Selling a Property: Writing Your Advert

When you are preparing to sell a property, you want to attract as many potential buyers as possible. Do this by having a very clear mental picture of who would likely buy the property and then explore all the ways you might reach people who fit the model you have identified.

One way, of course, is to advertise. Your advertising campaign must speak directly to your target market. Use terms and focus on features that are important to them. For example, if your market is professional workers, your advert should discuss time-saving and security features, along with speed and ease of maintenance. If your market is families with children, mention schools, nearby parks and leisure facilities, and safety aspects.

Be succinct and positive. Do not ramble or use unnecessary words. Assume that your potential buyer is busy and does not have time to read a long description.

Your advert should address these points:

• The type of property (house, flat, farm, or other).
• The rooms: bedrooms, bathrooms, reception rooms, and other specialist rooms such as cellars, conservatories, and so on.
• Location (mention nearby amenities if appropriate).
• Condition.
• Price.
• Your contact information (a telephone number is best; be sure it is one you usually answer because many inquirers will not bother to leave a message).

Always include a colour photograph that shows the property at its best.