How to avoid costly mistakes when selling your home

Every seller wishes for a smooth transaction that leads to a lucrative sale. But, if you don't do your due diligence, numerous pitfalls can come up along the way, which could impact the final outcome of the sale.

"However, by preparing for the possible issues that could arise, you can increase your chances of a successful sale.Working with experienced professionals from Property Practitioners to home inspectors can also help you navigate the process more effectively," says Gerhard Kotzé, CEO of the RealNet property group.

The main reasons for an unsuccessful sale are:

* Overpricing: One of the most common mistakes is setting an unrealistic asking price. Overpricing can deter potential buyers and cause your home to sit on the market for an extended period. An experienced Property Practitioner should be able to help you set an accurate price.

* Inspection issues: Inspection issues such as structural problems, outdated systems, or safety hazards can lead to negotiations, price reductions, and even deal cancellations. The risk of this occurring is higher in older properties because compliance laws change over time. To avoid this issue it might be worthwhile to conduct an inspection of your home before listing it for sale.

* Finance issues: Even if you find a willing buyer, finance issues can still come about. Cash buyers might struggle to come up with the cash in time for the transaction to go through, while buyers relying on home finance may fail to secure a home loan for a number of reasons. But, ensuring that potential buyers have pre-approval for a loan can help mitigate this risk.

And the mistakes you should watch out for when selling your home are:

* Neglecting repairs and staging: Failing to address necessary repairs and not properly staging your home can seriously affect its appeal. Before listing, make sure to fix any noticeable issues, clean thoroughly, and consider staging to highlight your home's best features and create a welcoming environment.

* Being inflexible with showings: Limiting showing times or being inflexible with potential buyers' schedules can reduce the number of interested buyers. Be accommodating and make your home available for viewings as much as possible to increase your chances of finding the right buyer.

* Going it alone: Selling a home involves a number of legal and logistical steps. Working with a qualified Property Practitioner, lawyer, and conveyancer can ensure that every aspect of the transaction is handled properly, as this will reduce the risk of errors and complications.

By being mindful of these mistakes and issues, you can ensure that you'll be giving yourself the best chance to sell your home at a price you find fair.