Selling property onlineSales tips

Avoid 'ready, willing and able buyer' clauses

Always check terms and conditions Avoid sole selling rights - even if you find a buyer privately, you'll still have to pay the agent's fees. With a sole agency agreement, though, you're tied to one agent but you can still sell privately and not be liable for any fees. Also avoid 'ready, willing and able buyer' clauses - if the agent finds a buyer, you have to pay its fees, even if you pull out of the sale
Beware Some private sales sites have been accused of acting as estate agents by the Office of Fair Trading. If the site receives or fields queries from potential buyers, passes on details, sends out property details or arranges viewings, it could be classified as an estate agent. If you sell your property through it and you also have a sole agency agreement, you'll have to pay the estate agent's commission
Accurate marketing is paramount If you're selling privately. Incorrect statements could leave you open to being sued for misrepresentation
Avoid lengthy tie-in periods Aim for around ten weeks so that you can switch agents if you want to

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