A step-by-step guide to selling your property
Selling your property can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and support, the process becomes much smoother. Once you've decided to sell, staying organised and knowing what to expect is essential. Getting the right help from the outset will make all the difference.
At Charters, our dedicated and professional team is here to ensure your move is as smooth and successful as possible. We've put together a simple, step-by-step guide to selling your property to set you on the right path and help you understand the process of what to do at each stage.
1. Consider mortgage options
If you're selling your property and planning to buy another, it's crucial to speak to a mortgage adviser early on. They will guide you through the process and help determine what you can afford.
Having a Mortgage in Principle makes your offers more appealing to sellers and their agents, putting you in a strong position when negotiating. Once you know your budget, you can focus on properties that match your financial situation and make an offer when you find the right one.
2. Prepare your property for sale
First impressions matter! Make your property as appealing as possible by enhancing curb appeal, addressing maintenance issues, and decluttering. For a more detailed guide on preparing your home to sell, click here.
3. Choose the right Estate Agents
Your estate agent plays a crucial role in guiding you through the sale process. At Charters, our local agents are experienced, approachable, and committed to helping you every step of the way.
4. Get a valuation and set your price
It's essential to get a realistic valuation for your property. We offer three options:
Instant online valuation: Get an estimate in minutes.
Virtual valuation tool: Use technology to assess your property's value.
Face-to-face valuation: An agent visits your property to provide a more personalised assessment.
5. Appoint a conveyancing solicitor
Alongside your estate agent, you'll need a conveyancing solicitor to handle the legal aspects of your sale. While we can recommend solicitors with whom we've successfully worked before, it's important to do your own research and compare fees. Although you won't formally instruct your solicitor until you've accepted an offer, deciding early will help streamline the process.
6. Answer buyers' questions
Serious buyers will likely have questions about your property. Be prepared to complete questionnaires and provide necessary information to assist their decision-making process.
7. Accepting an offer
When an offer comes in, your estate agent is legally obligated to inform you. If you are happy with your offer, you can accept and proceed!
However, let us know if you want to negotiate, and we'll handle the discussions.
8. Exchange contracts
At this stage, both parties finalise and agree upon key details, such as:
Completion timeline: Usually between 7 to 28 days after exchanging contracts.
Fixtures and fittings: Confirm what will be included in the sale.
Negotiated adjustments: Resolve any issues arising from the buyer's survey.
The buyer pays a deposit upon exchanging contracts, and both parties are legally committed to the transaction. If either party withdraws without a valid reason, they may face legal consequences.
9. Completion
Completion marks the official transfer of ownership. On this day: You vacate the property, funds are transferred, deeds are handed over, and the buyer receives the keys.
10. Settle final payments
If you have an outstanding mortgage, your solicitor will arrange to pay it off using the sale proceeds. You'll also receive final invoices from your solicitor and estate agent. If you're buying a new property simultaneously, the solicitor can coordinate payments, including any applicable stamp duty.
Any Questions?
Selling a property can be complex, but we're here to help make the process as straightforward as possible. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to drop by one of our local branches or give us a call.