Selling a property doesn’t have to be a drawn-out or stressful process. With the right approach, you can secure a buyer quickly while ensuring you get a fair price. The following guide goes through the key steps to help you sell your property efficiently, combining preparation, strategic marketing, and expert tools.

Step 1: Determine Your Property’s Value

The first step in any property sale is understanding how much your home is worth. Accurately pricing your property is crucial for attracting serious buyers. Overpricing can deter interest, while underpricing risks undervaluing your biggest asset.

Start with an online tool like purple bricks valuation, which provides a fast, reliable estimate based on market trends and properties in your area. This gives you a strong foundation for setting a competitive asking price.

Step 2: Prepare Your Home for Sale

First impressions are everything. Before listing your property, take the time to make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers.

• Declutter and Clean: Clear out unnecessary items to make your space feel larger and more inviting. Deep clean every room, including less noticeable areas like baseboards and windows.
• Make Small Repairs: Fix minor issues like leaky taps, squeaky doors, or chipped paint. These small improvements can have a big impact.
• Stage Key Areas: Arrange furniture and decor to showcase your home’s best features. A cozy living room or an inviting kitchen can create a lasting impression.

Step 3: Take Advantage of Professional Marketing

The right marketing is the top way to reach the right buyers quickly. High-quality visuals and comprehensive property details will make your listing stand out.

• Hire a Professional Photographer: Eye-catching photos can draw more attention to your property online.
• Include Virtual Tours: Virtual viewings are increasingly popular, offering buyers a convenient way to explore your home from anywhere.
• Write a Compelling Description: Highlight unique selling points such as location, recent renovations, or outdoor spaces.

Step 4: List Strategically

Timing is everything when it comes to selling a property. Research the best times to list in your area, as seasonal demand can vary. For example, spring and early summer are often peak times in the housing market.

Work with an estate agent who understands your local market dynamics and can position your property effectively to attract buyers.

Step 5: Be Flexible with Viewings

Accommodating potential buyers is a key part of selling quickly. Offer flexible viewing times, such as evenings and weekends, to cater to busy schedules.

Make sure your home is always viewing-ready. Keep it clean, well lit, and ventilated so that buyers see it at its best every time they visit.

Step 6: Price Competitively and Be Open to Negotiation

A well-priced property will attract offers quickly. Use your valuation as a starting point but be prepared to adjust based on buyer feedback and the market.

When offers come in, evaluate them carefully. Consider not only the price but also the buyer’s financial position and proposed timeline. A slightly lower offer from a cash buyer, for example, may result in a faster and more straightforward transaction.

Step 7: Work with Trusted Professionals

Having the right team can make all the difference. A skilled estate agent will handle marketing, viewings, and negotiations, while a reliable conveyancer will ensure that the legal side runs smoothly. Look for professionals with strong reviews, a solid track record, and a clear understanding of your local market.

Step 8: Streamline the Legal Process

Once you accept an offer, the legal process begins. Stay proactive by preparing necessary documents in advance, such as title deeds and property certificates.

Keep open communication with your conveyancer to address any issues quickly, ensuring the sale proceeds without unnecessary delays.

Step 9: Plan Your Next Steps

While selling your current property, it’s important to prepare for your next move. Whether you’re buying a new home or renting temporarily, having a clear plan will reduce stress and help you transition smoothly.

Kenya’s trade sector which is driven by imports and exports requires proper documentation to comply with customs regulations. One of the key documents is the Customs Declaration Form (CDF) managed by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Filing this form correctly ensures smooth clearance, no delays and no penalties.

This guide will walk you through step by step on how to file a Customs Declaration Form in Kenya using the digital Kenya TradeNet System.

What is a Customs Declaration Form (CDF)?

The Customs Declaration Form is a required document for declaring the type, quantity and value of goods being imported or exported. It serves three purposes:

1. Accurate calculation and payment of taxes and duties.
2. Compliance with Kenyan trade regulations.
3. Record keeping for customs and trade audits.

Kenya has made this process digital through the Kenya TradeNet System where you can file declarations online and manage them easily.

Step by Step Guide to Filing a Customs Declaration Form

Step 1: Register on the Kenya TradeNet System

To start, create an account on the Kenya TradeNet System:

1. Go to Kenya TradeNet System website.
2. Click on Register and fill the registration form:

• Businesses input PIN and company details.
• Individuals input national ID or passport.

3. Verify your account through the email sent during registration.

Step 2: Collect the Required Documents

Make sure you have the following documents ready:

• Commercial Invoice: Description of goods being shipped.
• Packing List: Breakdown of shipment contents.
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: Proof of shipment.
• Import/Export Licenses: If applicable.
• Certificates of Origin: For specific goods.
• Proforma Invoice: For imports.

Step 3: Login and Start the Declaration

1. Login to your Kenya TradeNet account.
2. Go to Customs Declaration Module and click on Create New Declaration.
3. Select declaration type:

• Import Declaration Form (IDF) for imports.
• Export Declaration Form (EDF) for exports.

Step 4: Fill the Customs Declaration Form

Fill in your shipment details:

• Consignor and Consignee Details: Sender and recipient names and addresses.
• Goods Description: Type, quantity and value of goods.
• HS Codes: Use the Harmonized System Codes to classify your goods and determine duty rates.
• Port of Entry/Exit: Enter the customs station handling the shipment.

Tip: Use the HS Code Lookup Tool on the Kenya TradeNet System to verify.

Step 5: Attach Supporting Documents

Scan and upload clear copies of the required documents such as invoices, certificates and licenses. Make sure they are legible to avoid delays.

Step 6: Submit and Pay Duties

1. Review all details before submission.
2. Submit for KRA review.
3. Pay duties through:

• M-Pesa (Mobile money).
• Bank.
• Online payment platforms.

Step 7: Wait for Approval and Clearance

After submission:

• KRA will process the declaration.
• Once approved you will get a Release Order for the goods.
• Respond to any queries through the TradeNet portal to avoid delays.