Selling a home can feel unfamiliar, as most of us only move every 15 to 20 years. This property selling guide takes you through the main stages, from preparing your finances to the day you hand over the keys.
Ready to start? See why sellers choose Aura Estates, or read about our selling fees and services.
Work out how much you still owe on your mortgage, including any early repayment charge, and budget for the costs of selling: agent and legal fees, an EPC, Land Registry fees and removals.
Next, collect your title documents, gas and electrical safety certificates, and certificates and guarantees for windows and building work. You will also need photo ID and proof of address for the identity checks that are required by law.
Then improve kerb appeal, fix small snags, and tidy and declutter. Also check that your EPC is still valid, and tell us about anything that could matter to a buyer, such as flooding. Never cover up defects.
After that, research similar local properties and ask more than one agent for a valuation, with evidence. However, a valuation is not a guaranteed sale price, so aim for a price that buyers will actually pay.
Once you have a price, compare fees, contract terms and reviews. Check whether you would pay if the property does not sell, and what happens if you want to change agent. Also get more than one quote from a conveyancer.
When viewings begin, keep your home clean, tidy and welcoming, and make sure viewers can see the garden, loft or garage. Afterwards, ask for feedback so that you can adjust your price or presentation.
As offers arrive, you must be told about every one. Compare the price, the buyer’s position (cash or mortgage, and any chain) and the completion date. However, until contracts are exchanged, neither side is legally bound.
Finally, at exchange the sale becomes legally binding. On completion day the money is transferred, you hand over the keys and your solicitor pays off your mortgage and fees. Meanwhile, keep paying your mortgage until then.
Some sales need extra care. Please speak to us early if any of these apply to you.
Criminals sometimes send emails claiming that your solicitor’s bank details have changed. Always check any change by phone, using a number you already know, before you send any money. You can also sign up for HM Land Registry’s free Property Alert service to be told about changes to your title.
This property selling guide is based on the UK Government’s “How to Sell” guide for England and Wales (2019 edition), published on GOV.UK. It is general information, not legal or financial advice. Please check GOV.UK for the latest version.
Speak to one of our local agents and arrange your free valuation.
