Frequently, I am asked whether a ‘For Sale’ or ‘To Let’ sign remains relevant in a predominantly digital era.
Clients often express the following objections when initially entering the market: “Surely everyone looks on the property search sites?” “I live in a quiet street, so what’s the point?” and “I don’t want the neighbours to know I am selling.”
While these objections may seem valid at first glance, delving deeper reveals more reasons to have a board than not. Firstly, contrary to a common misconception, an advertising sign is meant to showcase the property, not the agency selling or letting it. Although we appreciate seeing our agency’s boards around town, the primary focus is to highlight available properties, giving clients the best chance of maximising inquiries.
Advertising a Property
Let’s address the three objections:
“Surely everyone looks on the property search sites?”
While it’s true that most people check search sites, many notice an advertising board before the property appears online. Additionally, a ‘For Sale’ sign is indiscriminate on price, potentially attracting inquiries from individuals searching in different price ranges online. I once sold a house at £200,000 above the buyer’s budget because they admired the property during their daily dog walks and saw the board the day it was erected. They stretched their budget considerably to make the purchase.
Buyers expect a house that is for sale to have a For Sale board outside it. A board sends a very positive message to buyers by confirming that the seller is committed.
“I live in a quiet street, so what’s the point?”
Living in a quiet street is a significant selling point, and your neighbour’s likely share that sentiment. Erecting an advertising board brings the house to the attention of other street residents who may have friends or acquaintances interested in the property and you capture the passive ”by drive market”, who may never been thinking of moving until they saw your board. Keep in mind that neighbour’s may not be frequent online users. Additionally, consider renters in the area who already appreciate the neighbourhood and may be interested in a property listed for sale. And don’t forget, buying is an emotional process, if the buyer is stressed trying to find the property without a board, this can lead to a negative start of the viewing process.
“I don’t want the neighbours to know I am selling.”
Regardless of whether you have an advertising board, neighbours will likely find out about your sale or rental. Viewings, online listings, and social media posts make it challenging to keep such information private. It’s advisable to inform your neighbours upfront, as they might even know someone interested in viewing your home.
Targeting Buyers: Advertising a Property with a ‘For Sale’ Board
Considering the above, it’s easy for sellers to talk themselves out of plonking a board at the front of their manicured front garden. However, should they really put all their eggs in the property portal basket? After all, there’s a reason why our towns and cities are still littered with boards: they just work.
A significant proportion of interested buyers are usually local people. A board therefore tells an important target market that a property is for sale. And it will be out there, working for the seller, 24/7 come rain or shine. It’s a bit of a hero when you put it like that.
Do you want to limit the buyers on your sale? If not, get ‘on board’ today…
