Selling your property quickly: the 5 key steps according to Thibault Cooremans

Do you want to sell your property quickly and at the best price? In a constantly evolving market, a well-thought-out strategy makes all the difference. Thibault Cooremans, real estate expert at Trevi, shares 5 essential steps to optimize your sale and attract buyers from the very first weeks.
Whether you own a house, an apartment, or a rental investment, these tips will help you maximize your visibility, generate excitement, and close the sale as quickly as possible.

1. Price your property right: the key to appealing from the start

Setting the right price is the first, and most crucial, step to selling quickly. A price that is too high can discourage buyers, while a price that is too low leaves money on the table.

How to properly value your property?

Analyse the local market: Check the prices of similar properties recently sold in your neighbourhood.
Consider the specifics: Location, condition of the property, amenities, etc.
Avoid common mistakes:
- Overpricing due to emotional attachment.
- Under-pricing due to haste.

Thibault’s tip: “A well-positioned property sells 30% faster. Thorough market research and a competitive price from the outset attract more visitors and generate offers more quickly.“

2. A good EPC rating: a major advantage for buyers

The EPC (Energy Performance of Buildings) rating has become a key selection criterion for buyers. A poor rating can hinder the sale, or even lower the price. Unless the initial price takes into account the poor EPC rating and therefore the necessary renovations.

Why does the EPC rating matter?

Impact on price: A property with a good EPC rating (A, B, or C) sells for up to 10% more.
Access to loans: Some banks refuse or limit loans for poorly rated properties.
Attractiveness: Buyers are looking for energy-efficient homes.

How to improve your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating?

Minor improvements: Insulation, window replacement, installation of a high-efficiency boiler, etc.
Conduct an energy audit before listing to identify areas for improvement.

Thibault’s tip: “If your EPC rating is poor, but you still want to sell, sell it as is, factoring in the cost of energy-efficient renovations in your asking price. This will save you time and money during the sales process.“

3. Have all the necessary documents ready before listing

Selling real estate involves a lot of paperwork. Gathering documents in advance avoids delays and reassures buyers.
List of essential documents:

Property title
Planning and zoning information
Soil certificate
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Mandatory diagnostics (asbestos, lead, electricity, gas, etc.)
Condominium regulations (if applicable)
Proof of work carried out (invoices, permits)
Article 3.94 certificate (for condominiums)
Registered letter(s) to send to the tenant(s)

Note: “An incomplete file can scare away serious buyers. Prepare everything in advance to speed up the process.”

4. Increase your presence on various platforms: websites, databases, etc.

Showcase the property: bright photos, tasteful decor, etc.

A good presentation sells! Buyers form a first impression in seconds from online photos.

How to enhance your property?

Professional photography:

Use a high-quality camera or hire a professional real estate photographer. Focus on natural light and wide angles. Avoid backlit or overly dark photos.

Home Staging:

Declutter and organize the spaces. Opt for neutral and modern decor. Add warm touches (plants, candles, etc.).

Virtual tour (Optional but effective):

A video or 3D tour can attract more people.
Thibault’s Tip: “90% of buyers start their search online. High-quality photos increase the chances of viewings by 40%.”

5. Organizing viewings: creating excitement and avoiding wasted time

Poorly organized viewings can discourage buyers and slow down the sale. Here’s how to optimize this step.

Strategies for effective viewings

Group viewings:

Schedule fixed time slots (e.g., Saturday afternoon) to attract more people at once.
Create a sense of urgency (“Several viewings planned this weekend”).
Limit the duration (30 minutes max) to avoid buyer fatigue.
Prepare a fact sheet to distribute.

Highlighting the property’s strengths:

Highlight the property’s key features (view, proximity to public transport, etc.).
Answer questions promptly and transparently.
Be fully aware of any planned or anticipated renovations in the building. Carefully review the minutes of the last General Meeting (condominium association meeting) and understand the details of the maintenance fees.

To avoid:

Unannounced visits.
Unanswered questions.
A property that is poorly maintained or presented during viewings.

Thibault’s tip: “Well-organized viewings can cut the selling time in half. Be available and responsive!”

6. Create a climate of trust and serenity in the transaction

Avoid late-stage discussions on unforeseen points: a key factor in stabilizing the price

When a purchase offer is signed, it constitutes a formal commitment between the parties, defining the essential conditions of the transaction (price, payment terms, deadlines, etc.). Introducing discussions on elements not mentioned in this initial document can:

Destabilize the transaction by calling into question agreements already established.
Create tension between the buyer and the seller, or even lead to last-minute negotiations.
Lead to a price reduction if the buyer uses these new elements as leverage to renegotiate.

Thibault’s advice: “Clear communication from the initial offer is crucial. Remember to list the important elements in the offer, specify your expectations, and don’t hesitate to use appendices if necessary.”

7. Conclusion: Your property is ready to be sold quickly !

Selling a property quickly requires careful planning. By following these 5 key steps, you maximize your chances of finding a motivated buyer in record time:

Set the right price (market research + competitive analysis).
Improve your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating (targeted investments if necessary).
Prepare all documents in advance.
Showcase your property (professional photos, home staging).
Organize effective viewings (group or back-to-back).

Need personalized support ?
At Trevi, we help homeowners sell their property quickly and at the best price. Contact our experts for a free valuation and tailored advice !
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