Are you excited about moving to a new place, maybe one with more room or a scenic coastal view? If yes, then it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Our straightforward guide will lead you through the selling process, covering everything from choosing a real estate agent and pricing your home to preparing it for sale. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Home Valuation Estimate
Begin by getting an estimated value of your home by simply typing in your postcode for an instant figure. This will show you your home’s value trends and recent nearby sales. Keep updated monthly via alert settings or by tracking properties in your MyRightmove account.
2. Schedule a Property Valuation
Once you’re set to list your home, arrange a complimentary property valuation with a local agent. This in-person assessment will take into account the home’s condition, size, and local area nuances. Such valuations include any upgrades you’ve made and help you budget for your next purchase.
3. Mortgage Details Review
Understand your financial situation by reviewing your mortgage. Inform your lender about your intent to sell and discuss your mortgage options. There may be fees for ending the mortgage early, which should be factored into your financial plans.
4. Selecting a Trustworthy Estate Agent
Select an agent whom you trust for their expertise and rapport, not just their fees. Marion Currie from Galbraith estate agents suggests an agent familiar with recent sales in your area, as they’ll have a ready list of potential buyers.
5. Ready Your Home for Buyers
Preparing your home can make a significant impact. It should be inviting and provide a blank slate for buyers to picture themselves living there. Christopher Scott from Hamptons advises focusing on first impressions, curb appeal, de-cluttering, and possibly upgrading broadband speeds to appeal to those working from home.
6. Set an Appropriate Asking Price
Work with your agent to set a realistic asking price, considering recent sales of similar homes and the agent’s expertise. James Hyman of Cluttons emphasizes the importance of pricing to attract viewings and offers.
7. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
You must provide an EPC within a week of marketing your property. An EPC outlines your property’s energy use, and you can check if yours is still valid online, depending on your property’s location in the UK.
8. Engage a Solicitor
Secure a solicitor early who will oversee the conveyancing process. Go for recommendations from your agent or people you trust. They’ll need various pieces of information, so gather important documents like title deeds and boiler service records ahead of time.
9. Accepting Offers
Remain flexible and prompt when responding to offers to help keep the sale on schedule. Maintain regular communication with your solicitor and agent, suggests Christopher Scott, to ensure everyone understands the timeline and required actions.
10. Contract Exchange
The exchange of contracts legally binds the sale in England and Wales, with a similar stage occurring earlier in Scotland. Prep for the completion by understanding the financial statement and ensuring deeds are signed for ownership transfer.
11. Move Out Plans
Use the exchange to completion interval to finalize moving plans. Handle logistics like home insurance cancellation and reading utility meters before departure.
12. Completion and Moving Day
On the day of completion, funds transfer, and you hand over your house to the new owner. Leave your house tidy and fully functional with all agreed-upon inclusions for the new owner.
