While not every property owner is in a tearing hurry to sell, I knew I daren’t even start looking for a new home in the country until I had the money in the bank. This is what I did to speed up the process
Shopped around for the agents with the best reputations in my area
Chatted to a few to see who I was most comfortable with
Selected one and granted them the sole mandate
Checked out recent sales prices of comparable properties in the area
Listened to my agent’s advice regarding the asking price
Was totally honest with the agent about any hidden horrors or quirks
Fixed up what I could afford to
Cleaned up the garden and got rid of mountains of junk
Stored excess furniture so the house wasn’t cluttered
Made sure rooms and areas were clearly designated
Only had private viewings
Prayed
Accepted an asking price offer one week after putting the house on the market
Cracked open a bottle of Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel and did a happy dance