What are the advantages and disadvantages of letting out your own property compared to bringing in a letting agent?

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In this market, especially in the provinces excluding the Western Cape, it’s difficult to sell properties and it may be required let out your property.

You can do this yourself. But you may be faced with challenges as not all tenants are the same. Going in blind is not wise. So you need to do research and understand what letting your property entails.

If you choose a letting agent, you need to do your homework thoroughly. Not all letting agents are the same; you get the good and the bad. The commissions and fees will vary. Service levels will vary. So you need to choose carefully.

When it comes to renting out property in Johannesburg, South Africa, property owners have two main options: private letting or using the services of an estate agent.

Both avenues have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to weigh them carefully before making a decision.

In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of each approach to help property owners make an informed choice based on their individual circumstances and preferences.

Advantages of Private Letting:

  1. Cost Savings: One of the primary benefits of private letting is the potential to save on costs. By bypassing an estate agent, property owners can avoid paying agency fees and commissions, thus maximizing their rental income.
  2. Direct Control: When you opt for private letting, you maintain complete control over the rental process. You can directly handle tenant selection, lease agreements, and property maintenance, ensuring your property is managed according to your preferences.
  3. Personalized Approach: Private letting enables property owners to establish a direct relationship with tenants. This close interaction fosters better communication and understanding, potentially leading to long-term and more harmonious tenancies.
  4. Flexibility in Negotiations: Private landlords can be more flexible in negotiating rental terms with tenants. This could be advantageous in tailoring agreements to meet specific requirements, such as allowing pets or offering a shorter lease duration.

Disadvantages of Private Letting:

  1. Time and Effort: Private letting demands considerable time and effort from property owners, especially during the tenant screening process, maintenance, and handling tenant queries.
  2. Limited Market Reach: Without the reach of a professional estate agent’s network, finding suitable tenants might be more challenging. This can result in longer vacancies between tenancies, impacting rental income.
  3. Legal Compliance: Property owners must stay updated on relevant rental laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues when privately letting their property.

Advantages of Letting through an Estate Agent:

  1. Extensive Market Exposure: Estate agents have access to a broader pool of potential tenants, which can reduce vacancy periods and ensure a steady stream of rental income.
  2. Tenant Screening: Estate agents often have thorough tenant screening processes in place, reducing the risk of selecting unreliable or problematic tenants.
  3. Legal Knowledge: Professional estate agents are well-versed in rental laws and regulations, providing property owners with peace of mind and ensuring legal compliance throughout the tenancy.
  4. Expertise and Marketing: Estate agents possess market knowledge and expertise in marketing rental properties, helping to attract quality tenants and potentially achieving higher rental rates.

Disadvantages of Letting through an Estate Agent:

  1. Costs: Employing an estate agent comes with associated fees, typically a percentage of the monthly rental income or a fixed commission. This can impact the overall profitability for property owners.
  2. Lack of Direct Control: Relying on an estate agent means relinquishing some control over the rental process, as the agent becomes the intermediary between the landlord and the tenant.

The decision to let your property privately or through an estate agent in Johannesburg, South Africa, requires careful consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

Private letting offers more control, cost savings, and a personalized touch, but it demands more time and effort from property owners.

On the other hand, using an estate agent provides access to a wider market, professional tenant screening, and legal expertise, but it comes with associated fees and reduces direct control.

Ultimately, property owners should evaluate their specific needs, resources, and preferences to make the best choice for their rental property.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

Watch out for these signs that indicate you may have problems with your estate agent

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I’m sure there are wonderful estate agents out there who will get the best deal for you and provide you with the most efficient service.

But I’m sure you are aware that there are estate agents, especially in this market, who are not up to scratch.

It’s in your best interest to identify behaviors and clues that will red flag an estate agent who is not going to serve your best interests.

Here are things to watch out for when selecting an estate agent in South Africa.

1. Unprofessional Behaviors:

One of the main issues plaguing the real estate industry in South Africa is the prevalence of unprofessional behaviors among certain estate agents. This can include lack of transparency, dishonesty about property details, or engaging in unethical practices to gain an advantage over competitors. Such behaviors not only tarnish the reputation of the profession but also erode trust between agents and clients.

2. Poor Service:

Another common complaint about estate agents in South Africa is the provision of subpar service. Clients often report difficulties in getting timely responses, lack of communication, and unavailability when needed. A good estate agent should be attentive, responsive, and dedicated to their clients’ needs, but unfortunately, some fall short in delivering the level of service that clients rightfully expect.

3. Bad Practices:

Certain estate agents may adopt bad practices to make quick sales or increase their commission. This can include overpricing properties to attract clients, failing to disclose property defects, or pressuring clients into making hasty decisions. Such practices not only harm the interests of clients but can also lead to legal issues and damage the credibility of the entire industry.

4. Failure to Sell:

Effective property sales require a combination of marketing expertise, negotiation skills, and market knowledge. Unfortunately, some estate agents may lack these essential attributes, leading to properties lingering on the market for extended periods without being sold. This can be frustrating for both sellers and buyers and may be a sign of incompetence on the agent’s part.

While the majority of estate agents in South Africa maintain high standards of professionalism and service, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the issues of unprofessional behaviors, poor service, bad practices, and failure to sell among a minority of agents.

Clients should remain vigilant and thoroughly research their chosen agent before engaging their services.

Choosing the right estate agent can make a significant difference in a property transaction, so it is essential to work with reputable agents who prioritize transparency, honesty, and exceptional service.

Being aware of the negative behaviours and practices of estate agents can save you a lot of time and money – and reduce headaches.

Before you jump in to appoint an estate agent to market and sell your property, speak to professionals to get advice and do your own research.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

Beware of invisible scripts that estate agents have – you’d be a fool not to read this if you are trying to sell your property in this difficult market

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I don’t know about you but I think it’s important to know what sort of estate agent you are dealing with to sell one of your most valuable assets.

That’s why it’s important to size up an estate agent who is going to represent you and your property. Of course, you could get referrals from people, which would shortcut the process.

But if you going in cold you need some way to decipher what kind of estate agent you are dealing with.

I’ve found that looking for the invisible scripts that estate agents have is important. These invisible scripts can be useful for dealings with any people whether salespeople or people you are negotiating. It comes in handy as well when understanding your own invisible script for investing but that’s a separate topic.

An invisible script helps you understand the type of character and objectives or motives that an estate agent has.

You might find that in an estate agent comes across as someone who says that they will give you excellent friendly service. But the invisible script could be that you are just another transaction and they will do the minimum possible to sell your property for you.

Another invisible script could be that the agent really wants to sell your property at any price, the lowest price possible to make a fast sale.

Yet another could be that the estate agent doesn’t like you personally (in this society people are highly prejudiced) and will try trick or undermine you. This script says the agent has no regard for you and also will attempt to sell your property by piling on negatives and making you believe that your property is worth less than it really is. Be specially cautious of an estate agent carrying this script around with them.

Well, then what is the positive script to look out for?

Behind all the talk and promises, you might find that the script that the agent is carrying with them is to genuinely help you sell your property for the best possible price, especially in this difficult market.

I don’t think identifying invisible scripts is a foolproof method by any means to uncover the motives of estate agents.

But I think that if you bear it in mind when looking for an estate agent to represent you and your property, it may help you to better size up the estate agent you are dealing with.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

How to choose an estate agent that isn’t the rotten apple in the barrel

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First off you need to call in a reasonable number of estate agents.

I’ve done this so I have some experience.

Then you need to sift through their proposals.

But much more important is to get a sense of their character and the invisible scripts that they carry.

This might not be apparent at first.

It’s a good thing to wait a couple of days and form a mental impression of them.

Some would say you should get references on them, which is important in itself. But ultimately you are going to be the one who has to decide who to represent you and your property.

First impressions are important.

But second impressions can be telling.

Forgettery quickly occurs. We tend to forget the negative things that we perceived but glossed over them as if they weren’t important.

That’s why it’s important to shortlist say three agents, call them back and have a second meeting with them.

After this, you might feel that you are wasting time looking for more agents.

Even if one is fantastic, you never know if they are the rotten apple in the barrel.

Don’t rush the process.

Get a feel for how they behave, what they say and what they do.

For example, if they promised to call you back, how long do they take?

Choosing an estate agent to represent a significant portion of your assets is difficult.

Take your time and find somebody you believe you can trust.

There is no foolproof way.

If you discover that the estate agent you’ve chosen is not up to scratch, then wait a while and choose someone else.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

Beware of the avaricious estate agent

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If you are selling your property, you probably want to read this.

Yes, there are good estate agents but there are also the bad ones.

Last week I covered options for selling a property in a down market. This week I’d like to take a look at the behaviour and practice of estate agents.

Of course, there are benignant estate agents. I’d like to say that the professional estate agents provide good service, are available and report back on a regular basis.

But no matter how good an estate agent is they are only effective if they sell your property at a price acceptable to you.

If they can’t sell, then they are useless to you.

Let’s start off with things that can go wrong.

In this market, there are agents that are so desperate to make a sale that they bring proposals to you to sell your property at a price similar to a second hand car.

Have they no shame?

This is a terrible slap in the face for the seller. But it makes one wonder about ethics. There’s almost a recklessness in their behaviour.

Be careful of their arguments to bring your price down to an unbelievably low level.

The argument will go like this:

  • trumped up negative
  • exaggerated negative
  • rumour about the local area (completely untrue; in fact a lie)
  • several other irrelevant negatives

This then is their sales script or argument to get you to lower your price so that you end up with a loss and them with a profit.

Do they think sellers are fools?

Now if you are wondering whether what I’m saying is based on reality, then let me tell you I have real examples. But I’m not going to give them. Not on this platform.

There’s a lot more technical stuff to the negative behaviour by estate agents and I’ll leave it for another post.

All I can say is this: be careful who you choose as an estate agent.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

How do you relax and control stress in difficult times and when you need to make tough decisions?

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Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, and at times, we find ourselves facing challenging situations that evoke stress and anxiety.

Dr. Maxwell Maltz was a cosmetic surgeon who wrote the book “Psycho-Cybernetics” in the 1960s. In his book, he explains how our self-image is the key to human personality and human behavior. He believed that changing our self-image can change our personality and behavior1He also believed that relaxation is nature’s own tranquilizer which erects a psychic screen or umbrella between you and the disturbing stimulus2

In the words of Dr. Maxwell Maltz, renowned psychologist and author, our emotions are not controlled by external circumstances but by our own responses to them.

In this blog post, we will explore how understanding Dr. Maltz’s insights can help us gain control over stress during difficult times and enable us to make wiser decisions.

  1. Acknowledging the Power of Response:

Dr. Maltz reminds us that our emotions are not mere reactions to external events but are shaped by our responses. When we encounter a stressful situation, it is essential to recognize that we have the power to choose our response. Instead of letting stress overwhelm us, we can consciously respond with a calm and composed demeanor, setting the stage for constructive problem-solving.

  1. Embracing Relaxation as a Shield:

Tension in our muscles signifies a readiness to act or respond, while relaxation does the opposite. By intentionally relaxing our muscles, we induce a mental state of tranquility that acts as a protective shield against external stressors. Embracing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness exercises, can help us create an emotional barrier, shielding us from the turbulence of difficult situations.

  1. Making Decisions from a Place of Calm:

When we face tough decisions, stress and anxiety can cloud our judgment, leading to impulsive choices we may later regret. Dr. Maltz’s wisdom encourages us to seek mental relaxation before making significant decisions. By finding a quiet moment to calm our minds and bodies, we can tap into our inner wisdom and intuition, paving the way for more thoughtful and rational choices.

  1. Practicing Self-Compassion:

During challenging times, it’s essential to practice self-compassion and understand that stress is a natural response to difficulties. Instead of berating ourselves for feeling stressed, we should embrace the experience with kindness and compassion. Self-compassion allows us to be gentle with ourselves, helping us navigate through the storm with resilience and grace.

  1. Building Emotional Resilience:

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, and emotional resilience is particularly crucial during difficult times. Dr. Maltz’s teachings remind us that relaxation is nature’s tranquilizer, offering us the strength to endure life’s challenges. By consistently practicing relaxation techniques, we can bolster our emotional resilience, ensuring we remain steady even in the face of adversity.

  1. Seeking Support and Perspective:

Difficult times can feel isolating, but we are not alone in our struggles. Reach out to friends, family, or a trusted mentor to share your burdens and gain fresh perspectives. Talking to others can help us see our challenges from different angles and may offer valuable insights we hadn’t considered before.

Dr. Maxwell Maltz’s profound insights on stress and response offer us a powerful toolkit to navigate through difficult times and make sound decisions. By understanding that our emotions are influenced by our responses, we gain the power to control our stress levels and embrace relaxation as a protective shield. As we traverse life’s challenges, let us remember to be kind to ourselves, seek support, and practice emotional resilience. In doing so, we unlock the potential to weather any storm with grace and emerge stronger than before.

Dr. Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon and author, said that “our disturbed feelings – our anger, hostility, fear, anxiety, insecurity, are caused by our own responses – not by externals.” This means that the way we react to difficult situations is what causes us stress, not the situation itself.

If we can learn to control our responses, we can reduce our stress levels and make better decisions. Here are some tips for controlling stress when going through difficult times and making difficult decisions:

  • Identify your triggers. What are the things that make you feel stressed? Once you know your triggers, you can start to develop strategies for coping with them.
  • Take some time for yourself. When you are feeling stressed, it is important to take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress. This could mean taking a few minutes to meditate, go for a walk, or read a book.
  • Talk to someone you trust. Talking to someone you trust about how you are feeling can help you to feel less alone and more supported.
  • Make a plan. When you are facing a difficult decision, it can be helpful to make a plan. This will help you to feel more in control of the situation and less stressed.
  • Take things one step at a time. If you feel overwhelmed, break the decision down into smaller steps. This will make it seem less daunting and more manageable.
  • Remember that you are not alone. Everyone goes through difficult times. Remember that you are not alone and that you will get through this.

Controlling stress when going through difficult times and making difficult decisions is not easy. However, it is possible. By following these tips, you can reduce your stress levels and make better decisions.

In addition to the tips above, here are some other things you can do to control stress:

  • Get enough sleep. When you are well-rested, you are better able to cope with stress.
  • Eat a healthy diet. Eating healthy foods will give you the energy you need to deal with stress.
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mood.
  • Practice relaxation techniques. There are many relaxation techniques that can help you to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing.

If you are struggling to control stress on your own, there are professional resources available to help you. You can talk to a therapist, counselor, or other mental health professional. They can teach you coping skills and help you to develop a stress management plan.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

Is an auction sale a viable way of selling your home in a down property market?

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I’m looking at different ways of selling property in this down property market. Even if it means not selling and renting.

It’s time consuming researching various options for property in this collapsed property market but you’ve got to do everything you can do to make good decisions.

I attended a house auction about three weeks ago. There weren’t many buyers. The whole thing cost a lot with fat commissions and marketing fees.

I don’t know anything about auctioning of houses so it’s best to do your own homework and find out yourself if it’s a viable option for you.

All I know is, as I said, that it’s expensive and not a lot of people rock up at the auctions. I’m not sure why this is. Auctions used to have a stigma because it showed people were desperate to sell. I’m not sure if this perception has changed.

I am hesitant to look at the auction option mainly because of the costs involved. The cost means that you take out on the house sale is less. Simple as that really.

If you don’t have time on your hands and are forced to sell, it may be an option. But I repeat that you have to do your own home work and get professionals involved.

I did some research on auctions and if you are interested you can read it below.

Often when you do this research it makes it all seem believable and easy to do. But nothing is easy; everything requires diligence and hard work.

So I only give you this research in the spirit of a basic overview to familiarise yourself with auctioning of property.

If you were to go this route, it would be best to speak to professionals involved and do some heavy research on who to use.

Always seek the best professional advice before you make major decisions.

So here it is – a quick overview of the pros and cons of auctioning property in this country.

Pros:

  1. Speed of Sale: One of the main advantages of putting your house or flat on auction is the potential for a quick sale. The competitive bidding environment can attract motivated buyers, leading to a faster transaction compared to the traditional selling process.
  2. Transparency and Fair Market Value: Auctions are known for their transparency, as all interested buyers have an equal opportunity to bid. This can result in the property being sold at its fair market value, especially if there’s high demand and competitive bidding.
  3. Non-Conditional Sale: When the hammer falls, the sale is considered final, and there are no conditions attached to the purchase. This eliminates the possibility of lengthy negotiations or the sale falling through due to buyer financing issues.
  4. Marketing Exposure: Auctions can provide extensive marketing exposure for your property. Auction houses often employ various marketing channels to attract potential buyers, which can lead to a broader audience and increased interest.

Cons:

  1. Uncertain Selling Price: While auctions can fetch fair market value, they can also lead to uncertainty regarding the final selling price. If there’s a lack of interest or competitive bidding, the property might sell for less than what you were hoping for.
  2. Costly Auction Fees: Auctioning property involves additional costs, including auctioneer fees, marketing expenses, and administrative charges. These fees can significantly impact the overall net proceeds from the sale.
  3. Limited Buyer Pool: Auctions may not attract all potential buyers, as some might prefer traditional methods of purchasing property. This could limit the number of interested parties and potentially reduce the final selling price.
  4. Emotionally Draining: For some sellers, the auction process can be emotionally taxing, as they witness their property being bid on in real-time, possibly leading to feelings of stress and anxiety.

Like I said, auctioning property in South Africa may be an option if you are looking for a fast sale. But you’ve got to weigh the potential benefits against the uncertainties and additional costs involved in the process.

I must repeat that every situation is unique, so carefully consider your circumstances and consult with professionals to make an informed decision.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

What options do you have if can’t sell your house in this market?

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In the provinces outside of the Western Cape the property market is in a depressed state.

We know the reasons for this. The racist nationalist government is too busy stealing money to provide basic services and is lowering the quality of life for the country’s citizens.

It’s not just the cabinet ministers who are abusing their power, it’s also the officials in the provinces and municipalities.

All the uncertainties that this creates means that the property market is taking a knock. Yes, of course there are sales but much fewer than what a healthy property market should be.

If you can’t sell your house in the current market, you might consider the following options:

  1. Lowering the asking price: Reducing the price could attract more potential buyers.
  2. Improve the property: Making necessary repairs or upgrades can increase the house’s appeal.
  3. Renting it out: Consider becoming a landlord and generating rental income.
  4. Lease-to-own: Offer a lease-to-own arrangement to potential buyers who may not qualify for a mortgage immediately.
  5. Seek professional advice: Consult with a real estate agent or property expert to get guidance on market conditions and strategies.
  6. Wait for market changes: Sometimes, the market may improve over time, so patience might be necessary.

Keep in mind that the best option depends on your specific circumstances, so it’s essential to carefully evaluate your situation before making a decision.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

How do you create a pen profile of the ideal buyer for your property in a collapsed property market?

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In ordinary times you wouldn’t be so concerned about the right profile of a person to buy your property. However, when times are tough and the property market is down it pays to do some thinking about your potential buyers.

It’s really no different from any sales process. You need to think about who has an interest in buying a property. Also, who has the money to buy a property in a depressed market? And what sort of person would be interested in your property either to live in or rent it out as an investment opportunity.

Creating a pen profile (also known as a buyer persona) for the ideal buyer in a collapsed property market involves researching and understanding the target audience.

Gather data on the current market conditions, demographics, and economic trends that affect buyers in the collapsed property market.

Understand why potential buyers might be interested in purchasing a property despite the market downturn. It could be for investment opportunities, downsizing, or relocation needs.

Determine the financial capabilities of the ideal buyer. Are they cash buyers, first-time homeowners, or investors with specific budget constraints?

Identify the type of property the ideal buyer would prefer, such as single-family homes, flats, duplexes or fix up/renovation homes.

Research the preferred locations for potential buyers within the collapsed property market. Some may be looking for specific neighborhoods or areas with potential for future growth.

Consider the lifestyle and needs of the ideal buyer. Are they looking for properties with amenities, proximity to schools, public transportation, or commercial areas?

Understand the challenges potential buyers might face in the current market and how your property can address those pain points.

Tailor your marketing messages and listing descriptions to appeal to the identified buyer persona, emphasizing the unique selling points that align with their preferences and needs.

Continuously monitor the market to adapt your pen profile as the market conditions and buyer preferences may change during the collapse.

By creating a well-defined pen profile, you can better target your marketing efforts, making your property more appealing to potential buyers in a down property market.

Disclaimer: The report is for public distribution and has been furnished solely for information. None can use the report as a base for any claim, demand or cause of action and, also none is responsible for any loss incurred based upon. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this site. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. All sources of information acknowledged.

How to sell your property in a collapsed market

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It’s very difficult. There are few buyers because of the high interest rates and the uncertainty in the country resulting from a corrupt and malicious government.

You can exclude the Cape Province because this is a province with proper government and governance. There the property market is booming for a number of reasons.

Yet, people living and working in the corrupt provinces still need to work and live. So there are buyers but they are choosy. Then you get the bargain hunters.

The bargain hunters have increased.This is an iffy bunch, the dregs really, because there are are many administrative staff earning fat salaries at big companies. The other thing is that they are weighing up the pros and cons ?of renting and property ownership.

And so, how do you attract the right kind of buyer in this collapsed market?

There are no easy answers. You need to be choosy about the estate agents you appoint. Not all of them are as professional as you might think. Their so-called marketing plans rely on the Internet and social media. Many don’t even have proper direct mail lists of potential buyers.

Selling property in a collapsed market can be challenging, but here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

  1. Price it Competitively: Set a realistic and competitive price for your property to attract potential buyers in a down market.
  2. Enhance Curb Appeal: Make your property visually appealing by improving its curb appeal. First impressions matter, even more so in a tough market.
  3. Highlight Unique Features: Emphasize any unique features or selling points of your property to make it stand out among other listings.
  4. Offer Incentives: Consider offering incentives to potential buyers, such as covering closing costs or including some furniture/appliances.
  5. Flexible Negotiation: Be open to negotiating with buyers to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
  6. Market Aggressively: Use various marketing channels, both online and offline, to reach a broader audience.
  7. Stage the Property: Consider staging the property to make it more inviting and help potential buyers visualize its potential.
  8. Work with Experienced Agents: Seek the help of experienced real estate agents who have a track record of success in tough markets.
  9. Disclose Information: Be transparent about any issues with the property. Honesty builds trust with potential buyers.
  10. Patience and Persistence: Understand that selling in a collapsed market might take longer, so be patient and persistent in your efforts.

Remember that each real estate market is unique, so it’s crucial to adapt your approach based on the local conditions and seek advice from professionals in your area.

Don‘t forget to speak to trusted friends and neighbours who know the local market. You can’t just leave it to the so-called professionals. They have so many sellers trying to sell their homes that it’s hard enough for them to keep pace.

The point is to do your homework and think of every opportunity to sell your property.

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