Checklist for selling your home
They say moving home is up there with one of the most stressful things to do and there are many different things to consider, particularly if you are selling a home as well as buying a new one. Here is a handy checklist of things to expect during the process:
Do you own research
The first step is important. You need to know what your current place is worth. You will want to do some research before you even approach an estate agent and look at what other properties in the area have recently sold for. You also want to take a look at what houses are currently on offer in the area and get a feel for the market. It could be that properties are desperately sought in your area so the price can go up, or it could be there is a glut on the market already, so you want to fairly price your home to sell.
Look at your finances
Knowing how much you will likely get for your property is only part of it. You also need to know where you stand financially as there will be fees and costs that will be incurred as part of buying and selling. Some of these will need to be paid upfront before you get the money for your property, so it is important to have your finances clear from the outset. Also, have a chat with a broker or your bank to get an idea of what is feasible, as this could affect where, what, and when.
Select Your Estate Agent
This is the most important. You will find you will not be short of choice of estate agents, so it is important that you appoint the person you feel most comfortable with and who will put in place the best strategy to achieve the best price for your home, whilst trusting they will provide the best customer experience. All of them will have different fees and contracts associated with buying and selling houses so when meeting them, we would recommend querying terms, all the costs associated, and the person you will be working with. With larger companies, you will not tend to deal with the first person you meet, so if they don't suggest it, you should ask if the agent can organise a team visit, so you can get to know everyone who will be dealing with one of your largest assets. You want to make sure that your property will be marketed in the right way, so look for an agent with a good track record and not necessarily the cheapest fee.
Make Your Home Look Presentable
It is important that when you are trying to sell your house, you show it off in its best light, so make sure everything is clean, tidy, and de-clutter where possible. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so make it count.
Hire a Solicitor
Your solicitor is an important person in the moving process, and you want to make sure that you get the right one. You don’t have to just take whomever the estate agents are recommending. Our advice when taking any recommendations, is to only consider the specific individual within the company and not the company itself. Like with most things, the service you will receive will vary from person to person. Do your research, we have found looking at online reviews is a good indication but look for the individual with the reviews.
Evaluate Offers Carefully
You need to read the offers carefully and judge them on the current market conditions and your circumstances. Consider any timescales, their financial situation, and chain position alongside the offer amount. If it allows you to move, then it could be something worth considering. The agent should be able to guide you in the right direction and offer a recommendation.
