A step-by-step guide to selling a property.
Selling a home involves several important stages. This guide to selling a property explains what to expect, from preparing for viewings and considering offers to exchanging contracts and completing your move.
Tackle minor repairs, clear clutter, and present your home at its best. You will usually need a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before marketing your property.
An up-to-date property valuation is a useful starting point. Speak to your local Gibbs Gillespie team for an assessment informed by your home and the current market.
Choose an agent with relevant local experience and a clear marketing plan. Instruct a conveyancing solicitor early so they can prepare for the legal work once you accept an offer.
Keep rooms clean, tidy and welcoming. Make it easy for buyers to see the space and imagine living there, and tell your agent about features that make the property special.
Your agent will pass on offers and help you assess more than the price alone. Consider each buyer's circumstances, financing, chain position and proposed timescale.
Once you accept an offer, the conveyancing process begins. The buyer may arrange a mortgage valuation and survey, while both solicitors work towards exchanging contracts.
Simple preparation can help buyers focus on the space and imagine themselves living there.
In England and Wales, exchange of contracts normally makes the sale legally binding. Your solicitor will explain the deposit arrangements, completion date and consequences of withdrawing after exchange.
On the agreed completion date, the remaining purchase money is transferred, and ownership changes hands. You will need to leave the property vacant and hand over the keys as arranged.
Start with an up-to-date valuation and a conversation with your local Gibbs Gillespie team.
Completion of a property sale is often hectic and demanding, especially if you’re in a chain. So don’t forget to take a step back and congratulate yourself on a successful sale.
The main stages are valuation, preparation, marketing, viewings, offers, conveyancing, exchange and completion.
Most homes need a valid EPC when marketed, although exemptions apply.
It is sensible to appoint a conveyancing solicitor early so that the legal process can begin promptly.
In England and Wales, an accepted offer is generally not legally binding until contracts are exchanged.
Timescales vary with the market, buyer circumstances, property chain and legal work. Your agent can discuss what to expect.
Whether you need a valuation or want to speak to our team, we’re here to help.