Open inspections vs private viewings for Gold Coast property sellers
Open inspections allow multiple buyers to view your Gold Coast property simultaneously, creating a sense of urgency and broad exposure. At the same time, private viewings offer one-on-one appointments for serious buyers seeking a more personal experience. Using both methods can help attract interest and improve your chances of a successful sale.
What You Need to Know About Property Viewings on the Gold Coast
Selling your property on the Gold Coast involves giving buyers a chance to view your home either through open inspections or private viewings. As your real estate agent, I’ll work with you to decide on the best approach for showcasing your home, maximising exposure, and attracting offers. Each method has benefits, and understanding them will help us reach the right buyers.
What is an Open Inspection?
Definition and Benefits
An open inspection allows multiple potential buyers to view your property at a scheduled time, eliminating the need for individual appointments. This public viewing type offers a relaxed setting where buyers can freely explore the property. Open inspections attract a wider audience, including serious buyers and curious onlookers, adding to the property’s visibility and demand.
How Open Inspections Help Sell Your Property
Maximising Exposure
Open inspections are an effective way to quickly increase interest. With the flexibility to visit without scheduling, more buyers tend to attend. This method can create a competitive atmosphere, especially when multiple people are viewing at the same time. The greater the turnout, the higher the perceived value of your property, encouraging motivated buyers to make offers.
Preparing Your Home for an Open Inspection
Home Presentation Tips
For an open inspection, it’s essential to make a strong impression. I’ll help you prepare by suggesting ways to enhance the appeal of each room. This might include decluttering, ensuring good lighting, and adding small touches like fresh flowers or clean windows. Buyers are more likely to connect with a home that looks and feels welcoming.
What is a Private Viewing?
Definition and Personalised Approach
Unlike open inspections, private viewings are scheduled with one potential buyer at a time. This exclusive experience lets serious buyers explore at their own pace and ask detailed questions. Private viewings cater to buyers who prefer a quieter, more focused look at the property.
Advantages of Private Viewings
Why Some Buyers Prefer Privacy
Private viewings appeal to buyers looking for a more personalised experience. Without other viewers present, buyers can focus in-depth on the property. This method often works well with serious buyers who want to imagine the home as their own.
How I’ll Assist You During Open Inspections
Role of a Good Real Estate Agent
During open inspections, I’ll manage buyer interactions, answer questions, and highlight the property’s features. I’ll ensure the atmosphere is comfortable, providing buyers with space to explore while offering guidance when needed. My goal is to create an environment that showcases the full potential of your home to potential buyers.
Scheduling and Planning Inspections
Selecting the Best Times
Choosing the right time for open and private inspections is key. Together, we’ll decide on the best times that fit your schedule and appeal to the most buyers. Typically, weekends or early evenings work well, but we’ll adjust based on your location and buyer availability.
Attracting Different Buyer Types
Open vs. Private Viewing Preferences
Each buyer has unique preferences. Open inspections attract both casual visitors and serious buyers, while private viewings tend to appeal more to committed buyers. We’ll use both approaches to capture different types of interest, helping us find the best buyer for your property.
Making the Most of Buyer Feedback
Improving Future Viewings
Feedback from buyers gives valuable insights that we can use to improve future inspections. After each viewing, I’ll gather responses and discuss any adjustments we might need. This feedback loop ensures that each viewing works to enhance your property’s appeal and bring in more potential buyers.
Safety and Security During Inspections
Protecting Your Home
Ensuring your home’s safety during open inspections is a priority. I’ll provide guidelines to secure personal belongings and advise on simple measures to keep the property safe. With these precautions in place, you can focus on showcasing your home without worry.
How to Decide Between Open Inspections and Private Viewings
Factors to Consider
The choice between open inspections and private viewings depends on factors like property type, location, and buyer interest. I’ll help you weigh these considerations, making it easy to choose the best option that suits your property and maximises exposure.
How Open Inspections and Private Viewings Benefit You
Boosting Interest and Value
Using both viewing methods broadens our reach, attracting a diverse range of buyers and generating more interest. This balanced approach increases your chances of a successful sale at the best possible price, ensuring we connect with the right buyers.
How I’ll Support You in Choosing the Best Approach
Tailoring Strategy to Your Property
Every property is unique, so I’ll work with you to create a viewing strategy that aligns with your goals. I aim to maximise visibility, highlight your property’s strengths, and ultimately secure the best possible offer.
Choosing between open inspections and private viewings can significantly impact your sale outcome. With my guidance, we’ll leverage both methods to attract interest, create competition, and ultimately secure the best possible buyer for your property.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does an open inspection usually last?
A: Typically, an open inspection lasts 20 to 30 minutes, allowing buyers enough time to view the property comfortably.
Q2: Can I attend the open inspection?
A: It’s often best if you’re not present, as it helps buyers feel more at ease. I’ll handle all questions and keep you updated afterwards.
Q3: What happens if multiple buyers are interested after an open inspection?
A: We can use this competition to your advantage, encouraging offers and potentially achieving a higher sale price.
Q4: How many private viewings can we schedule?
A: We can arrange as many private viewings as needed based on buyer demand and your schedule.
Q5: How do I prepare my property for viewings?
A: Simple steps like cleaning, organising, and ensuring good lighting make a big difference.
THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY TO A SUCCESSFUL GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE STARTS
My simplified guide below will take you through a 20-step process for selling your property anywhere on the Gold Coast;
I proudly sell homes across the entire coast.
1. PREPARING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY FOR SALE + SOME OF THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- Tidying gardens and decluttering everything inside and out.
- All homes for sale, are legally required to have hardwired photoelectric, interconnected smoke alarms.
Non-removable 10-year battery smoke alarms can be installed as an alternative.
- By law, you are required to complete a pre-contractual seller’s disclosure statement: generally related to limitations, restraints, or defects in the property title, such as easements, covenants, leasing, zoning, etc.
- A pool safety certificate is also required if you have a swimming pool or if the property has a shared swimming pool (Body Corporate).
2. COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS REPORT FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
After showing me around your property, I will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report. This is a detailed, legally required analysis of your home’s market value.
The CMA is based on recently sold and for-sale properties similar to yours in the immediate area. I will need to view your home to prepare this report.
3. SETTING A MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST HOME
The third step in selling your home is to create a marketing budget.
By law, this must be based on actual costs.
There are various marketing options to consider, such as:
– Internal, External and Drone Photography.
– Property and House Plans show potential buyers the exact layout of your home and property.
– Internet Advertising on platforms such as RealEstate.com.au, Domain.com.au, Facebook.com, Instagram.com, etc.
– For Sale Sign on the street is still essential to attracting potential buyers. Even though many buyers start their search online, they often drive around neighbourhoods to see what’s available.
A simple fact: Not having a For Sale sign can significantly reduce the number of people who see your property and may be interested in buying it.
4. PREPARING AND APPROVING THE FORM 6 AGREEMENT WHEN SELLING A GOLD COAST PROPERTY
A Form 6 Agreement is a document provided by the Queensland State Government. It outlines all relevant details of the property sale, including the marketing budget.
Our administration team will prepare this form for you and send it for your review and approval.
5. PAYING THE MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
Once you have approved the Form 6 Agreement, the next step is to pay for the marketing budget that you have chosen.
6. STARTING THE ADVERTISING PROCESS
Once your payment is received, the advertising campaign will commence.
Advertising strategies will align with the choices you made within your marketing budget.
7. MONITORING MARKET RESPONSE
If your property hasn’t received offers within 30 days, don’t assume there’s no interest.
It often means the price isn’t aligned with what buyers are willing to pay at this time.
This is your signal to review and adjust your pricing strategy so your home remains competitive and receives the attention it deserves.
8. ARRANGING BUYER VIEWINGS
When buyers express interest in your property, viewings will be arranged to allow them to see your home in person; you need to be away from the property during these viewings.
This helps potential buyers feel relaxed and visualise themselves as the new owners, thereby forming a deeper connection with your property.
9. CONSIDERING A BUYER’S OFFER
When you receive an offer on your home, it means a buyer is serious and ready to move forward at a certain price.
This is a key moment in your selling journey. Take the time to go over the offer carefully.
Look beyond the price; check the terms, conditions, and settlement timeframes. Make sure it works for you before accepting, countering, or declining.
10. ACCEPT, COUNTER, REJECT
When an offer is presented, you will need to respond by accepting, countering, or rejecting it.
Accepting locks in the agreed-upon price and terms.
Countering proposes changes and initiates further negotiations. If countering, present revised terms clearly; open, respectful communication is key for a smooth sale.
Rejecting means the offer is unacceptable; in this case, respond promptly and professionally, explaining your reasoning for the decision.
11. YOUR LEGALITIES
When you finally accept an offer, you will engage your conveyancer or solicitor to facilitate the legal requirements to complete the sale.
If you are part of a Body Corporate, you will need to provide a Disclosure Statement from them.
Your solicitor will use PEXA to settle your property. Part of the process requires Verification of Identity. Also, anyone selling a property must complete an ATO Clearance Certificate.
12. BUYER’S DEPOSIT
The buyer’s deposit is a crucial step in the property purchase process; it will be held in the agency’s Trust account.
This is a tangible expression of the buyer’s commitment to purchase your property.
13. BUILDING AND PEST INSPECTIONS
Typically, a buyer will arrange for a building and pest inspection report to be completed, usually within 14 days of the contract date.
Additionally, they may have the contract subject to finance, which is generally applicable for 21 days from the contract date.
14. COMPLETING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE
Based on the outcome of the building and pest inspection report, as well as any finance being sought, the buyer will proceed with their offer or withdraw it.
At this point, the sale either falls through or becomes unconditional.
15. LOOKING FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY
If the sale becomes unconditional, it is time to start looking for a new property. Remember, there is no need to rush.
It is essential that you take your time, as this needs to be a very considered purchase.
Your new home is of substantial value and can be costly if you change your mind. Something you may want to investigate is Short-Term Bridging Loans.
16. ALTERNATIVES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER
An alternative to seriously consider when deciding where to live between selling and buying is renting while you look for a new property.
Renting for a short period gives you breathing room; it allows you time to clear your head, make a confident, considered decision, and ultimately buy where you truly want to live, with no pressure or panic.
17. TIME FOR YOU TO MOVE
Leaving your home opens doors to a new chapter full of new beginnings. Embrace the excitement of a fresh start and cherish the memories you’ve made.
Every box you pack brings you one step closer to a new adventure full of possibilities that lie ahead.
18. YOUR SALE CONCLUDES
The culmination of the property sale is settlement; it marks the transfer of the property to the new buyer.
As the final chapter concludes, this marks a sense of achievement: your property has now SOLD.
19. YOUR FUTURE OPTIONS
If you have chosen to rent, you will continue to look for and eventually purchase a property, apartment, or perhaps even buy land and build; now there’s something to consider.
20. TIME TO UNWIND AND MAKE YOUR NEW HOME YOUR OWN
As you unpack and furnish your new home, embrace the gradual process of creating your haven.
Enjoy the transformation, one room at a time.
Relax in the tranquillity of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of your new neighbourhood.
Explore the nearby parks and cafes; enjoy the unique charm of your new community.
Remember, settling in is a journey in itself; it’s not a race. Embrace the process of creating a home that reflects your unique style and personality.
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or just ready to move on, I’ll guide you through every step of selling your Gold Coast home with confidence and ease.
Navigating the intricacies of selling your property can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.
My 20-step guide provides a simplified general overview; as you would naturally expect, your steps may vary.
Author – Craig Douglas
Are you ready for a conversation about selling your Gold Coast home?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD
Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
You can find me working at a Boutique Real Estate Agency
These are just some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Palm Beach
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
