Sell at the best price quickly and easily.

If someone has been living in a property that they own for a long time, the emotional connection is the most difficult aspect. Once you’ve made your decision, you need to be aware that there’s going to be a lot of work involved. Accordingly, the next thing you should consider is whether you want to do this work yourself or whether you want professional assistance. The question of price can be addressed further down the line.

When selling a property, you must collate all relevant documentation, regardless of whether you’re receiving third-party assistance. The easiest way to do this is to put together a file: receipts from any investments made within the last few years are important for the asking price and for property gains tax. In addition, banking documentation, an extract from the land register, plans, photographs and other relevant documents relating to the property should be collected in a file. An estate agent can help you with this. Based on this file, a selling price can be estimated and the sales documentation can be drawn up. Many sellers underestimate the complexity, the amount of time it takes to sell and the work involved: professional photo shoots, finding a buyer, arranging viewings, processing and negotiating the sale, and resolving financing and tax issues. All of this must be factored in when deciding whether to seek professional assistance from an estate agent.

This is generally not recommended. Adding “a lick of paint” may create an overall more positive impression. However, experience shows that this barely has any effect on the market value. You shouldn’t spend any money on renovating the kitchen or bathrooms either. There is too great a risk that the buyer won’t like the new kitchen and therefore won’t want to fork out more money for it. On the other hand, if the inhabitable space is extended or if a heat pump or solar panels are installed, this may well result in a significant increase in the estimated value.

As a seller, you can expect comprehensive support from beginning to end. The majority of the work and, in particular, the more complex tasks will be seen to for you. There are many estate agents to choose from. Look at valuations and ask around for recommendations. Make sure only to trust neutral, independent brokers and don’t just enlist the first provider you come across. Take the time you need to find the right person. Book face-to-face meetings with two or three estate agents, as you need to be sure the chemistry is right and that you trust the person. If you would like to take out a mortgage or finance your next property, you should also clarify that your chosen estate agent provides this service. Only a small number of estate agents – such as MoneyPark – also give advice on financing and tax implications.