Guide to selling a residential property

Selling your home is a significant undertaking, but with the right guidance, the process can be straightforward and stress-free. This step-by-step guide, based on insights from expert estate agents, covers everything from pricing your property to completing the sale.

Choosing the Right Estate Agent

Research and Recommendations

Select an agent with experience selling properties similar to yours. Seek recommendations from family and friends and arrange multiple valuations before making a decision. An agent with detailed knowledge of your area, including schools, transport links, and local amenities, can better attract serious buyers. For high-value properties, consider agents with national and international exposure. Ensure your agent is a member of a redress scheme, such as the Property Ombudsman, providing legal protection and accountability.

Property Valuation

Avoid choosing an agent based solely on the highest valuation. Research recent sales in your area via portals. A realistic valuation, based on market conditions, recent sales, and property specifics, increases the likelihood of a timely sale.

Preparing Your Home for Sale

Documentation

Prepare essential documents early, including mortgage statements, insurance policies, warranties, and utility bills.

Inventory and EPC

Create an inventory of fixtures and fittings to avoid disputes, and arrange an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and floor plans, both required for marketing.

Home Presentation

First impressions are crucial. Ensure the exterior is tidy, interiors are decluttered, and consider professional staging to help buyers visualise living in your home.

Marketing Your Property

List your property on major portals, such as Rightmove and Zoopla. A strategic marketing plan, including targeted advertising and professional photography, ensures your home stands out to serious UK and international buyers. Your local Fine & Country agent will be able to do the work for you here with a robust marketing strategy.

Viewings

Buyers form opinions within seconds, so maintain a well-presented exterior. Keep rooms bright, neutral, and uncluttered. Initial viewings are best conducted by your agent, though you may attend subsequent visits to highlight local amenities.

Receiving and Evaluating Offers

Consider factors beyond price, such as buyer readiness, chain position, and financial position. Your agent can help determine which offer represents the best overall opportunity.

Completing the Sale

Conveyancing

Appoint a licensed solicitor or conveyancer accredited by the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) to manage contracts and legal obligations.

Surveys

Buyers will conduct surveys to assess property condition, which may influence the final sale price.

Exchange and Completion

Exchange: Contracts are signed, and a deposit (typically 10%) is paid.

Completion: Ownership transfers, the buyer collects keys, and sale proceeds settle any outstanding mortgages or loans.

Overseas sellers may sell UK property, but should check for financial sanctions in their country of residence.

Contact us

Speak to your local Fine & Country agent for advice on buying or selling.