Our 7 step property selling guide is designed to help and guide you through the property selling process.
- Arrange a market appraisal (property valuation)
Choosing a local Estate Agent with extensive knowledge and an understanding of the current market trends will allow you to receive the best advice.
As part of this process it is also important for you to consider your moving needs and required timescales to help set the correct asking price. Our local property valuation experts can provide you with an up to date market appraisal of your home.
Our tip: Property values can change quickly with market conditions, keep yourself updated regularly. Find out how much your property is worth by booking a free valuation with our team.
- Working out your finances
When it comes to selling and/or buying a property, there are costs to be considered before starting the marketing process. These typically include your Estate Agent, Solicitor or Conveyancer, stamp duty, survey fees, mortgage fees and removals. It is important that you consider all of these when planning and budgeting your finances, so that you can set about your move with confidence.
Our tip: Work with our experienced and fully trained estate agents who can help provide you with the information required when selling your home.
- Marketing your property
Having established the value of your property, it’s important to choose an Estate Agent that understands your moving needs in order to set the right asking price and marketing strategy to find you the best buyer. From low key marketing, photography and accompanied viewings, to ‘open house’ events, online advertising and for sale boards, our experts can help guide you.
Our tip: Buyers love a welcoming, well-lit and tidy home. See our first impressions guide for more information.
- Showcasing your property and negotiating offers
First impressions are important when attracting buyers. Presenting your home in the best possible way is something our property experts can help you with. When it comes to negotiating offers, it is important to consider all factors, not least, is the potential buyer ready, willing and able to proceed and do they understand your moving timescale and needs?
Our tip: The highest offer is not always the best offer.
- Agreeing and progressing your sale
Having accepted an offer, all parties will need to instruct a solicitor/conveyancer. At Stirling Ackroyd we have access to a select panel of conveyancing specialists that understand the level of service our clients expect and need in today’s fast paced and demanding property market. Likewise, where mortgages are required (for you or your buyer) it is important to have done your research, so that this vital part of the process does not delay matters. Our expert Mortgage & Protection Advisers are on hand to help.
Our tip: Don’t compromise on the quality of your conveyancing or mortgage expert.
- Exchange of contracts
When all the legal work has been carried out, you are ready to exchange contracts and a non-refundable deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price) is sent to your solicitor/conveyancer. Contracts can now be signed and exchanged at which point both parties are legally bound to complete the transaction. Completion dates will need to be agreed and are normally around two weeks after exchange.
Our tip: Make sure your solicitor/conveyancer and buyer know your preferred completion dates from the outset.
- Completion (moving day)
Once your solicitor/conveyancer has received the money, your sale will be completed and the buyer will be able to move in. Before handing over the keys, don’t forget to take meter readings, re-direct the post and leave any essential operating manuals or a written guide to help the new owners understand how everything works, they will appreciate the helpful gesture.
Our tip: If you have any pets, arrange to have them looked after while you move.