There are several steps involved when selling a property, from appointing an estate agent to managing viewings and offers, conveyancing, and completion. Our guide sets out the process so you know exactly what to expect.
What to expect: Research local estate agents, compare their services and fees, and choose an agent who understands your needs and goals. Look for experience, local expertise, and a proactive approach.
Timescale: A few days to a week.
Expenses: Estate agent fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the final sale price, plus VAT.
What to expect: Your chosen estate agent will conduct a thorough valuation of your property, taking into account its condition, location, and market trends. You'll then discuss your marketing strategy, including professional photography, floor plans, and property descriptions.
Timescale: 1-2 weeks.
Expenses: Professional photography and floor plans may be included in your estate agent's fees, or they may be an additional cost.
What to expect: Your property will be listed on popular property portals (e.g., Rightmove, Zoopla) and maybe your chosen estate agent's website. Marketing efforts may also include brochures, local advertising, and social media promotion.
Timescale: Within a few days of agreeing your marketing materials.
What to expect: Potential buyers will arrange viewings through your estate agent. Your agent will accompany viewings, answer questions, and gather feedback from viewers.
Timescale: Viewings can start as soon as your property is listed, maybe even sooner (we offer potential buyers the opportunity to 'beat the portals' by signing up for bespoke email property alerts, giving them early access to our listings so they can secure an advantage when it comes to viewings).
What to expect: Interested buyers will submit offers to your estate agent. Your agent will negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best possible price and terms.
Timescale: This can vary depending on market conditions and the number of interested buyers.
What to expect: Once you accept an offer, your property is marked as 'Sold Subject to Contract' (SSTC). This means the sale is agreed in principle, but it's not legally binding until contracts are exchanged.
Timescale: Typically a few days to a week after an offer is accepted.
What to expect: This is the legal process of transferring ownership of the property. Your solicitor or conveyancer will handle all the legal paperwork, including searches, enquiries, and contract preparation.
Timescale: Conveyancing can take 8-12 weeks (or longer, depending on the complexity of the transaction). We work hard to keep you in the loop as as keep things moving.
Expenses: Solicitor/conveyancer fees, local authority searches, Land Registry fees.
What to Expect: Once all legal work is complete and both parties are satisfied, contracts are formally exchanged. This makes the sale legally binding, and a completion date is set.
Timescale: This can happen a few days or weeks after conveyancing is complete.
Expenses: You'll typically pay a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) to your solicitor at this stage.
What to expect: On completion day, the remaining balance of the purchase price is transferred, and ownership of the property is transferred to the buyer. You'll hand over the keys, and the sale is complete!
Timescale: The completion date is agreed upon during the exchange of contracts.
Navigating the selling process can seem daunting, but we're here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced team will provide expert advice, handle negotiations, and ensure a smooth and successful sale. Contact us today for a free valuation and personalised selling plan.
Heard enough already? Then invite us around for a free, no-obligation and friendly chat so we can make a start on helping you sell your property and achieve your goals.
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