Nearly 750 properties might be going under the hammer in Sydney today, but for Kevin and Sharon McCall the only one that matters is on Elizabeth Street, Zetland.
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Like other vendors, the couple are nervously waiting to see how many potential buyers turn up for the auction of their three-bedroom house.
"There are always a few butterflies and you get a bit anxious before you sell a property," said Mr McCall, a builder who has undertaken much of the work on the former banana bread factory since buying the property just over three years ago.
He will not be at the auction because of work commitments. Ms McCall, a lawyer, will be there with her mother for moral support.
"We weren't aware that it was going to be a record day for sales when we chose the date and I can't help but be a little bit nervous knowing that buyers might be a bit more spread out with so many properties available," said Mr McCall, 44. "Hopefully we'll get in early and knock it over for a good price."
Unlike many vendors, the couple do not have to sell today as they have not already bought another property this spring. They intend to rent before buying again.
So far this year 19 houses have sold in Zetland, with an average price of $902,000, according to Australian Property Monitors.
When the McCalls bought their home for $510,000 it was in a state of disrepair and was a single-storey concrete block. After major renovations, including adding a first floor with two bedrooms and a bathroom, the couple hope to attract a final bid above the local average.
Their agent Aisling Brady, of LJ Hooker, says many vendors are "keen to avoid selling in December".
"I often have conversations with vendors who want to sell before Christmas and don't want to leave it too late.
"People get nervous around Christmas, thinking things will slow down and that buyers won't be out in the market at this time. There's definitely an aspect of safety first, wanting to get in while it's still spring."
