Today's housing market is challenging, and therefore, if you are considering selling your home, it could look like a daunting prospect. There is no doubt the current economic climate is playing its part, which is why it is essential to get a good understanding through research such as the latest Nationwide House Price Index. However, there are also things you should consider and do if you wish to maximise the value of your home for a successful sale.

The British housing market has faced a setback, with a 5.3% fall in prices over the year till September marking a decrease in value across all regions, according to Nationwide. Nationwide, the country's largest building society, released a house price index at the beginning of this month revealing that seasonally adjusted prices came to a halt in September after experiencing an 0.8% dip in August. With the average home valued at £257,808, nearly £14,500 less than the previous year's average, the market has been hampered due to increased interest rates that the Bank of England enforced to manage the surging inflation which arose due to the pandemic and Russia's incursion of Ukraine.

The impact of the Bank of England's interest rate hikes on the housing market is evident. In August, just 45,400 mortgages were approved for house purchase, according to the latest data from the bank. Nationwide reported that this figure is approximately 30% lower than the monthly average in 2019 before the pandemic and the resulting unstable conditions in the housing market.

Robert Gardner, Nationwide’s chief economist, said: “This relatively subdued picture is not surprising given the more challenging picture for housing affordability. For example, someone earning an average income and purchasing the typical first-time buyer home with a 20% deposit would spend 38% of their take home pay on their monthly mortgage payment – well above the long-run average of 29%.”

Pricing your home correctly is crucial when selling in a challenging market. It can make the difference between attracting interested buyers or being overlooked. To determine the right price, you need to consider a few key factors. You should always consult with a reputable estate agent who has experience selling homes in challenging markets. They can provide valuable insight and help you determine a realistic asking price based on market conditions and buyer demand.

Keep in mind that pricing too high may deter buyers, while pricing too low could lead to a financial loss. Getting the balance right is an art, and with the right agent, you still have the potential to attract multiple offers. Setting the right price for your home requires careful consideration and research. By accurately pricing your property, you can maximise your chances of achieving a successful sale.

When it comes to selling your home in a challenging market, staging your property can make all the difference. The goal is to create a space that is appealing and inviting to potential buyers, allowing them to envision themselves living there. Here are some tips to help you stage your home effectively.

1. Declutter: clear away any unnecessary items and create a clean, open space. This will make your home feel larger and more inviting.

2. Neutralise: while you may love bold colours and patterns, it's best to keep your decoration neutral. This allows buyers to imagine their own furniture and belongings in the space.

3. Highlight key features: if you have any standout features in your home, such as a fireplace or large windows, make sure to highlight them. Arrange furniture and accessories in a way that draws attention to these focal points.

4. Maximise natural light: open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. This will create a bright and airy atmosphere, making your home feel more welcoming.

5. Add fresh touches: a vase of flowers, a bowl of fresh fruit or some scented candles can add a touch of freshness and create a welcoming ambience

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Remember, staging is all about creating a positive first impression.

When selling your home in a challenging market, at Regal Estates we have the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of the current market conditions and help you achieve a successful sale. With our deep understanding of the local market, we can provide valuable insight on pricing your home competitively through thorough market analysis to determine current demand and buyer trends.