In this 2 minute read, Ben, our MD explains what you need to be thinking about prior to putting your house on the market.
Step 1: Fail to prepare, prepare to fail!
The first step is making sure that your property is ready for viewings. Buyers will expect a well-maintained and tidy home that is free of clutter and mess. You should also consider doing any necessary repairs or renovations before putting your house on the market, as this could add value and attract more interest in your property. I am not talking about replacing Kitchens or Bathrooms, anything that's not going to cost lots of money like decorating etc is worth doing. Try to look at the property from a buyer’s eyes. When someone is viewing a property they are subconsciously trying to visualise themselves living in the property so make sure you de-personalise. Take down personal photos and neutralise any whacky coloured walls.
Step 2: Check the financials!
Mortgage finance & affordability of the onward purchase - This step involves looking into mortgage finance options if you plan on buying another property after selling yours, as well as researching what kind of properties fall within your budget range so that you can start planning ahead. It’s important not just to look at mortgages but also other financial costs such as solicitors' fees, stamp duty, surveys etc., so that there aren't any nasty surprises further down the line when it comes time for completion day.
Step 3: Choose an Estate Agent
Once your house is ready to go, it’s time to find an estate agency that can handle the sale of your property. Look at reviews online and speak to friends who have had experience selling their homes recently to get recommendations on which agents are worth considering. When meeting with potential agents, ask them questions about their fees, services offered and success rate when it comes to selling properties like yours in the local area – this will help ensure that you end up with someone who has plenty of knowledge and experience in the area you are selling in.
Conclusion: Putting a house on the market is no easy feat, but following these three steps can make all the difference when it comes time for viewings and negotiations with prospective buyers: prepare your property for sale; choose an experienced estate agent; and research mortgage finance options as well as affordability for onward purchase. By taking these steps now, you'll be setting yourself up for success throughout every stage of the house selling process!
If you have already had a market appraisal with us in the past and want a more up to date valuation then call us on 01244 836636.
Best Regards
Ben Roberts