If you’re considering selling your home, particularly in today’s market, getting the positioning right from the outset has never been more important.
We spoke to Mike Collins, Group Director of Property at Cherry Godfrey, about how to approach a successful sale, what’s driving the Guernsey market right now, and the steps homeowners can take to achieve the best possible outcome.
What’s the first thing someone should do before putting their property on the market?
Speak to an estate agent - earlier than you think you need to.
A lot of people wait until they’ve already made decisions, when actually the most value comes from getting advice at the very start. We can guide on pricing, timing, presentation and even whether now is the right moment to sell.
It’s not just about listing a property - it’s about positioning it properly from day one.
How would you describe the Guernsey property market at the moment?
It’s probably one of the most common questions we’re being asked at the moment. It’s a market that’s settled into a more balanced and measured rhythm. After a period of fluctuation, we’re seeing steady levels of activity, with buyers taking a more considered approach and placing greater emphasis on value.
While stock levels are improving slightly, overall supply remains limited, particularly well-presented and appropriately positioned homes - which continues to underpin values across the market.
The rental sector also remains strong, with demand continuing to outpace supply. For landlords and investors, that presents a clear opportunity, with well-managed properties still delivering reliable returns.
At the same time, first-time buyers continue to face challenges around affordability and deposits, meaning many are taking longer to enter the market or relying on additional support.
Overall, it’s a market that rewards preparation and informed decision-making for buyers, sellers and investors alike.
What mistakes do sellers commonly make?
There’s a natural tendency to “test the market”, but in reality, the first few weeks are when your property gets the most attention. If it’s not positioned correctly from the start, you risk losing momentum.
That’s not about undervaluing a property - it’s about understanding how to present it in a way that attracts the right level of interest and ultimately achieves the best possible outcome.
The other common issue is underestimating presentation. Buyers make decisions quickly, often within minutes, so first impressions really do count.
How important is preparing your home for photos and viewings?
It’s absolutely critical.
Good photography is often what gets people through the door in the first place, so preparing your home properly is one of the simplest ways to maximise interest.
That doesn’t mean major renovations, it’s usually about the basics:
- Decluttering and creating space
- Letting in as much natural light as possible
- Taking care of small maintenance jobs
- Keeping décor neutral and tidy
You’re not trying to remove personality entirely, just allowing buyers to imagine themselves living there, rather than feeling like they’re visiting someone else’s home.
What should sellers expect from a valuation?
A good valuation is about far more than a number.
We look at comparable properties, current demand, location, condition and market trends, but just as importantly, we explain why a property is valued that way and which strategy will achieve the best result. It should feel like a conversation, not just a figure being handed over.
In coming to that figure the agent needs to understand the vendor’s brief, i.e. is a quick sale needed, or is there time to hold out for the best price even if that takes a few extra months to achieve?
Avoid being driven by what may be an overstated figure, presented to win the instruction. In doing so you risk your properly hanging around with abortive viewings and disappointment. At Cherry Godfrey Property we provide balanced no pressure advice, managing expectations and being realistic whilst remaining optimistic throughout the process.
Is now a good time to sell?
There’s rarely a perfect time - but there are always opportunities.
Right now, we’re seeing a market where motivated buyers are still very active, particularly in the mid-range. The key is being realistic and well-prepared.
Properties that are priced correctly and presented well are achieving strong outcomes.
What about buyers - particularly first-time buyers?
It’s still challenging for first-time buyers, particularly when it comes to affordability and deposits.
That said, we’re seeing people find ways onto the ladder with the right support and guidance, whether that’s through careful financial planning or family assistance.
It’s not impossible, but it does require a more considered approach than it once did.
There are a lot of moving parts in a property transaction - how can sellers best navigate that?
There are quite a few parties involved in any property transaction - estate agents, advocates, mortgage providers, insurers, and it can quickly start to feel a bit fragmented if everything is handled separately.
What we try to do is simplify that process as much as possible. Being part of Cherry Godfrey means we can support clients across the full journey, not just with the sale itself, but also with mortgages, finance and insurance.
For clients, that often makes things feel far more straightforward. Instead of juggling multiple conversations, they have one team that understands the bigger picture and can guide them through each stage.
It’s not about replacing those individual services, but about bringing them together in a way that works better for the client. Ultimately, it helps make what can be a complex process feel more manageable - and a lot less stressful.
Finally - what would your key advice be to anyone thinking of selling?
Start early, ask questions, and don’t try to do it alone.
Selling a home is a big decision and it’s not just financial, it’s emotional too. That’s why we take a hands-on approach, working with our clients every step of the way.
In many ways, we become just as invested in the outcome as they are. It’s about making sure they feel confident, informed and supported from the first conversation through to completion.
Thinking of making your next move?
Whether you’re ready to sell or simply exploring your options, the Cherry Godfrey Property team is always happy to offer honest, expert advice to help you get started.
