Planning to sell a house

Published on May 18, 2025

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Step 1: Decide How to Sell

Option A: Use an Estate Agent (Belfort Properties Agents) (

  • Wider marketing (Belfort Properties,).
  • Handles negotiations, paperwork, and buyer vetting.
  • Faster sales in competitive areas.
  • Commission (typically 5–7% + VAT).

Option B: Sell Privately (For Experienced Sellers)

  • No agent fees.
  • Full control over pricing and marketing.
  • Time-consuming (must handle buyer queries, paperwork).
  • Risk of underpricing or legal mistakes.

Option C: Auction (For Quick Sale or Distressed Properties)

  • Fast sale (4–6 weeks).
  • No bond approval delays (cash buyers).
  • May sell below market value.
  • Upfront auctioneer costs.

Step 2: Price Your Home Correctly

Get a Professional Valuation:

  • Ask Belfort Properties Agents for a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).
  • Check recent sales through Belfort Properties Agents
  • Location (security, schools, amenities).
  • Condition (renovated vs. fixer-upper).
  • Load-shedding solutions (solar, inverter, generator).

Step 3: Prepare Legal and Compliance Documents

  • Rates Clearance Certificate (Proves council bills are paid).
  • Title Deed (Proves ownership).
  • Occupational Certificate (If you made structural changes).

Step 4: Fix and Stage Your Home

Low-Cost Upgrades That Boost Value:

  • Repair: Leaks, cracks, broken tiles, faulty lights.
  • Paint: Neutral colors (whites, greys) appeal to more buyers.
  • Declutter and Depersonalize: Remove family photos, excess furniture.
  • Curb Appeal: Mow lawn, trim hedges, clean driveway.
  • Security: Highlight alarms, beams, electric fencing.

Step 5: Market Your Property

  • They’ll list on Belfort Properties Website, social media.
  • Arrange show days and virtual tours.
  • High-Quality Photos: Use a professional photographer. Show key selling points (kitchen, garden, security).
  • Virtual Tours: Help remote buyers view the home.

Step 6: Negotiate and Accept an Offer

Check Buyer’s Readiness:

  • Cash buyer = Fastest.
  • Bond-approved buyer = More secure than “pending approval.”

Sign Offer to Purchase (OTP):

Must include:

  • Purchase price.
  • Occupation date (when buyer moves in).
  • Contingencies (bond approval, inspection).

Step 7: Transfer and Final Steps

  • Conveyancing Attorney (Appointed by buyer) handles transfer.
  • Bond Cancellation (If you have a mortgage, notify your bank).
  • Council Rates Clearance (Proves no outstanding bills).
  • Deeds Office Registration (Takes 2–12 weeks).
  • Handover keys once payment clears.

Common Pitfalls in Botswana

  • Slow Deeds Office (Delays up to 3 months).
  • Buyer’s Bond Rejection (5–20% of applications fail).
  • Hidden Defects (If undisclosed, you could be sued later).

Tips for a Faster, More Profitable Sale

  • Stage your home (Neutral, clean, bright).
  • Be flexible with viewings (Weekends and evenings).
  • Offer a warranty (Covers appliances for 6–12 months).
  • Consider seller financing (If market is slow).
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