Property Checker

Sell My House

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You can use this service to find information about your property which is useful for selling your house.

Selling Your House

To sell your property, you’ll need to complete the steps below:

  • Check your property has a valid EPC
  • List it for sale
  • Arrange viewings
  • Negotiate and accept an offer
  • Instruct a solicitor to handle the conveyancing process
  • Exchange contracts
  • Complete the sale

The first step might be to contact an estate agent and get a valuation to get the process moving forward. They will be able to guide you through the process if you are unsure where to start.

Exchange of Contracts

Exchange of contracts happens after you have accepted an offer, the buyer’s solicitors are satisfied that all of their queries have been answered, and the required legal paperwork has been completed.

At this time, a completion date will be agreed, along with any other terms (such as repairs to be carried out before completion).

Before exchange of contracts, either you or the buyer can pull out for any reason. After this time, there are likely to be significant penalties if either one of you is unable to complete the sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to sell my house?

When selling your house, the main costs involved are:

Estate agent fees: Around 1%-3% of the sale price
Conveyancing: On average around £1,500
Moving fees: £1,000 - £2,000 depending on your requirements

It’s also important to plan for any additional costs for things like cleaning and making the property more presentable before selling, minor repairs and any other unexpected bills that could arise during this time. There will also be additional fees to pay if you are also buying a new property at the same time, such as solicitor fees and stamp duty on your purchase.

Can I sell my house without an estate agent?

It’s definitely possible to sell your house without the help of an estate agent.

You could consider a service like Purple Bricks, which allows you to list your home on services like Rightmove and Zoopla.

There are also other websites, specifically aimed at sellers who want to sell their property on their own. You could also take advantage of social media to share your property and generate interest.

It’s important to be aware that you’ll have to take care of advertising, viewings and negotiating directly if you choose this route, so it’s worth weighing up the work involved with the agent’s costs to decide which is the best route for you.

Can I sell my house without a solicitor?

Although it’s possible to sell your home without the help of a conveyancer, it’s not usually recommended due to the knowledge and experience needed to process the sale of a property.

Should you choose to do it yourself, you’d need to take care of all of the legal paperwork with HM Land Registry, responding to queries from buyers and any other complications that may arise.

Unless the sale is very straightforward, it’s possible that it could cause long delays in the sale process if you aren’t able to resolve any issues yourself.

Can I sell my house for free?

It’s definitely possible to reduce your costs when selling, but it’s highly unlikely that you’ll be able to complete the process without costs somewhere along the line.

To reduce your costs, you could consider:

  • Selling without an Estate Agent
  • Taking care of the removal process yourself

We wouldn’t recommend:

  • Completing the legal work without the help of a solicitor

Do I need a survey to sell my house?

There is no requirement to get a survey completed if you plan to sell your home.

Once you have accepted an offer from a potential buyer, they may choose to arrange a survey prior to exchange of contracts, however this isn’t always strictly necessary either.

A potential buyer may be required to arrange a survey for their mortgage lender, or may choose to complete one for their own peace of mind. A survey will help to highlight any potential issues with the property such as structural defects or future repairs that may be required.

How to Increase Your Chances of Selling Your Property in the UK

Selling your property can be a daunting task, especially in a competitive UK market. With the right strategy and attention to detail, however, you can increase your chances of getting a good offer quickly. Below are some practical steps to make your home stand out to potential buyers.


Set the Right Price

Pricing your property correctly is crucial. Overpricing can deter buyers and cause your property to sit on the market, making it appear less desirable over time. On the other hand, underpricing could result in a quick sale but leave you short on returns.

To find the right balance, research similar properties in your area that have recently sold, and consult with local estate agents. They can provide a valuation based on market trends and the condition of your home. Many sellers also opt for an independent valuation for a more neutral perspective.


Boost Your Property’s Kerb Appeal

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see. A well-maintained garden, clean windows, and a freshly painted front door can make a significant difference. Even simple touches, like placing plants by the entrance or installing modern outdoor lighting, can create an inviting feel.

The goal is to make the outside of your home look as attractive as possible, encouraging buyers to view the inside. Remember, kerb appeal is a buyer's first impression – get it right!


Declutter and Depersonalise

When buyers view your property, they need to envision themselves living there. To help this process, remove personal items like family photos, memorabilia, and anything overly specific to your tastes. Decluttering your space will make rooms look larger, brighter, and more inviting.


Stage Your Home for Viewings

Proper staging can help potential buyers visualise the space as their future home. You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve this. Simple touches like fresh flowers, clean linens, and neutral artwork can give your property a more polished look.

Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathroom, as these are two of the most important rooms for buyers. Ensure that both are clean, functional, and free from clutter. Small upgrades, such as new handles on kitchen cupboards or a fresh coat of paint, can make a big difference.


Highlight Energy Efficiency

With energy costs on the rise, buyers are increasingly prioritising properties with high energy efficiency. If your property has double-glazed windows, an efficient boiler, or a good EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, make sure to highlight these features in your listing. You may even want to consider smaller upgrades, like installing a smart thermostat or LED lighting, to appeal to energy-conscious buyers.


Use High-Quality Photos and Virtual Tours

In today’s digital age, many buyers begin their search online. High-quality photographs and virtual tours are essential to showcase your property at its best. Hiring a professional photographer who understands property staging can significantly boost interest in your listing.

In addition, offering a virtual tour can help attract remote buyers or those looking to minimise in-person viewings. This extra step can make your property more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.


Be Flexible with Viewings

To maximise your chances of selling quickly, it’s important to accommodate potential buyers’ schedules. Offering evening and weekend viewings, as well as allowing short-notice appointments, can make it easier for more people to see your home. The more flexibility you provide, the more interest you’ll generate, leading to a higher chance of receiving offers.


Work with a Reputable Estate Agent

Choosing the right estate agent is crucial for selling your property. Look for an agent with a proven track record in your area, good communication skills, and a solid marketing strategy. They should offer a tailored plan to promote your property across various platforms and provide guidance throughout the selling process.


Conclusion

Selling your property in the UK can be a smooth and successful process if you prepare wisely. By setting the right price, improving kerb appeal, staging the home effectively, and working with a trusted estate agent, you can increase your chances of getting a great offer. A little extra effort and attention to detail will help your home stand out and attract the right buyers.