While property markets in Sydney and Melbourne have shown a significant drop in sale prices and activity in recent months, the Hunter region remains in relatively good shape.
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James Harvey, director of Sternbeck's Real Estate in Cessnock, says both the upper and lower Hunter markets are proving robust, with no signs of slowing.
"Regardless of economic conditions, an impending election or any other circumstance, there will always be activity in the market and here in Cessnock we've seen little of the slowdown that has impacted the major cities, even as close as Newcastle," Mr Harvey began.
With a rich history in the Cessnock property industry and a team of 4 agents, all locals themselves, James Harvey is pragmatic, practical and refreshingly genuine.
"People move, up-sizing, down-sizing moving in, moving out, it's all part of regular family life and it's those exact people that we look after here at Sternbeck's.
"We are very much part of the community and see our role as taking care of our community when they have a need to buy or sell."
He doesn't buy into marketing spin and advises that vendors should apply some simple principles when looking to engage an agent to sell their home.
"Promising inflated prices, touting furfies like 'days on market' - they're all straight marketing tactics and have little to do with the end result.
"Every property is different and the outcome will vary according to many factors. The single most important consideration is to find an agent you like and trust," he commented.
While Mr Harvey understands that sellers want the best possible price for their property, he is clear that it's the 'market' itself that will set the value.
"The seller needs to accept that their property must stand out from the competition for a timely sale to occur.
"Setting the right price that is more appealing to buyers than all other properties on the market is the key.
"Sellers of course need to ensure the property is clean, tidy, clear of clutter and presented at its best but at the end of the day, the price achieved is based on what buyers are willing to pay and nothing else.
"Personal circumstances like a need to clear debt or recoup money invested have nothing to do with what the property sale will achieve.
"Our role is to keep sellers informed throughout the process, leverage our local knowledge and expertise and of course, help them achieve their goals but we do that with honesty and integrity at all times."
If you are considering selling your home, visit www.sternbecks.com.au or contact the office on 4990 7000 to discuss your needs with one of their local property experts.