Preparing to sell your house involves lots of time and attention.
It’s natural to feel nervous about this process.
But with the right preparation, things can much easier.
Here’s a checklist of things to do as you prepare to find a buyer.
1. Decide on the timing
Your first major decision is when you will sell your house.
There are many reasons to sell your house. Your hand may be forced.
For example, if your workplace is telling you to relocate. Or if you’re going through a divorce.
In other cases, you can take your time. In this case, there are better and worse times to sell.
In Spring, buyer activity tends to shoot up, creating more competitive offers. Whereas in Summer and Christmas, the market quiets down.
Don’t forget that during the busy times, removal and conveyancing costs can increase.
It’s a careful balancing act. Your personal calendar will probably make the most difference.
2. Gather all your paperwork
Paperwork is not the most exciting part of selling a house. But it’s arguably one of the most essential.
You will need:
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Proof of ID
- Title Deeds
- Electrical and gas safety certificates.
Once you’ve found a solicitor, they can guide you on whether you’ve missed anything.
3. Pick the method of selling
You need to consider what method you will use to sell your house.
Most people go straight to a high street estate agent and sell on the open market. But this is not the only option available.
Selling to a cash house buyers or via auction houses both have advantages and drawbacks.
These may be more compatible with your situation, depending on the circumstances.
When you want the highest price possible, an estate agent can make this happen.
But if your property is in terrible condition, and a mortgage isn’t possible on it, you may prefer another method.
4. Get your house in the best possible condition
You need your property to look great if you want the highest offers possible.
Decluttering is step number one. Having many items everywhere can make your house look messy and the rooms look smaller.
You should also tidy, clean and dust as much as possible. You may want to dedicate a day or two to doing this yourself. Or hire a cleaner to come in and do it for you.
Pay attention to the exterior of your house, i.e., it’s curb appeal. For example, by tidying the garden, keeping the driveway free, etc.
5. Set your price expectations
This tends to form part of a wider discussion with property experts, i.e., estate agents and valuers.
Even if you haven’t found the company to sell your house yet, it’s worth getting their feedback on this.
Your location, market conditions, and property condition are all vital details. You should research similar houses nearby to see what they’ve sold for.
You’ll need to lower your expectations if there’s problems with your house. Cash buying companies and auction bidders don’t offer as much, either.
Your selling price will also impact the house you can afford to buy next.
6. Choose your estate agent
You need a trustworthy estate agent by your side.
Ask friends and family for recommendations in your area. And check online reviews to see what past customers have said.
If speed is important to you, going with the most fully booked organisations may not always be the best idea.
You should seek out a company that best suits your needs and has in-depth local market knowledge.
7. Find a new place to move into
When you enter a property chain, selling your existing property is just one concern. You’re also thinking about moving into your new one.
You could have a range of options regarding the path forward. You must then decide which one makes sense.
For example, you could buy a new property, start renting, or move in with friends or family.
You will need to review your finances to ensure that you can afford whatever comes next. There may also be a psychological transition needed.
Especially if you’re moving to a new neighbourhood or significantly changing the size of your house.
8. Research solicitors near you
The speed your house sale moves at depends on your solicitor. So, you need to think carefully about which professional to use.
Ask friends and family for recommendations. And check online reviews. If you’ve used a solicitor before, and had a positive experience, it might be worth revisiting them.
You should also ask for guidance on their prices. This can impact the profitability of your overall house sale.
9. Speak to removal companies
Lastly, on removal day, you should be supported by a highly efficient removal company.
Look online for reviews and ask for recommendations in the local area. It gives you the best chance of success.
You should get price quotations from several organisations to determine the likely cost.
Remember that removal companies often get booked a long time in advance. Organise this as soon as you know your official moving date, and where you are moving to.
