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Top tips to make your property listing stand out

22 Jan 2025

With the majority of buyers starting their search online, it’s crucial to ensure that your property grabs attention and leaves a lasting impression. Careful photo curation, a well-thought-out property description, and providing as much detail as possible can help make sure your listing comes out on top.

READ: Benefits of real estate agents for buyers and sellers

Having a good listing is not only important for satiating the buyer’s interest, but it is also vital in terms of the listing’s visibility.

According to Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares tips help sellers ensure their property listing stands out.

High-Quality Photography

First impressions matter, and the photos of your property are the first thing potential buyers see. Invest in professional photography to showcase your property’s best features. Ensure that images are well-lit, high-resolution, and taken from flattering angles. Most importantly, before the photographer arrives, declutter, clean, and arrange furniture to highlight the home’s layout and flow. Consider hiring a professional stager to create an appealing, move-in-ready look.

Provide Accurate and Complete Information

Buyers eliminate options based on the listing itself – if the information they want is not included, then they will simply keep scrolling. Be sure to include all relevant details such as square meterage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, property taxes, and any levies or homeowners association fees. Clear and complete information helps buyers decide whether they want to take the next step and view the home in person. A detailed and engaging description that highlights the property’s key features and benefits will also prove helpful in this regard.

READ: Tips: 3 ways to stay on budget when renovating your home

Virtual Tours and Videos

Incorporate virtual tours or walkthrough videos to give buyers a comprehensive view of the property. Interactive and video content allows potential buyers to explore the space from the comfort of their homes, increasing engagement and interest. This is especially important with the rising trend for cross-country or foreign buyers who purchase properties without viewing it in person.

Work with an Experienced Real Estate Agent

Ultimately, if you partner with a knowledgeable real estate agent, you won’t have to worry about the quality of your listing. They understand market trends, know how to price the property competitively, and have marketing strategies to maximize exposure on listing portals.

“A skilled agent will manage every aspect of the listing process—from professional photography and compelling descriptions to effective marketing and price negotiations. Their expertise ensures your property gets maximum exposure and attracts the right buyers, allowing you to focus on your next move with peace of mind,” says Goslett.

READ: Selling your home? There are up to 5 compliance certificates to be obtained

 Tyson Properties shares some boxes to tick when getting your home show house ready:

  • Remove all evidence of everyday living – sweep floors, vacuum carpets, clean windows and empty dustbins. Pack away kids’ toys and any washing.
  • Bathrooms and kitchens are usually the rooms most under scrutiny - so, make sure counter tops are clear, there are no dishes in the sink and no rings around basins or baths. Air fresheners or diffusers in bathrooms are a must. Also, make sure that there are toilet rolls for guests and that toilet lids are closed.
  • Temperature – if it’s a scorching hot day, set the aircons and fans and if it’s chilly, either get the fireplace going or strategically place a heater to warm up rooms.
  • Declutter – if you’re selling, chances are you’ll be moving soon, so pack what you can in boxes for storage. Full cupboards suggest there is not enough storage space.
  • Depersonalise – this is the best way to help a prospective buyer imagine they can live in your home. In addition to removing photographs and kids’ artwork and shopping lists from the fridge, pack away personal items such as hair and toothbrushes and medication. 
  • Do some gardening – make sure the lawn is mowed, edges are trimmed and leaves are raked up.
  • Pool hygiene – make sure your pool is clean and blue. You could even leave the creepy doing its rounds to prove all is in working order.
  • Outbuildings – keep these as neat as your home as buyers will want to see them and don’t want to be confronted by everything that you have removed from the house or greasy and dusty garages!
  • Lighting – open curtains to let in natural light and make sure that any dim corners are lit by lamps to create a welcoming ambience. 
  • Welcoming touches – add fresh flowers or fruit bowls and strategically position potted plants to add a dash of colour. An orchid in the bathroom and neatly folded hand towels can made a good impression.

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