How to sell a house 8 tips for house sellers
By being a 'good seller' you can ensure the sale process is as smooth as possible
Many home sellers believe the problems they face in the process of selling their home are usually caused by others. If you want to be an effective seller, there are a few points to bear in mind.
1. Get your home ready
Make sure your property is clean, tidy and clutter-free, with ‘kerb appeal’. Consider getting a survey done on your property so you can either fix any problems or use it to show buyers how good the condition of your house is.
If you are selling privately, create an information pack with property details plus facts and leaflets about local amenities including leisure facilities, transport and schools and take high-quality photos of your house that capture all its best features.
Also, try out your sales pitch on friends and family and/or ask their advice. Avoid too many obvious statements when you are showing viewers around, such as ‘here is the sitting room' and try 'we love watching the sunset from this room' instead.
2. Decide on your house price
Set a realistic asking price by researching similar properties for sale. See the page of this guide on your house price for more.
In a slow market, use price points or offers to attract buyers. For example, if your property is priced at £265,000, offer to pay the additional 2% stamp duty, or make sure that your property is the best value for its kind in your location.
Consider accepting a low offer if it allows you to move into your next home or, if you are having trouble selling, buying a new home from a developer offering to part-exchange it for yours.
3. Pick a good buyer
If several prospective buyers are interested in your home, pick the one who’s most likely to see the process through, not necessarily the one who makes the highest offer.
In order, the safest buyers to choose are buyers who’ve already sold their house, first-time buyers, buyers who have sold their home subject to contract and buyers who have not sold their home.
If you are selling privately, find out whether viewers are serious by asking them whether they have sold their property, why they are buying a home and what else have they viewed.
4. Be clear what’s included in the price
Make sure you agree exactly on what’s included in the price you’ve negotiated with the buyer. This means things like fixtures and fittings.
5. Agree a completion date
Establish a likely completion date that suits both parties. This will avoid arguments further down the line.
6. Get it in writing
Although not legally binding, it’s a good idea to draw up an agreed note of the arrangement with the buyer. This will record your intentions on matters such as finance and date of completion.
7. Choose a conveyancer
Conveyancing is the legal paperwork to transfer the home to or from your name. Use a recommended solicitor or licensed conveyancer. Which? members can find one by visiting Which? Local. If you’re using a solicitor, make sure they’re a specialist conveyancer and have a good reputation for moving quickly.
8. Keep in touch
Keep communication going. Don't disappear on holiday for two weeks without informing all interested parties, such as your estate agent. Don’t ignore aspects in letters about the purchase that you don’t understand. Raise any queries you have immediately.