Tips on writing your own property details
Although there are some estate agents who are brilliant at composing professional property brochures, most churn out fairly standard details, sometimes containing glaring mistakes – such as the wrong EPC rating or describing a terraced house as semi-detached. That said, one thing pretty much all agents are very good at is getting nice photos that present the properties on their books in the best possible light – see below.
So before embarking on a private sale, it’s essential to come up with something that’s professional-looking to create desire in prospective buyers that can be posted online, handed out and emailed.
If your house is already on the market with an agent, you could base it on their details, which were probably based on what you told them in the first place! The trick is to keep it simple – don’t make amazing claims that lead to grave disappointment when the property is viewed. In the space of a page or two stress the best features, such as any views, potential to extend, plot size, improvements etc.
Browse a few sets of details on other properties to get the general idea. When done, finish with the sort of disclaimer widely used by estate agents at the bottom of the page:-
These particulars are believed to be correct and are intended as a general guide only. They don’t constitute an offer or any part of a contract. Purchasers are advised to take independent legal advice and rely on their own surveyor and solicitors.
Photography
Central to creating a good impression is the killer photograph. As noted above, this is something most agents do extremely well.
Taking a decent picture of your own house shouldn’t prove too difficult. Of course, there are a few tips to bear in mind. A blue sky makes a massive difference to perception; and, obviously, clearing assorted wheelie bins and rusty old bikes out of the picture before snapping can’t do any harm.
A wide-angle lens can also help. Again, emphasise your property’s best features.
Our next blog – coming soon ……
Selling privately (continued)
Check out our Rightsurvey blog page for more industry tips and secrets written by property professionals to help put you in control.
