First Time Sellers: Moving Up The Scottish Property Ladder

Selling your home for the first time can be an exciting yet daunting experience. For many, it’s a significant step in their property journey, often filled with anticipation and uncertainty. To ensure a smooth and successful sale, it’s crucial to be aware of common pitfalls and follow expert guidance.

Arran Lovell, Property Valuer and Callum Sutherland, New Business Manager at Gilson Gray, have come together to share their expert guidance for ‘second-steppers’ when navigating the buying and selling process for the first time.

The Common Pitfalls

Overpricing Your Property.One of the most common mistakes first-time sellers make is overpricing their property. While it’s only natural to want to maximise your return, especially when you are looking to purchase a larger and more expensive property, it’s important to take guidance from your Valuer and set realistic expectations. They will research comparable properties in your area and consider the condition, size and location of your property, in order to set a realistic and competitive market price.

Neglecting Repairs.Neglecting to undertake necessary repairs before marketing your property can not only impact the value, but negatively impact the first impression of the property to potential buyers. It’s no secret that properties that appear run-down or even cluttered can turn off buyers from booking viewings. Investing in minor repairs and presenting a clean, well-presented or staged home can make a big difference in attracting buyers.

Choosing The Wrong Team.Your estate agent plays a crucial role in the selling process so it’s best to opt for an experienced team that can put your property in front of the right audience and find that all important buyers. A strong agent will deliver effective marketing, good communication, and ultimately, fight for the best possible sale price for your property. By selecting a solicitor estate agent such as Gilson Gray, all of your estate agency and property legal services can be done under one roof; simplifying the process for you and reducing delays and costs. A win win!

Our Top Tips

Set The Right Price.Let your Property Valuer guide you through their research and deliver professional advice to set the right price for your property. A well-priced property attracts more interest and can lead to multiple offers, potentially driving up the final sale price. Your final value is rarely your final sale price!

Enhance Curb Appeal.First impressions matter and enhancing your property curb appear is important, especially during the summer months. Simple landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, and a tidy exterior can significantly enhance interest. Read more here.

Professional Marketing.Marketing matters so make sure that your home is as tidy as possible when having your photographs taken. These will be used to entice potential buyers to click and find out more, so you want to get the best first impression. Property videos and drone footage are also increasingly popular and get fantastic engagement online so be sure to ask your estate agent if it’s something you’d like to have.

Choose The Right Team.It’s important to choose the right estate agent and solicitor for you; a company with a proven track record in your area who can provide valuable insights, handle negotiations effectively, and market your property to the right audience. Personal recommendations and reviews can be helpful in making your choice. Our property teams work in tandem to deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients, so if you’re considering Gilson Gray, here’s what our clients have to say.

Be Flexible and Patient.Selling a home can take time and there is no way to predict just how long it might be before the right buyer comes along. Being flexible with viewing appointments can help to increase the number of potential buyers, but ultimately patience and a positive attitude coupled with trust in your estate agent will always make the process smoother and less stressful.

In addition, the legal process can take several weeks to complete so it can take time for everything to move along. Your team will keep you updated at each step and advise you of what you are required to do as the sale/purchase progress. We’re here to make the process as smooth as possible for you.

Preparation and the right professional support are key to making your property journey a rewarding experience. Gilson Gray is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to discuss your property needs and to book your free, no obligation valuation to get you started.