When is the best time to sell your property?

Deciding when to sell your property in Namibia can significantly impact how quickly it sells and the price you can secure. While every property transaction is unique, trends in buyer behavior, market conditions, and even the weather can play a role in determining the optimal time to sell your home. 

More often than not summer months are usually more busy for home sellers and buyers - the reason for that can be attributed to different factors but it is vital to remember that no matter what you do, an incorrectly priced home will always struggle to sell no matter how well you you try and time the market.

Why summer is the prime selling season

In Namibia, the warmer months transform gardens and neighborhoods into vibrant, inviting spaces. Lush greenery and blooming flowers enhance curb appeal, making properties look more attractive and well-maintained. This seasonal charm sets the stage for a strong first impression, drawing in potential buyers.

Summer also aligns with key life transitions, such as the end of the school year and the festive season, prompting many families and individuals to finalize property purchases. For families, it’s an ideal time to settle into a new home before the next academic year begins. Meanwhile, those in the market for holiday homes often feel a sense of urgency, knowing this is the prime season to invest.

The combination of warm weather and longer daylight hours creates an uplifting mood among buyers. With more energy and enthusiasm, they’re more inclined to attend open houses and property viewings—significantly increasing your chances of closing a successful sale.

Challenges of selling during summer

While the warmer months are advantageous, they also come with challenges. Increased buyer activity means more competition among sellers. Properties take slightly longer to sell, averaging around 12 weeks, compared to quicker turnarounds earlier in the year. This makes pricing and presentation crucial.

Navigating a buyer’s market

Namibia’s property market currently leans towards buyers, with an oversupply of listings and fewer buyers. This dynamic means sellers must be strategic:

• Pricing matters: Overpricing can deter buyers, while competitive pricing attracts attention. Work with a skilled real estate agent to determine the right price based on market conditions and comparable sales in your area.
• Condition is key: Fix any visible defects, clean thoroughly, and consider minor upgrades to make your property stand out.

Practical tips for selling successfully

Appointing the right real estate agent to partner with is important when selling your home in a tough market, but it’s equally important for sellers to take an active role in the process as there are numerous things a homeowner can do to significantly facilitate the sale.

Find the right agent

Good agents are worth their weight in gold, but the wrong agent can just as easily scupper a deal. Interview at least two agents and don’t be won over by the highest valuation received, especially in a tough buyer’s market when the highest valuation is usually not the best valuation. Rather select an agent based on their skill sets, their local market and area knowledge, the company’s marketing ability, and their track record in your neighbourhood.

Touch up – but don’t over-upgrade

Quick fixes always pay off, but you are unlikely to see a return on investment for major makeovers just before selling. Make sure all fixtures and fittings are working, replace broken door handles, and fix leaky taps. If possible, give the interior and exterior a fresh coat of paint, but stick to a neutral palette so that the new homeowner can add their personal touch and splash of colour.

That said don’t underestimate the importance of the kitchen! It is the heart of the home and it’s the one room where you can splurge a little more when touching up - and recoup most of the money. If you have a little extra cash, buy one quality stainless steel appliance because when people see one high-end appliance, they assume all the others are also good quality. It will also update the kitchen nicely.

Professional photography

With so many properties on the market at the moment, you need to grab potential buyer’s attention and the best way to do this is with quality photographs that show your home to its best advantage. A meager selection or pictures depicting mess and clutter will ensure your home attracts very little interest.

Ask your real estate agent if they can do virtual or video tours as well as this will allow potential buyers to get a more immersive experience of your home and it will make it stand out from the rest.

Have a look at your property ads online and compare them to other similar properties in the area. Particularly examine the photos, what the lead image is, how big the rooms look, and also read the property description. If yours doesn’t stand out from the others, ask your agent to amend the advert.

Be show-ready

You never know when your buyer is going to walk through the door and it’s very possible that he or she will want to view it at short notice. Don’t leave dishes in the sink, make sure the bathrooms are always sparkling and that bedroom floors are sock- and underwear-free. Yes home viewings can be a pain, but the sooner you let prospective buyers view your home, the sooner it will sell, so be flexible.

Timing Is Everything

While summer is generally the best time to sell property in Namibia, it’s not the only factor to consider. If you’re selling in a buyer’s market, patience and preparation are essential. Ensure your property is priced right and in excellent condition to attract offers quickly.

Ultimately, the best time to sell your property depends on your personal circumstances and market dynamics. Working with a knowledgeable agent and adopting a strategic approach will position you for success, no matter the season.