Market statistics show that prospective buyers are more likely to visit show houses when temperatures rise during spring.
The changing behaviour that brings seasonality to the market is all the more reason why spring is the time to list your property.
But the numbers also show that there’s little more impressive than finding an ideal home in mint condition. The first and lasting impressions of your home by prospective buyers are enhanced when your property appears perfect.
Adrian Goslett, CEO of RE/MAX Southern Africa, says that a home’s condition and appearance impact on the success of the property being sold for its maximum potential. “Even though the market conditions are currently in the sellers’ favour, to ensure that homeowners sell their property for the best possible price they will need to stand out from the competition and be show-day ready.”
Springing into action
This selling tip was seen at work last weekend at the start of the Cape West Coast flower season, when the town of Langebaan rose to the occasion by showing that “spring is the time for plans and projects”.
Idyllic weather conditions drew crowds of visitors to see the Namaqualand daisies turning towards the sun along the N7 and the West Coast National Park toward Saldanha Bay. Property owners and local agents were showing the spring in their step with “for sale” and “to rent” signs up and ready, alerting potential buyers to available stock.
This was when a bird’s eye view from across the lagoon induced an immediate desire to explore the promising West Coast property market. It also emphasised the value of well maintained waterside properties that stand out above the rest, bearing little evidence of a harsh winter and salty weather conditions. The thawing sun lured prospective buyers toward freshly-painted houses amid colourful gardens with stylish outdoor furniture, in a welcoming neighbourhood.
It’s an emotional thing
Goslett confirms: “The overall look and feel of the home will generate a greater emotional response than any other factor, and prospective buyers will use their sensual perception to react to what they see, hear, feel and smell, even when a property has been priced at fair market value.”
Other benefits to buyers were seen where older houses that underwent refurbishing allowed for energy efficient renewals, such as optimum orientation of new additions, and retrofitted wood-burning fire places, heat pumps, time switches, and modern appliances.
Locals who have prioritised energy efficiency and low maintenance when purchasing new homes say that early planning on the other hand, allows sustainable installations of exterior fittings, such as solar water panels, rain water catchment and sustainable timber decking.