Selling A Unique Home

The process of selling a unique home will by definition be a unique challenge for everyone. But a quality estate agent will step up to provide a strategy befitting the status of the home. When selling a unique home, it’s essential to understand its distinct features.

It’s fair to say that while there will be no one-size-fits-all definition of a unique home, we would all know one when we see one – or have it described to us.

What is a unique home

A unique house could possess a unique history, a striking appearance, have an architectural distinction or a connection with a celebrated owner important to a locality, nationally or even around the world. Selling such a home requires special attention.

While agents assess traditional ‘mainstream’ properties by using comparable homes in the same area. In the case of unique properties, there will be no local past examples to draw on. No history of what attracted or discouraged buyers, and no previous marketing campaigns to learn lessons from.

Yet the experienced estate agent will see this all as an opportunity, not a problem. 

They are likely to use several techniques to decide on the asking price and marketing approach. Seeking to connect the story behind the property with buyers seeking something out of the ordinary.

Identifying truly unique house features

Firstly, the agents will want to identify the truly unique features to aid in the process of selling a unique home.

For some homes, these will be physical. For example, a castle or a period house packed with original features clearly stands out to anyone viewing in person or checking an online listing.

However, a listed property boasting a ‘best in class’ design by a famous architect. Or a house which was previously home to a celebrity may need emphasising if this stand-out characteristic is not obvious.

Consider who might like to buy a unique home

Secondly, a quality agent will consider the likely purchasers of this type of property when selling a unique home.

This gives focus to the marketing material, and whether it needs advertising in specialist media beyond the portals and the agent’s own website.

For example, an equestrian property or a rural home with a classically designed garden may be perfect for an advertisement. Meanwhile, a house with a renowned local history is ideal for a press release aimed at local or regional media. It may get even better coverage if the seller is willing to speak about their own experiences in the home and be photographed.

Of course, such houses and apartments will also be listed on the property websites where well over 90% of searches begin. But a special property deserves specialist coverage too.

Asking price

The third task for an agent will be to recommend an asking price. No easy task when there is unlikely to be a comparable property from which to draw guidance. Selling a unique home involves a detailed analysis.

So, agents will typically measure the home’s space, in square feet, and analyse the asking prices of other houses or apartments of similar size. Taking into account outside space and grounds as well. The agent will then use their local expertise to factor in local market conditions. And finally add a premium for uniqueness.

What work may be required

A final area of responsibility for any agent instructed on a unique property is to advise on what work may be required. To secure the optimum sale price in the fastest time when selling a unique home.

For a highly distinctive and possibly very valuable home, this could well be specialist work. Repairing a cob wall or thatched roof, for example. A Propertymark agent can advise on finding local craftspeople if the seller isn’t already well-versed. Or put them in touch with architects and council staff to discuss, say, modernising a period property.

Realistically such work can take some time, and the number of contractors may be low because of the nature of the work. It’s therefore sensible to bring in an agent well before you anticipate actually going to market. To ensure the property is in peak condition for viewings.

The recent works can then of course add value to the property. However how much should be discussed with the agent. Whatever the scale of the work it will certainly improve the saleability of the home.

This might particularly be the case if the property is being sympathetically modernised. To embrace the convenience of modern facilities while retaining the original charm. A popular wish amongst younger buyers in particular.

Good luck with the sale of your unique home!

Last Updated: November 29th, 2024