1. Be as sale ready as possible

The majority of sellers will be in a string (i.e. looking to purchase property also) and this can decelerate the sale process itself. You can be certain that if you are ready to take action by being prepared to buy, you’ll be in a far better position to change homes when you receive a sure sale. Being sale ready encompasses things like consulting with your mortgage adviser, enlisting the services of a solicitor beforehand, and having all your docs well organized amongst other things. And with an industry trend whereby 30% of sales don’t go through as expected, it is integral that you organize yourself and minimize the duration prospective buyers have to change their minds.

WHAT ABOUT THE LEGAL CHARGES FOR SELLING MY HOME?

Before finishing the sale, there will be expenditures to take into account. If you’ve not planned out yourself, things can get overwhelming for you, hence you’ll need to take into account factors such as your surveyor, legal costs, the mortgage application fees, and your EPC – not forgetting having the plan to make those outstanding mortgage fees when you’ve moved in. If you’re offloading your house fast, it’s integral that you prepare. When selling your house you will need to get a good property photographer.

2. Anticipate what info your solicitor may require

Don’t know the certificates you require to offload your home? Any door and window certificates, building regulations certificates, boiler warranties, the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) info along with any legal docs – will hasten the selling process. You’ll have to make sure that you’ve got an in-effect Energy Performance Certificate (or commission one) to advertise your place, to begin with; check whether your realtor provides this as part of their package of services rendered.

3. Make first impressions matter

When buyers visit your premises, it will take them a couple of minutes before they decide if they like your property or not. It’s a known fact that how your property appears from the exterior (kerb appeal) plays a significant role in influencing the first impression. Give the front entrance door a fresh coat of paint or spruce up the front garden, so that when potential buyers approach your place from the road, they get a good first impression.

4. De-personalise your house

You may not think that this action will assist offload your home fast, but potential buyers will want to think of your house as their own. Having your house filled with clutter and containing too many personal things all over can dissuade them from pulling the trigger on the purchase. Ensure that you de-clutter and take out those knick-knacks that make your house appear like “you” in storage. This will allow buyers to envisage their print on the property.

5. Take out your toolbox

Keeping sections of your house that increase value to the property, for instance, the bathroom or kitchen, in working order, can raise the appeal of your house. Regardless if it’s applying a fresh coat of paint, fixing that wonky shelf, or new kitchen equipment, it is integral that you keep these sections of your house in good standing before you put your house on the market.

6. Select a well-established realtor

Make sure to review your local ‘sold’ boards — this is often a positive sign of which realtors are performing well in your locale. Receive valuations from various relators, and make sure to enquire regarding the nitty-gritty of their advertising activities; what channels will they use to advertise your property and reach more people?