There are also plenty of them floating around in the property industry – assumptions made which some read online or hear by word of mouth and believe to be true. We’re here to bust those myths and misconceptions so you can avoid any costly mistakes going forward…
It happens in every industry – there are always a few assumptions, myths and half-truths out there which everyone assumes are true when they aren’t. Separate fact from fiction and find out if what you’ve read online is really the truth…There are many myths that we follow everyday which simply aren’t true, for example: Your blood is blue before its oxygenated. While many believe that de-oxygenated blood is blue, it is actually a myth because human blood is always red - although the level of redness does differ depending on how oxygenated it is. Or Chameleons change colour to match their surroundings. Believe it or not, chameleons actually change colour as a response to mood, temperature, communication and light instead of the object they are touching.
There are also plenty of them floating around in the property industry – assumptions made which some read online or hear by word of mouth and believe to be true. We’re here to bust those myths and misconceptions so you can avoid any costly mistakes going forward…
Misconception 1: All estate agents are the same
This is a common one & very definitely NOT TRUE. Not only are individual estate agents different, but companies are also very different and will go about your sale differently. Look around and find the perfect agent for you - after all this is a big job and you need to have complete trust in the person you choose to do it. At Jacksons we have never embraced the "one size fits all" ethos, every client and their journey is unique. An individualised marketing plan is agreed in conjunction with your needs and expectations.
Misconception 2: You need to price your house with space for negotiation
The Internet has allowed potential buyers to research the local area resulting in them being able to see what similar properties have sold for. If you price your house too high, not only will you put buyers off, but you also run the risk of not getting any offers, leaving your property on the market. Once a property has been on the market for an extended period, people begin to wonder if there is something wrong with it. Instead, focus on pricing your property on its worth. Many properties are sold at or above their asking price these days!
Misconception 3: Your house doesn't need to be 'sale' ready
Whilst some empty houses do sell, houses that already look like 'home' often sell better. People want to be able to envisage their own family in the property. It is also important to clean your home and repair any minor problems or DIY mistakes as if left, a potential buyer will begin to think about the things they can't see. Most people want a home that is in a 'move in' condition, even if they plan to do some renovating. At Jacksons we have a team member who can advise on you on the best way to present your property so that you get the best price.
Misconception 4: Spring is the best time to sell
While homes do sell in spring, they also sell in summer, autumn, and winter. The truth may be that people can't be bothered in the winter and would prefer to wait a few weeks until the days are lighter, and the weather is brighter - however, overall, there isn't a best time to sell your home. Each season has its own merits for selling. If you follow the correct advice on presentation & marketing the season is irrelevant.
Misconception 5: You should choose the agent who says they will sell your house for the highest price
You should choose an agent based on their experience and knowledge of the local market. Pricing your home high may be appealing but it will just end up on the market for too long causing suspicion with potential buyers. Instead, choose an agent who you trust and have faith in, offers great marketing and knows your area. Many agents get paid to put your property on the market, it doesn’t matter to them whether the property sells or not. If you have an agent that gives you a price which is higher than others have recommended it may be worth asking WHY?
Misconception 6: If your offers are low, your agent is not working hard enough
It is very easy to point the finger of blame at an agent if your sale isn't going as fast or smoothly as you'd like. If your offers aren't matching the asking price, there could be many reasons, from overpricing to terrible marketing or an unfavourable market. At Jacksons we work with honest feedback and continually rework our marketing material to ensure that you get the best opportunity to secure a buyer.
Misconception 7: Estate agents will say anything to get a sale
Much of the estate agency business is done by referral or recommendation, and if an agent constantly lied, they wouldn't receive business. Word of mouth will soon spread about an untrustworthy agent. Check reviews and ask people in your local town to find the best agent for you and your property.
Whether you are buying or selling, the property world can be daunting and confusing. By using Jacksons to sell your property you can be confident that we will be with you every step of the way.