It’s almost the end of the year, and it’s naturally a time when we start to make plans for the year ahead. For some people, this might include moving home to gain more space, downsize, be nearer work, or closer to family or friends. Whatever your reason for selling, the whole process can sometimes be rather daunting.
However, it doesn’t need to be if you put in some preparation and make sure that all of your ducks are in a row. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your house doesn’t sit on the market for too long and you can have the best chance of snapping up the home of your dreams.
Choose the right estate agent
Whether you are in Harrogate or Hackney, the right estate agent will be invaluable. Look for a well-established agent with a great knowledge of the local area, who will be able to sell the location as well as the property. Ask what experience they have of selling similar properties, and how flexible they will be about conducting viewings, such as at times that fit in with you.
Wait to sell before you offer on other properties
If you are buying as well as selling, then the process will be easier if you get a firm offer in place on your property first. This means that the vendor of properties you are interested in will be more likely to accept your offer, and the wheels can be set in motion without any frustrating hold ups that may mean you lose out on a place you had set your heart on.
Ask the vendor to take the home off the market
If you do have an offer accepted on your dream home, get the vendor to take it off the market straight away, so they are not tempted to accept a higher offer that comes along. If you for some reason can’t find the right property, then consider moving into temporary accommodation rather than risk losing your sale.
Present your home well
Kerb appeal matters, particularly in the digital era when viewers will look up the property online before deciding whether to view. Simple steps such as tidying the front garden, making minor repairs such as fixing broken fences, sweeping the paths and cleaning the windows will help.
The interior of the house should be as clean and tidy as possible. Have a decluttering session and make sure that the house smells fresh and appealing, and if it is winter, turn the heating on when a viewing is due.
Get an energy performance certificate
It is a legal requirement to have an energy performance certificate when you sell. They are valid for ten years, so if you bought the house within this timeframe you should already have one.
