Perth property experts share their tips for selling your home this spring

WITH more homes expected to come on to the market in spring, residential asked several property experts for their tips for people looking to sell.

Paul Blakeley, Harcourts WA chief executive

When putting your house up for sale at any time, but particularly in spring, it is always prudent to ensure that you give yourself the best possible chance of achieving the highest price.

That means presenting your home at its most attractive; it is amazing what a coat of paint and a general declutter can achieve.

Make sure you price your home competitively, overpricing or not adjusting to meet the market soon enough, can actually cost you money in the long run.

Finally make sure you invest in promoting your property, the onset of spring generally sees an influx of properties for sale, meaning your home will be in competition with more properties.

Invest wisely in a marketing campaign to ensure your home is seen by as many people as possible.

Your local real estate agent will be able to advise on the best campaign for your area.

Is it a good time to sell? There are opportunities in any market, so do not put your life on hold waiting for the real estate market to boom.

As things stand you may have to accept slightly less than you expected when selling your home but on the flip side, you may end up paying slightly less on the house you are looking to purchase.

Either way it would appear that the years of declining values are behind us and even though we expect recovery to be slow, the future of the real estate landscape in Perth looks brighter than it has done in years.

Paul Blackburne, Blackburne managing director

When choosing an agent do not go with the cheapest.

The 1 per cent you may save in commissions and advertising may cost you 5 per cent or more.

This spring should see prices increase however the market is still soft in housing so be prepared to take offers within 10 per cent of the asking price if you have an established house.

John Percudani, Realmark director

Good presentation and marketing are essential in this market.

Sellers should look to minimise their days on market by appointing an agency with a proven track record in achieving low days on market, area knowledge and ability in sales methods such as set date sale or auction for best sale results.

Annually spring is the most active buying period so potential sellers should be proactive about leveraging this selling time, however, the appointment of an agency with proven selling skills is a smart investment that will be reflected in the end sale result.

Mark Whiteman, Ray White WA chief executive

Choose your agent wisely.

You want a good marketer to ensure you get the best price.

Demand weekly written reports with full price feedback from buyers.

Communication between you and the agent is the key to a great result.

Do not discount using the auction method, it drives activity and creates competition.