Never sold a property before? Don’t worry.
When you’re thoroughly prepared, it can make the journey much better.
Here’s a guide on how to sell your property in the UK.
1. Choose your method of selling
Quite a few ways to sell your house are available.
While using an estate agent is the most common, this might not be best for your circumstances.
An estate agent usually gets you the highest price.
Whereas a cash buying company enables you to complete the sale within one or two weeks.
An auction company is perfect when your house is derelict or filled with rubbish. But, there’s no guarantee of a great price. Cash buyers are useful in this case, as well.
And you may even choose to sell privately. If you already know someone who’ll buy it, and you don’t want to give an estate agent commission, then this is ideal.
2. Gather a few no-obligation valuations
No matter the method of selling, you can almost always get a free valuation.
Make sure to get more than one of these. You can then compare with your own research, about what ‘similar’ houses are selling for.
Some estate agents will exaggerate their valuations so you’re more likely to choose them. This doesn’t mean it’s realistic!
Honesty from your professional is far more valuable.
3. Find a professional that you can trust
In all industries, there are excellent professionals, and ones that aren’t so good. You need to decipher which one is which, so you don’t partner with the wrong company.
Check past customer reviews. And ask to speak to previous customers, if possible.
You should always meet a representative of the company in-person. And gather evidence of past house sales they’ve been involved with.
4. Make your house look as attractive as possible
Before marketing begins on your house, you need to make it look gorgeous. Stage it with warm, inviting features, while also being a ‘blank canvas’ for the viewer.
A deep clean and decluttering is a smart idea. And you should get photos completed for a brochure when the property is looking its best.
Focus on tidying the garden area and putting away clutter inside the house.
You should also be honest about problems with your property. Your estate agent can address these with viewers in a tactful way.
Hiding problems will only cause you more problems further down the line.
5. Get started on finding a place to move into
It’s difficult selling your property without a place to move into. You should give some serious thought to this.
If you already own a second house, this might not be a problem. You could also temporarily move in with a loved one, or into rented accommodation.
Other times, you’ll need to enter the property market and find a property to buy. This will put you in a property chain. You’ll need to manage this to ensure both deals complete at the same time.
6. Negotiate with buyers until you find the right deal
You shouldn’t necessarily accept the first offer you receive from a viewer. If you’re unhappy, then there’s always a chance to negotiate.
You need to find a deal that you feel comfortable with. But you’ve got to be realistic, too. Research what similar properties have sold for.
Just because a house is listed at a certain price, doesn’t mean it’ll sell for that.
Research negotiation tactics for your sale. You could agree to make certain fixes. Or you might include furniture in the sale, if your buyer wants it.
7. Instruct your solicitor
Once you’ve agreed to a price, your solicitor needs to get involved. You should find a professional who you can trust. Consider asking friends and family for recommendations.
Your solicitor will liaise with the buyer’s solicitor.
They could also help you with buying a separate property, if that’s happening at the same time. They’ll also ensure funds are transferred to the relevant parties upon completion.
8. Arrange a removal company for completion day
Once the exchange of contracts takes place, the sale is binding. Then you need to find a removal company for completion day.
They’ll take your belongings to your new residence with care and expertise.
It’s a smart idea to compare a few quotations. The further you’re travelling, the more they’re likely to charge. Budget for this so it doesn’t take you by surprise!
