Everything you need to know about selling your property

Selling your home is a significant decision, and our goal is to make the process as smooth and successful as possible. With a clear strategy and expert guidance, you can maximise your property’s value and move on to your next chapter with confidence. This guide outlines the key steps to a successful sale.

What is my property worth?

Understanding the current market value of your home is the essential first step. A property appraisal is an estimate of your home’s worth, prepared by a real estate agent who understands the local market. It’s a simple, no-obligation process that gives you the information you need to make an informed decision.

Our appraisals are free and are based on a combination of factors:

• Recent sales: We analyse what similar properties in Blockhouse Bay have recently sold for.
• Property features: We assess the size of your land and home, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, its overall condition, and any unique features that make it stand out.
• Location: Proximity to local schools, parks like the Blockhouse Bay Recreation Reserve, transport links, and the village shops all influence value.
• Market conditions: We provide insight into current buyer demand and property trends. For example, in the Blockhouse Bay market, properties are currently taking a median of 33 days to sell.

How do I choose the right real estate agent?

Your agent will market your property and negotiate on your behalf, so finding the right person is crucial for achieving the best result. When you meet with potential agents, treat it like a job interview. You need a professional you can trust to get the best deal for you.

Key questions to ask include:

• What is your experience selling in my area? Ask for their recent sales record for properties similar to yours in your neighbourhood.
• What is your marketing strategy? Request a detailed plan showing how they will present your property to the market to attract the most qualified buyers.
• How will you communicate with me? A good agent will establish a clear communication plan, including how often you can expect updates and feedback from viewings.
• What are your fees? Ensure you receive a clear, written breakdown of the commission structure and any additional marketing costs before you sign anything.

How should I prepare my home for sale?

Presentation is often the reason two similar properties sell for very different prices. You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and preparing your home is one of the most important investments you can make in the sale process.

• Declutter and deep clean: Remove personal items, excess furniture, and clutter to make rooms feel larger and more inviting. A spotless home signals to buyers that it has been well-maintained.
• Boost curb appeal: Tidy the garden, mow the lawns, wash the exterior of the house, and ensure the entrance is welcoming. This is the first thing a buyer sees.
• Complete minor repairs: Fix any small issues like dripping taps, sticking doors, or cracked tiles. A fresh coat of neutral paint can also make a huge difference and help buyers envision the space as their own.
• Consider home staging: Staging helps buyers visualise themselves living in the space. It can significantly enhance your home’s appeal in photos and during viewings, often leading to a better sale price.

What are the costs involved in selling a house?

It’s important to be aware of the costs you’ll incur so you can budget effectively. On average, selling a $1 million house in New Zealand can cost between $33,500 and $60,950+.

The main expenses are:

• Real estate commission: This is the agent’s fee for service, calculated as a percentage of the final sale price. In New Zealand, rates typically range from 2.95% to 3.95% on the first portion of the sale price, with a lower rate applied to the remaining balance.
• Marketing costs: This is an upfront investment to promote your property and usually includes professional photography, online listings on sites like Trade Me, and signage. This can range from $1,700 to $3,500+.
• Other costs: You may also need to budget for legal fees with your solicitor, home staging, and any pre-sale maintenance or repairs.

What happens after I accept an offer?

Once you’ve accepted an offer, your lawyer and agent will guide you through the final steps. The buyer will work to satisfy any conditions in the agreement, such as securing finance or getting a satisfactory building report. Once all conditions are met, the sale becomes “unconditional.” On settlement day, the buyer pays the remaining balance, and you hand over the keys to the new owner.

Ready to take the next step?

Every property journey is unique. If this guide has sparked any questions, or if you’d simply like to talk through your own situation with a local expert, please feel free to get in touch. We’re here to help, with no obligation.

Call us today on (09) 626 6119 for a friendly, confidential chat.