What’s the first step in selling my property?

If you have decided to sell your property, the first step is to check the terms of your mortgage. You should review your mortgage agreement for any fees, penalties, and outstanding balances. You should also check fixed-rate or tracker periods and get in touch with your mortgage provider to tell them your plans and see if they have any advice on your options.

How long does it take to sell a property?

The time frame to sell a property in England depends on various factors. These include the market supply and demand, listing price, interest rates and property condition. According to Gov.uk, the average time it takes to sell a house is two to three months. However, it could be longer if you are in a buyers’ market or if there is a ‘chain’ involved.

Do I need a solicitor to help with the process, and what will they do?

You do not need to hire a solicitor to sell a house by law. However, due to the paperwork involved and legal responsibilities, most homeowners use a solicitor for the house-selling process. For example, you must obtain title deeds, prepare the sales contract, sort out your mortgage and negotiate with the buyer’s solicitor.

How do I maximise the value of my property for sale?

There are several ways you can add value to your home before selling. First, start with fixing superficial defects and redecorating rooms with neutral colours. Second, it’s vital to declutter the main rooms – kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms. Third, you should consider kerb appeal. Therefore, spruce up the garden, repaint the front door and ensure good first impressions.

Getting the right estate agents is also vital to maximise the value of your property. Not only can we advise on a competitive listing price, but we can take well-staged photographs to maximise your property’s potential.

What kinds of costs will I incur during the property sales process?

Selling a house can be expensive, and there are various fees and additional costs to consider. Here is a list of what expenses you can expect:

• Estate agent fees – 1 to 3% on the final sale price
• Conveyancing fees (solicitor) – Between £600 and £2,000
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – £60 to £120
• Removal costs – Around £1,000

Other costs could involve a mortgage exit fee and Capital Gains Tax. Additionally, if you are selling to buy a new house, you will have Stamp Duty and a house survey to pay for.

Can I withdraw my property from the market once it has been listed?

Yes, you can take your property off the market, but with one condition – you have not yet exchanged contracts.

What happens if my property is not sold after a certain period?

If your property has been on the market for several months and hasn’t sold, you have several options. First, you could consider reducing the selling price. However, if the housing market is slow, you could consider postponing the sale until things pick up. Another option is to withdraw the listing, make home improvements and then relist it.

How do you handle negotiations with potential buyers?

Our estate agents are highly trained professionals offering individually tailored service to clients. We understand buyers have tactics to make low offers. We always work in your best interests to negotiate the best price for your property.