What it takes to sell your cottage isn’t a big secret, but as with most things it’s the details that make all the difference.
First and foremost is an appropriate price, and that can be harder to determine than you might think. There are many factors at play, including how many other similar properties are currently for sale, whether or not those properties are appropriately priced, how many buyers are looking for a property in that price range, and even how the Toronto real estate market is performing. It’s important to work with an experienced brokerage that understands not just the local real estate market, but how it is impacted by these factors and how to translate them into the right price at which to list your property.
“There’s still a demand to be in Muskoka,” says John Aben, broker at Aben Team, “but buyers are being more cautious. We’ve got political turmoil, a Toronto market that isn’t performing as well as it did last year which affects a buyer’s comfort level for price points, and some sellers who are caught up in last year’s inflation—particularly in the Toronto market—which translates to higher and sometimes unreasonable expectations for the price they can list their Muskoka property for.”
What that means for you: your property has to be priced right.
“Priced appropriately, a property will sell quickly,” adds broker Mark Aben with a snap of his fingers. “We’ve had multiple offers recently on both residential and cottage properties. But buyers are smart and overpriced properties will sit on the market.”
That’s despite there being fewer properties coming to market this year which does increase demand but, again, only for properties that are appropriately priced. Unit sales are down 24 per cent for cottages this year, but of those properties that are selling the average sale price is up 9 per cent.
“We have many buyers ready and willing to purchase a cottage, but they are reluctant at the current inflated prices,” says Mark. “With our understanding of the local market, we can balance seller desires and expectations with those of potential buyers to find that sweet spot.”
Mark’s professionalism and expertise were very much appreciated. We were first-time cottage buyers and he was patient, honest and helpful with us. If any of our family and friends ever want to buy a cottage or home in Muskoka, we would be delighted to refer Mark to them.
Dave and Toni H.
55 Easy Street
55 Easy Street
But price is just one part of the puzzle. It goes almost without saying that it needs to be attractive to buyers, too. That’s why John and Mark and the Aben Team treat your property like it’s their property. They ensure it looks its best before it lists with staging services by Janice, who has 15 years of experience in the industry, and presents its best through professional photography, videography, and aerial drone footage. They are present for every showing to answer buyers’ questions, and to be sure your property is properly locked up and lights are off until the next showing or until you arrive home. You’ll get constant communication including weekly seller reports so you know exactly what’s happening with your property.
“On a weekly basis we provide the seller with a detailed report that includes how many people have viewed their property on realtor.ca, on our website and on our social media channels, as well as the active, sold and expired listings in the same range,” says John. “It’s tells them what’s going on so that they don’t feel out of touch. Having that connection with our sellers is important.”
And when your property sells, or you’ve bought a new one, take advantage of the Aben Team VIP service—one location to switch or set up your utilities, hire a mover, change the address on your driver’s license, forward your mail, and more.
Selling a home can be a stressful experience. John Aben and his team however made the process as easy as possible. From the initial valuation, thru to the final negotiations and closing, their approach was very professional and we could always count on the team for support. Their knowledge of the market together with the manner in which they treat clients makes their contribution invaluable. We would highly recommend them for any real estate transaction.
Peter & Linda V.
Aben Team recently moved their brokerage under the Harvey Kalles Real Estate banner, a decision that will benefit their Huntsville, Lake of Bays and Muskoka Lakes clients.
Harvey Kalles is the largest independently run brokerage in Toronto, and with more than 200 colleagues in that market and international exposure, Aben Team can showcase properties worldwide if appropriate. John and Mark represent their clients at offices in both Huntsville and Port Carling, allowing them to provide full service to their clients across Muskoka.
“Harvey Kalles is a family-run business that’s been around for 60 years,” says Mark. “The network of agents works really well together—we all help each other as much as possible to get greater exposure for our listings.”
103 Deerfoot Trail
103 Deerfoot Trail
“There are still a few months of good real estate activity ahead for 2018. I think we’ll finish the season strong,” says John. His educated prediction? “There will be some price adjustments from sellers looking to sell before winter and increased confidence in our Toronto (GTA) buyer as their market improves will result in a strong finish to the year.” You can see Muskoka real estate market statistics here.
Stop by the Aben Team’s new location at 13 Minerva Street East or in Port Carling at 1A Lee Valley Drive for a coffee and details on how they can help you find the right buyers for your cottage or home, or the perfect cottage or home for your needs.
You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter, or view properties for sale at muskoka-realestate.ca. And watch for featured listings from the Aben Team on Huntsville Doppler’s Real Estate page beginning September 20.
“Integrity is what you do when no one is watching.” That is what you will get with every member of the Aben Team. I have bought and sold several properties in Muskoka and rest assured you will get the best representation and hard working real estate professionals in the district. Satisfied customer.
Mary B.
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