When putting a house for sale on the market, it is necessary to take into account some elements of the property itself that may influence the final result of the operation. The location and the initial price are the main factors that will attract interested parties, but for the sale to be a success, the state of conservation of the house and its reputation in the area will also influence potential buyers. Real estate agents in the USA have prepared a list of factors that they claim make a house unsellable. From an inadequate starting price, to an undesirable location, bad smells or old decoration, these things will certainly have an effect on any sale and will certainly be relevant if selling property in Portugal. Let's have a look at what to avoid.
A bad location. Having the house near an airport, a high-voltage electricity line, a busy street or next to a nightclub can cause problems when selling it. "Location is a critical factor," real estate agents state. "And bad location can only be corrected by lowering the price," they warn.
An unrealistic price. When a house isn't sold, in a lot of cases it's probably because the price is too high. "A property that's not sold is one that doesn't have the right price", a point that several agents mentioned.
Bad smells. It seems like something insignificant, but unpleasant smells are one of the most common reasons for a sales transaction to fail. And it's not just bad smells from the pipes or if the seller smokes at home, having pets in the property can also influence decisions.
Lack of natural light. The amount of natural daylight is another key factor for the success or failure of a sale, making the house more or less desirable, along with the initial price. "Lack of light can drive buyers away".
A death in the house. Some agents stated that a death in the property can also influence buyers. At the time of sale, the knowledge of a sinister event in the house can also influence its final price, especially if it the events were violent.
Bad architecture. Architectural factors are also an issue and main problem is when these things cannot be altered: this includes things besides the location, such as low ceilings, columns in strange places or a difficult floor plan that cannot be easily modified.
Damp. There are also structural problems that can affect the operation, while having mold or moisture in the house can reverse the sale.
Maintenance or structural problems. A house that has been neglected in terms of repairs that have never been retired can lose a lot of value in the market.
Outdated decoration. A badly decorated house can lose its attraction on the market, especially when it comes to kitchens and bathrooms. The owner should keep in mind that they should put the house on sale as a commercial product. "Adjusting the small details of a house, even if you have to invest in some upgrades, can really increase the value of a house".
A messy house. You have to put your house on stage to sell it. When it comes to showing the house or taking photographs, there can be no clothes on the floor or other disorganised elements. It is a job of order and organisation, like any other.
Sellers who do not cooperate. If the owner of the house hires a real estate agent, but the agent and home owner do not cooperate in the selling process, it can be an obstacle to the success of the operation, and the attitude of the seller can make the sale fail.
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