As of 1 July, the Federal Government's Tranche 2 AML/CTF laws came into effect across Australia. Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing legislation may sound like something that belongs in a bank boardroom, but one of the many changes it brings sits much closer to home. Your agent is now required to conduct some basic due diligence on you as a seller before your property can be taken to market.

It is not a challenging exercise. It is a matter of verifying who you are and confirming your right to sell the property. But like most things in a property campaign, it is quick when done early and a source of delay when left to the last minute.

And it is far from the only task that needs attention before your property goes to market.

There is the preparation of your seller's disclosure statement. The appointment of a conveyancer. The arrangement of finance for your next move. Each one needs consideration, and each one takes time.

Then there is the property itself. Those last-minute jobs you have been putting off and the arrangement of marketing. Decisions about when your campaign will begin and when the first open will be held.

There are many boxes to tick and decisions to make before you go to market. So, who is best placed to help you through it all? Easy. The agent you choose to sell with.

I once saw a marketing campaign that listed the ten things required to get your house ready for market. Step one: hire the agent. They will then take care of the other nine.

There is a lot of truth in this.

A good agent has walked hundreds of sellers through this exact process. They know the order things need to happen in, the traps that cause delays, and the professionals worth calling. What feels like a mountain of admin to a seller is simply a well-worn checklist to the right agent.

This matters most in spring. Many people want to end their year living in their new home, which is exactly why spring is such a popular season for both buyers and sellers. So, it is best to work backwards.

Say you are hoping for a December settlement. That may mean a contract around October. A contract in October may require a campaign commencing in September. And to be ready come September, appointing an agent in August is prudent.

August is not early. August is on time.

This article has been written simply to reveal how much is required behind the scenes to get a property sold. None of it is difficult. None of it is overwhelming. But all of it is made a lot easier when you have the right agent in your corner.

At Johnson Real Estate, we believe we are that agent. So, if you want to end the year in your new home, don't wait for spring. Call us now. One conversation, and your timeframe is sorted. The spring market rewards the prepared, and preparation starts today.