With the property market buoyant and more buyers than there are properties for sale, it pays to get on the right side of your sellers right from the start.
Estate agent comparison site Getagent.co.uk conducted research into sellers’ pet hates when it comes to buyers.
Moving house can be a stressful experience and emotions can run high. When a seller puts their house on the market, they are effectively opening their home to strangers. It is no wonder then that they can readily take offence to perceived bad manners, meaning that buyers may be at a disadvantage before they have even made an offer.
With a shortage of properties on the market to satisfy those hoping to move, buyers need to avoid upsetting sellers wherever possible. When there is plenty of choice, sellers can afford to reject those to whom they have taken a dislike.
First impressions
A positive first impression is vital, with 72 per cent of sellers questioned saying that a good first impression was an important influence on who they would sell to.
Over a third said that they would also be likely to accept a lower offer from a buyer who makes a good first impression unless it was considerably lower.
Punctuality was also important to 16 per cent of sellers, who preferred buyers not to arrive either too early or too late.
Pet hates
The biggest pet hate for sellers was home viewers who made negative comments within earshot about their home or their children or pets. Some 28 per cent of sellers ranked this as their biggest dislike.
Failing to practice Covid-safe measures such as not wearing a facemask was next at 24 per cent.
General bad manners such as sitting on furniture or entering a room without permission was the biggest annoyance for 15 per cent of respondents, while 12 per cent cited failing to remove unclean shoes or clothing when entering the property. Only 6 per cent said none of these things were a pet hate.
Good home buying practice
It always makes sense to treat potential sellers as well as possible to try and help your home purchase through as smoothly as possible. A positive relationship where your sellers think well of you really can make a difference during what is often a stressful time.
When difficulties arise, if your seller is inclined to try and meet you halfway, it can make the difference between a transaction succeeding or failing.
Try to be as easy going and well-mannered as possible and if you have to raise a query, make sure that it is framed politely. For example, if you wish to renegotiate the price following receipt of your survey, make sure that the estate agent explains why you need a reduction, rather than simply demanding a lower price.
Getting on the right side of your sellers isn’t difficult, but it really can make the difference between getting your dream property or losing out.
If you would like to speak to one of our expert lawyers, ring us on 0333 305 5189 or email us at info@lpropertylawyers.co.uk
