Selling preparation guide

Ensuring exceptional exposure, presentation, and service from start to finish

Premium Property Representation

When you choose Focus Properties as your exclusive listing agent, your property is represented directly by the principals of our company, not passed on to junior staff. This ensures your listing receives the highest level of attention and experience. Our international reach gives your property exposure to qualified buyers locally and abroad, and we are available and responsive 24/7 to handle all inquiries and expressions of interest.

As your exclusive agent, we invest in producing a professional, high-quality presentation of your property. This includes standout photography and videography, strategically promoted on both local and international real estate portals.

Pricing

One of the most important factors in achieving a successful sale is pricing the property realistically for current market conditions. Irrespective of the market conditions at the time, property prices must align with the market value. Overpriced properties tend to sit unsold, creating negative perceptions and lost opportunity.

This is where our expertise in property appraisal is invaluable. We assess your property based on real-time market trends, comparable sales, and your timeline expectations, helping you price your home competitively and strategically.

We also encourage sellers to calculate the taxes due on the sale in advance, so you understand exactly how much you’ll retain after closing and can plan accordingly.

Preparing to Sell

Before listing your property, consider your post-sale plans.

Have you determined where you’ll move once the property sells?
Will the proceeds from the sale be sufficient to fund your next purchase or lifestyle change?

These are important questions to answer early, as they can influence your pricing and timing decisions.

If any discrepancies or arrears exist, it’s better to discover them early, buyers’ legal teams will uncover them during due diligence, and outstanding amounts will typically be deducted from your proceeds at closing.

Presentation Tips

Presentation can make all the difference. Here’s how to prepare your property for market:

Remove personal items like family photos, religious symbols, or political memorabilia. Buyers should be able to imagine themselves living in the space.
Declutter as much as possible to create a clean, open feel.
Ensure the property is well prepared for showings. Tidy rooms, clean bathrooms and kitchen areas, neat and tidy garden and surrounding areas, will make all the difference.
Ensure all property documentation is ready and up to date.
Have your escribano or architect confirm that public records match your deed, including any additions or renovations.
Verify that all constructions conform to local regulations and that any applicable taxes or municipal fees have been paid.

Showings & Offers

When a showing is scheduled, let your agent handle the presentation. While it’s natural for owners to want to share details, too much information can be overwhelming, or even inadvertently raise concerns. A good property sells itself, and your agent knows how to present it effectively.

Finally, remember the old real estate adage: “The first offer is often the best offer.” While not always the case, it’s worth serious consideration. Work with your agent to assess any offer, and don’t be discouraged by negotiations. The right guidance can help you navigate counteroffers and reach a successful outcome.