Putting your home on the market

Q: I’m planning on selling my property but the process sounds so complicated! What do I need to consider?

A: Putting your home on the market is a complicated journey but an experienced estate agent will demystify the process and guide you through each of the five key stages.

The first step is a market appraisal.

At Sherry FitzGerald, with over 100 branches across the country, the process begins when a client makes contact with our local branch. You can request a valuation on our website, phone your local office, or even walk in off the street, as many people still prefer to meet us in person! Once you get in touch, we’ll arrange an initial appointment for one of our experienced estate agents to review your property comprehensively. This first step, known as a market appraisal, is crucial as it allows us to get to know you and understand what’s important to you. During the visit, we’ll discuss the method of sale, provide an overview of the sales process, and give you an indication of the current market value of your home.

There are several methods of selling your property, and it's essential to choose the one that best suits your needs. In the majority of cases, properties are sold by private treaty, where we list your property on the open market and work actively to generate interest and secure offers. Another option is an off-market sale, a private approach where we contact pre-qualified buyers without publicly listing your property, offering a more discreet sales process. Properties can also be sold at auction, though this method is relatively rare in Ireland.

Next, you’ll need to appoint a solicitor. A property solicitor with knowledge and experience will play a crucial role in the process of putting your home on the market and will look after your legal interests throughout. Their jobs included getting your title deeds from the bank, drawing up the relevant contracts in a timely manner, and making sure they come back signed. Your estate agent will ask for your solicitor’s contact details and together they will form your team.

The third step is to agree a plan of action. This plan is decided by you and your estate agent and it’s an important part of the sales process. At this point we’ll ensure that that all your documentation is in order. You’ll be required to sign a ‘terms of engagement’ contract containing standard terms from the Property Services Regulatory Authority (PRSA). Basically, this is about proving your identity and address. You may also need certificates of compliance for any works you’ve done on the house or land registry maps, if the boundaries are unclear. These are legal documents. If they’re required, your solicitor will assist. We’ll also agree on your overall marketing strategy before your house goes on the market.

The fourth step is to prepare your property, first for photography and then for showing to potential buyers. This may take place through conventional viewings or an open viewing. It’s crucial that your home is clean, clear, fully functional, and in good repair. This may just involve a lick of paint, but some properties need a complete overhaul. Your estate agent will help you ensure your home is presented in the most appealing way for potential buyers.

The final step is advertising your property. This is one of our areas of expertise. Once the property has been refreshed and revitalised, it’s ready to be professionally photographed. We’ll arrange the photographer and also the type of photographs they take. In some cases, an aerial photograph can show off the property to its best advantage. Then, we’ll put your marketing strategy to work. A high quality brochure, backed up by a comprehensive online and offline campaign, will help you connect with your buyer.

All being well, your agent will soon be in touch with the offer you’re looking for.

Ready to start your property journey? Visit us at sherryfitz.ie or contact your local Sherry FitzGerald office today to get started!