spotlight by the Sef Gonzales case.

In 2004 the Sydney home in which Sef Gonzales murdered his family was sold to some buyers who were unaware of its tragic past. Once they found out about the home’s history, they didn’t want to proceed with the purchase. This prompted a review of the NSW laws surrounding disclosure. The agent had to refund their deposit, and the home was later sold for less than the original price.

The law changed as a result of that review and real estate agents must now disclose any ‘material fact’ before they can sell a property. But what actually constitutes a material fact isn’t always clear.

If walls could talk

After Sydney businessman Michael McGurk was shot dead out the front of his Cremorne home in 2009 the papers followed not only the crime story, but also posted the photos of his home when it came up for sale some time later.

Robert Simeon, Director of Richardson & Wrench Mosman & Neutral Bay, was the agent for the McGurk house, when it was put on the market in May 2011 and says that there was much discussion about whether or not the crime required disclosure.

“An agent is required to disclose a death if it happens within the legal definition of the property,” Robert explains. “In the McGurk case the death happened outside the property, on the road, so there was no declaration required”.

Despite the home’s history Robert says there was no financial penalty in the end. “The home was sold with strong competition and both parties were happy with the outcome”.

And it’s not the only house with a history that Robert has sold on Sydney’s leafy North Shore. In 1991 he assisted with the sale of a Beauty Point home where the Mosman “Granny Killer” was found.

“When the property was eventually listed for sale it was on the market for quite some time.  My recollection is that the home’s value ended being quite heavily discounted although today this would not apply as the property has since undergone significant works,” Robert says. “Nor would there be any obligation to disclose the events that took place over 20 years ago”.

An agent is required to disclose a death if it happens within the legal definition of the property

Cultural sensitivities

Houses with histories come in many forms – it’s not just crime scenes that put buyers off. It could be untenable situations with neighbours, drug dealers’ houses, or having known sex offenders living nearby. As Tim McKibbin points out, elderly people die in their homes all the time. Do agents really need to pass that information on?

“What is a material fact?” asks Tim. The REINSW have been seeking clearer answers from the NSW Government on several issues.

“We live in a culturally diverse country and superstitions are very real to some people. Things that concern one group of people won’t affect another group. We keep asking, but we don’t get an answer because no one knows.”

“It’s very real to the people it affects. I respect that, it’s a material issue to them,” Tim says. “Fair Trading provides some guidance on the issue.”

“If someone told me that a person died in this home it wouldn’t bother me but I know it would bother members of my own family,” Tim says. “I know some people don’t like buying properties where there has been a divorce. Some cultures don’t like particular house numbers, some hotels don’t have certain floors.”

“I respect that people have a lot of different issues and take these things very seriously, which makes it a complex area that, unfortunately, the real estate agent is in the middle of.”

An agent’s responsibility

So what constitutes a traumatic event in a home’s history changes depending on who you speak to and varies in importance over time, opening a can of worms for agents, vendors and buyers alike.

While agents around the country have ethical responsibilities under their codes of conduct, the laws surrounding these issues vary from state to state. As Tim explains:

“All jurisdictions around Australia have legislation governing real estate agents in practice but unfortunately none of them is uniform. They have commonality in cover but they don’t bear any resemblance to each other in structure, that’s a problem,” says Tim.

Tim says the obligation to reveal a home’s history in NSW currently rests with the agent alone. “The tribunal has said the agent needs to disclose it, but the vendor doesn’t. But if they make those disclosures without the authority or consent of the vendor they could be in a difficult position where they are captured under different legislation for not acting in the best interests of the vendor.”

The REINSW has tried to incorporate these obligations on the agent into their agency agreements, which require the vendor to provide the agent with the information and to consent to that information being provided to the purchasers.

While a crime scene can turn a buyer off, there’s also an element of public curiosity

“We need some consistency, clarity, and certainty. If we are truly interested in consumer protection then obligating the vendor along with the agent seems logical, and consistent.”

Tim also suggests that the disclosure could instead be captured in the contract for sale of land, in much the same way a prospective buyer has their conveyancer or lawyer make enquiries about mortgages or easements to ensure the land isn’t encumbered.

“As of April there is going to be an additional document required for swimming pools, to say that the swimming pool is compliant, we think you should also include in a contract for sale of land the material facts attached to the property,” Tim says.

Voyeurs

As much as a crime scene can turn a buyer off, there’s also an element of public curiosity, a strange voyeurism, over these types of properties. In fact realestate.com.au’s sister website Squarefoot.hk in Hong Kong has an entire section of ‘haunted houses’ because they hold such strong cultural fascination (and the prospect of a bargain!)

Read more: The most haunted houses in Australia

This article was originally published on
18 Feb 2014 at 4:34pm
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

If you have accepted a job in a different part of the state, or across the country, you might have to move in a hurry. Some companies only give their employees a few weeks to pack their belongings, move to the new town, and settle.

Considering most homeowners need at least a month to prepare a home for listing and the average house stays on the market for 80 days in 2024, that’s not enough time to effectively sell your house and find a new one. 

One option is to work with a relocation company which will buy your house in cash so you can move. This could be a good option if you are in a hurry, but there are some significant drawbacks to working with these agencies. Learn more about the pros and cons of selling a house through a relocation company and how to work with one of these firms.

What is a Relocation Company?

A relocation company is a firm that helps people move from one place to another. Relocation companies are frequently hired by organizations that hire employees from across the country. 

If a company offers a job to a candidate or current employee who doesn’t live near its office location, the organization can either ask the worker to cover their own relocation costs or pay these costs through a relocation package. Relocation packages are considered perks of the job and incentives for taking the position. 

On average, it costs companies $97,000 to relocate a current employee who is a homeowner. It costs $24,000 on average to relocate employees who are renters. You can see how the cost of selling a home and helping an employee purchase another one significantly increases the costs of relocation compared to simply ending a rental contract. 

Relocation companies offer a variety of services and packages depending on what the company is willing to pay. The relocation company you use can help with moving coordination, selling your home, and purchasing a new one. Some relocation companies are more hands-on than others, which means you will get greater assistance.

How Does a Relocation Company Sell Your Home?

Relocation companies use one of two ways to sell your home. Depending on the company your employer uses, you might get to choose the best option based on your needs. Some relocation companies only offer one option, which can affect your home sale timeline. Here are the choices you have. 

Cash Buyout

In this option, the relocation company will make a cash offer for your house and purchase it from you. This allows you to sell the property immediately and move to your new location. The main benefit of this choice is that you’re guaranteed to sell your house and can complete the real estate transaction quickly. 

The main drawback of a buyout is that you might not get the desired price you want for your property. It is in the relocation company’s best interest to offer you a low price for your home. After the agency purchases your house and you move out, it will resell the property and try to turn a profit.

The lower the price you accept and the higher the resale of the house, the more money the relocation company makes. 

Traditional Listing

The relocation company you work with might allow you to work with a real estate agent to list your house. The real estate agent acts on your behalf and goes through the relocation company so you don’t have to manage the home sale. There will be traditional showings for your house and negotiations on the price. 

The main benefit of this option is you can get an ideal price for your home. However, using a traditional real estate agent will be slower and potentially more labor-intensive. Your house might stay on the market for longer than you want and buyers might offer contingencies that you need to work around. 

For example, if a buyer makes an offer that is contingent on you replacing the HVAC system, you and your agent might have to work with a contractor to get that project done. it can be hard to manage a listing when you are trying to settle into a new neighborhood.

Evaluate the options offered by your relocation company to choose the best way to sell your house. Consider what the home’s listing price will be and your current financial picture. Also, evaluate the relocation package offered by your employer.

Advantages of Selling a House Through a Relocation Company

Relocation is a popular perk offered by organizations that want to recruit employees or promote them.

There are several benefits of working with a relo company if you need to sell your house as part of your career advancement.

Efficiency and Speed

Relocation companies can speed up the moving process. If you only have a few weeks to get to a new city, these firms can quickly purchase your home or list it while helping you move your things. 

Relo companies work with moving firms and real estate agents throughout the week and are experienced in getting people from one place to another. They are particularly valuable if you don’t have a lot of moving experience. Don’t get overwhelmed and focus on your job relocation instead.

Financial Benefits

If your company is covering the cost of the relocation company, you can save a lot of money on the move. You might not have to hire movers and likely won’t have to make costly repairs and upgrades before you sell your house.

There is also a chance that you don’t have to pay closing costs or your Realtor’s commission if you opt for the cash buyout. Read the fine print of any relo company agreement to make sure you’re benefiting financially from the move.

Expert Support

Selling a home is so stressful that 36% of homeowners cry before the closing date. Listing your house requires extensive repairs, planning, decluttering, showings, and negotiations. Sellers also need to trust that their buyers are qualified and can get financing to close the deal. 

Once a home is sold, the owner packs up their belongings and moves to the new location,  where they start the equally stressful buying process. This comes with a new set of negotiations and you could potentially live in temporary housing until you have access to your new home.

Relo companies offer expert support that can overcome these hurdles so you can focus on packing up your things and finding a new house that you love. They can take care of all the stressful parts that make moving exhausting.

Disadvantages of Selling a House Through a Relocation Company

There are a few reasons why you might not want to work with a relocation company to sell your house and buy your next one. Here are a few drawbacks to keep in mind.

Cost Implications

While some people enjoy financial benefits from working with one of these firms, you could lose money on the sale through a buyout. The relocation company might offer a lower price than you think your home is worth. 

To avoid losing money, consider paying for a home appraisal before you start meeting with relocation companies. This will give you an idea of what your home is worth in the current market. If you get lowballed by the firm, you might decide to work with a real estate agent instead. 

Make sure you review all of the costs, commissions, and fees that you will pay through any property sale option to ensure you make the best possible choice for your finances.

Limited Control

When you hand over control over the sale of your house to a relocation company, you no longer have input over the offers, contingencies, and closing date. While your main goal might be to move quickly, you might not be ready to give up total control of the sale process.

You also might have to work with preselected moving companies and stay in their chosen temporary housing options. Some people enjoy having all of these things planned for them, while others feel stressed if the services don’t meet their needs. 

Market Value Concerns

Even if you work with a real estate agent selected by the relocation company instead of opting for a buyout, you might still get a lower price on the sale of your home. This is because the Realtor is going to price the house to sell quickly. The agent might feel pressure to perform from the company, especially if they want to be hired by the organization again in the future. 

As a result, your house might be listed for lower than you want or the Realtor might recommend accepting lower offers than you feel comfortable with.

What Homebuyers Should Know Before Buying from a Relocation Company

If you are looking to buy a house, you may come across a relocation property. There are benefits and drawbacks to making an offer on one of these homes. The main benefit is that you could get a deal on the price because the relocation company wants to sell the house fast.

The longer the relocation company holds on to the property, the more they have to pay in taxes, insurance, and utilities. These firms are looking to flip the house fast, so they might price the relocation property aggressively. 

Despite the competitive market value of the listing, there are some drawbacks to buying a relocation property. Many people who work for relocation companies only respond during standard business hours.

Your real estate agent might have a hard time contacting the owner in the evenings and on weekends. Additionally, these houses are usually sold as is. You won’t be able to negotiate for repairs or upgrades with the homeowner. Even negotiating down the price might be difficult.

Because you are purchasing a house through a company, not from an individual, the real estate transactions might be slower. It could take a couple more weeks for you to reach your closing date.

However, if you have a flexible timeline and you find a house that is in good condition, it might be worth the wait to move into a relocation property.

Alternatives to Selling a House Through a Relocation Company

Many organizations work with a dedicated relo company when they move employees to different locations. Fortunately, you might be able to consider other options for selling your home. Here are a few ways to list your property.

• Hire Your Own Realtor. Experienced real estate agents will understand that you are working on a tight deadline and want to sell the house fast. They will do their best to make sure you get competitive offers. Use FastExpert to find a qualified Realtor near you.
• Look into iBuyers. Cash-for-homes companies and online buyers will make offers on your home within 24 hours. This could be a more affordable alternative to working with a relocation company. 
• For Sale By Owner (FSBO). If you can take your time with the sale and have the ability to represent yourself, look into FSBO options.
• Keep the Property as an Investment. If you can secure another mortgage or buy a new house with cash, consider holding on to your current property. You might be able to rent out the home and use it as an investment for the future. 

Each of these options comes with benefits and drawbacks, including your ability to make money and sell your home quickly. Knowing your options can help you make the best possible decision before you travel to your new location.

Know Your Relocation Company Real Estate Options

Not everyone can choose the relocation company they work with, especially if your employer is taking care of all the details for you. If you are able to choose your relo company, make sure they have multiple home sale options.

Decide whether a buyout or traditional listing is best for your needs. You can also stick with a traditional moving service and work with real estate agents instead of getting a relocation company involved. 

To find experienced Realtors who understand the real estate market, turn to FastExpert. You can read agent profiles and hire a Realtor who understands your relocation timeline. They can help you move quickly while still getting a fair price for your house.

When it comes time to sell your house, you have the option of listing it as-is. This means you are not interested in requests from buyers to modify or repair the home before selling it.

Selling a house as is allows homeowners to ensure a no-fuss sale because they won’t have to pay for a significant number of repairs or potentially delay the closing date. While opting for an as-is home sale is an easy option for homeowners, many people wonder if they are losing money by going this route.

How Much do You Lose Selling a House as is?

The first question to answer is whether or not you lose money when selling a house as-is. This is a difficult question because every house is unique and requires different repairs. It is also challenging to answer because it is hard to quantify how much those repairs will increase the home price. 

For example, replacing your old garage door will cost around $4,500. But, it has an estimated return on investment (ROI) of $8,700. By selling your house as is, and failing to replace your garage door before listing the home, you are leaving up to $4,200 on the table.

However, a bathroom remodel costs around $25,000 on average and has a resale value of $18,600. Deciding to update your bathroom before you list the home could cause you to lose money. It will also cost you time and energy. 

When you first meet with a real estate agent, they will perform a comparative market analysis (CMA). This estimates the value of your property against similar ones in the area. The CMA will tell you how much your home is worth based on its size, the neighborhood, the current market, and its condition. If your house needs significant repairs or upgrades, your CMA will be lower than similar properties that are in better condition. 

You don’t necessarily lose selling your home as is. You can potentially save money and time by listing your property in its current condition. Your agent may recommend certain repairs or upgrades that are worth the investment. However, it’s your decision whether or not you pursue them. If you currently live in a seller’s market and your home doesn’t need necessary repairs, an as-is sale could be a good option.

Should I Sell My House As Is?

Like any part of the real estate process, deciding to sell your house as-is will depend on your particular situation. An option that works for one home seller might not work for another. Here are a few instances when selling as-is can be a lifeline if you are eager to move. 

• You cannot make repairs. Some people are not physically capable of making upgrades themselves and need to hire contractors to do the work for them. Elderly or disabled home sellers might opt for an as-is listing
• You cannot afford the repairs. Home repairs can get expensive, especially if your property needs a lot of work. you might not have the funds to invest in renovations before listing your house. 
• You have to move quickly. If you need to relocate for work or are going through a divorce, you might want to sell your house fast instead of spending several weeks making repairs or hiring contractors. 
• Your house is in good condition. Some homes can be listed as-is because there isn’t much to repair. If you know your house is in good condition, consider this option. 

The extent of the repairs will also determine whether it as-is listing is right for you. If you simply have one major issue, like a broken HVAC system, you can decide whether you want to invest in that upgrade or let your future buyer deal with the problem.

Pros of Selling a House As Is

There are several benefits of opting for an as-is sale. This option is increasingly preferred by homeowners who are eager to move and don’t want to invest a lot of time and money in home repairs. here are a few benefits of selling a house in this manner. 

• Speed: You don’t have to spend several weeks or months repairing your home and getting it in peak condition for the sale. You can list It today. 
• Money: While many people think you lose selling a house as-is, there’s always a risk that you spend more money on repairs than you get back in the final sale price. 
• Convenience: Home improvements don’t just cost money, they also take a lot of time. You will not have to give up your weekends working on repairs or spend several hours meeting with contractors and scheduling service calls. 
• Faster selling process: Letting buyers know that you intend to sell the home as-is can prevent them from making offers with several repair contingencies. This allows for a sooner closing date.

This could be an ideal option if you need to move in a hurry, like relocating for a job offer. It is also a good way to sell your house quickly without any time-consuming upgrades or repair contingency closing delays.

Cons of Selling a House As Is

Despite the benefits of selling a house as-is, there are significant limitations to this option. Depending on the local housing market, your sale plan might not pan out as you expect. Here are the risks you take. 

• Lower fair market value: You might not get the asking price you expect for your house because it needs repairs.
• Limited pool of buyers: Many lenders won’t approve mortgages on homes that need significant repairs. You may need to work with cash buyers, limiting the number of people who will be interested in your property. 
• Perceived issues: Even if your property is in good condition, an as-is home could be a red flag to buyers. It could take longer to sell your home than you expect because of this limited buyer pool. 

The market conditions in your area will determine what your home sells for and the demand for the property. In some regions, you can still get a higher price for a home that needs repairs because demand for houses is high. In other areas, listing a house as is could cause it to stay on the market longer than you want.

How to Sell a House As Is

Deciding to sell a house as-is is a big part of the real estate process. Once you start considering this route, you can take steps to increase your chances of a smooth home sale. Here are a few steps to follow as you evaluate your options and plan your moving timeline.

Get Advice From a Local Real Estate Agent

The first step in any home sale is to meet with potential real estate agents who could represent you. Ask at least three real estate to visit your home and perform a CMA on its value. They may adjust their estimated home sale price once they see the condition of your house. Each agent should review how they performed the CMA and how they reached their estimated listing price. 

During these meetings, ask your agent about as-is home sales. Learn if they are common in the region and if this option is a good fit for you. The agents should review how the fair market value of your home will change if you sell as-is, complete major upgrades, or simply invest in minor repairs. They might recommend a few key changes to focus on so you can attract potential buyers. 

If the agent you hire feels confident that you won’t lose selling a house as-is, you can move forward with listing it on the local housing market.

Disclose Defects

When your agent drafts your listing agreement, they will ask you to fill out a seller’s disclosure statement. This is where you will list every known defect in the house. It doesn’t matter whether you are selling a house as-is or are open to making major repairs, you are legally required to be transparent about your property’s known defects. 

You can also disclose any issues that you have already addressed with the property. For example, if the house is known to have termite damage but you have eradicated the infestation and addressed any foundational issues they caused, you can list those upgrades in the disclosure. 

A detailed disclosure will make potential buyers feel more comfortable about bidding on an as-is property. They won’t feel like there are any hidden issues that they need to look out for. 

Do a Home Inspection Before Listing

It is increasingly common for homeowners to schedule a home inspection before they list. This alerts them to any potential issues that home buyers might object to. Review the inspection with your real estate agent and go over any repair costs that could prevent your home from selling. During this time, you can decide whether you want to invest in these repairs or move forward with the as-is sale. 

Your Realtor may use your pre-home inspection as a selling point when buyers start touring your property. They can highlight how the home was already inspected and repairs were made while encouraging anyone who makes a bid to conduct an inspection themselves. Just because you conduct a home Inspection does not mean you should expect your buyer to waive theirs. 

This home inspection will prevent surprises in the home sale. Both you and your buyer won’t be shocked by a damaged roof or issues with the plumbing that could potentially cause your buyer to walk away from the deal.

Get Cost Estimates for Potential Repairs

When home buyers tour your property, they will mentally calculate the fair market value plus the repair costs. If an excessive amount of work needs to be done on your house, your buyers might walk away from the deal because the property is now out of their budget. 

If you want to be transparent about what the home needs, seek out estimates for repairs and upgrades before buyers visit your home. You can highlight how the final sale price plus the estimated repair costs reach the market value of the property. This will make your buyers think they are getting a deal rather than overpaying for a house that needs repairs.

Identify Repairs That Could be Required by Lenders

One of the challenges of selling your home as-is is that you may not receive offers from buyers securing FHA loans. The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has strict guidelines for the condition of properties to approve mortgages for them. A buyer might walk away from the sale if you are not willing to make these repairs.

Look at the results from your home inspection and consider which repairs are essential for buyers and which ones are cosmetic or easy to overlook. For example, all broken doors and windows must be fixed to get an FHA loan, while appliances and the roof must have at least two years of viability remaining.

If you have a broken HVAC system or your roof needs to be replaced, lenders might not approve the mortgage on the home.

If you are adamant that you are not going to make any repairs on the property, your buyer pool might be limited to investors and people making cash offers. As a result, you might get lower offers than you want or the sale could take longer than you expect.

Set a Realistic Price

Once you understand the full scope of the necessary repairs and have estimates for what it will cost to complete them, you can work with your agent to set a competitive listing price. Your goal is to make money on the home sale while also finding home buyers quickly. You don’t want your house to stay on the market too long or people will lose interest in the property. 

Your agents can help you choose a fair market number for your initial listing price. Keep in mind that when buyers see an as-is sale, they might be more competitive with their offers and negotiations. You may receive offers that are lower than your listing price to account for the perceived repairs. Make sure you set a floor for the absolute minimum that you are willing to accept on an offer.

Alternatives to Selling a House As Is

If you are still worried that you will lose selling a house as-is, consider other options that could be more profitable. Here are a few ways to sell your property that are optimal for your finances and moving goals. 

• Work with investors. You might be able to meet with cash buyers who promised to purchase your home as-is. Many investors will also allow you to choose your target closing date. You might get a lower sales price than you expect through this option. 
• Take out a loan for repairs. If you don’t have the money for repairs at this time, consider taking out a loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). This will give you the funds you need to repair your property and make it desirable to buyers. 
• List as For Sale By Owner (FSBO). Listing your home by yourself could help you save on Realtor commissions. Consider offering a lower asking price to appeal to cash buyers. Remember, with this option, you will have to take on all of the real estate paperwork and aspects of the transaction by yourself.
• Wait for the market to change. Housing markets are unpredictable, but you could consider waiting for a seller’s market in your region. this might make your home more desirable without requiring you to make repairs. 

The viability of each of these options depends on how quickly you want to move, your ideal selling price, and how adamant you are against making repairs. Explore every channel before choosing the best one.

Check Your Market Value Before Listing an As-Is Home

The first step if you’re thinking about listing an as-is home is to contact a real estate agent. Your realtor can tell you if you’re currently in a seller’s market and provide a fair market value estimate for your property. 

They will advise whether it is better to make necessary repairs before listing or if they are confident that they can find cash buyers for your property. Your agent understands that you want to strike a balance between getting a higher sales price and moving quickly without putting a lot of work in. 

To find a trusted real estate agent who is experienced in as-is home sales, turn to FastExpert. You can review agent profiles to learn about their experience in your region and home sale specialties. You can also contact the top contenders and request interviews. Try FastExpert today and take the first steps to sell your home.

Look at any well staged home – you may not guess that there were an array of people behind it. There’s the elbow grease gang, the professional experts and the real estate agents.

All of these teams are absolutely vital to the re-sale of your home. Without all of them working together, getting that high bid come sale day might not be possible.

So who’s who and why do you need them all?

1. Cleaning: The elbow grease gang

Photo: Kate Griffin

As the name suggests, these are the people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. They are most commonly the property owners, their friends and family and in some cases, hired labour. Their jobs include de-cluttering, cleaning, organising, packing, gardening and small repairs.

2. Finishing touches: The professional experts

They come next and include professional home stagers, building inspectors, handymen, landscape gardeners, movers and tradies. It’s these people, in cahoots with the elbow grease gang, who get the home market ready.

Read more: How to: save money on tradies

But really, that’s only half the equation. After all, if no one’s marketing a property, even the best dressed home will go for under budget. This is when your final team comes into play.

3. Breaking the deal: The real estate agents

Some questions to consider when selecting the right real estate are:

• Are they personable?
• Are they honest?
• Do they have great communication skills?
• Do they know your property like the back of their hand?
• Do they have an excellent sales track record?

Read more: How to: choose the right real estate agent for you

This is a good start to help you on the hunt for the perfect team, but make sure, more than anything, that you trust your gut. After all, no one knows your property the way you do.

Get the help you need but just make sure you do your research and trust your intuition.

Are you selling your home? Find more information on our Selling Guide

This article was originally published on
28 Jan 2015 at 10:00am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Autumn is a wonderful time to sell despite the unpredictability of the weather. 

One of the main advantages when selling in autumn is that you are busting the myth. You’re busting the myth that you should only sell your property in spring.

Research & identify comparative properties to get ahead this season.

This could mean there are fewer properties on the market to complete with; as many people hold off selling their homes as winter is approaching. So make the most of the season – identify your comparative properties and research them well.

Knowing your competition, their level of finish, presentation and assets, can help make sure your property shines and take it to a level above the competition.

The right time: Which is the best season to sell a property?

When there’s unpredictable weather in sight it’s important to be ready for any situation come open house. Below are some essential things to remember:

1. Natural light

Make sure there is plenty of light in the space; pull back the heavy curtains and clean the fly screens.

2. Manipulate light

Make sure that the rooms have additional lights sources such as table lamps or desk lamps to spark up the room.

3. Weather the storm

Be ready for any temperature. Learn to preheat the house and have the air conditioner on until just before the open home. Then turn it down to low (but leave it on) and open the house up (as long as it is not too windy outside).

4. Early maintenance

When watering and tending to your lawns don’t leave the yards until the day before your open house. If the weather turns bad, you don’t want to be put in the situation where you are unable to mow and clean up in time.

Don’t leave mowing to the night before your open house.

5. A dry house

Do all your watering earlier in the week to avoid any dampness come open house. This is not the welcoming look you want as you head into the colder months of the year.

6. Prune and preen

Make sure the grounds and gardens are in good shape and need little maintenance; gardening in the cooler months is not everyone’s cup of tea! Also living in the garden space is a luxury that many people love in autumn, so making outside living an option is a real plus.

If outdoor living is an option, make it look appealing.

7. Transitional styling

Styling your home in winter and summer can be a little different. There are small tweaks that will help you make your home feel open and resort-like in summer and warm and welcoming in winter. Make sure that you have both options handy so you can style to the day of the open house.

Autumn is a sensational time to sell.

Dive in and make the most of this time of year.

Related: The law of attraction vs. distraction

This article was originally published on
11 Mar 2015 at 4:45pm
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.