10 questions every seller wants answered

Home buying comes with a number of different questions that you want answering yet there is no reason why home sellers won’t also have unanswered thoughts running around their head. Whilst the selling and buying of homes are completely unique processes, with a little preparation both can be stress and hassle-free.

When is the best time to sell my house?

Everyone wants to know the answer to this question but no one has the answer. Reports suggest that spring is the preferred time yet the truth is that people buy houses in spring, summer, autumn and winter. Only you can decide when the best time to sell is based on your financial and personal situation.

How is the market right now?

Once again, this question is common in the property industry. Instead of looking at the market as a whole look at the local market. Take into consideration how much similar properties sold for and how long they were on the market for. Even though negative stories regarding the UK property market may be fluent in the news, at the end of the day, people are always going to want houses.

How should I prepare my home for a sale?

First impressions are huge so make it a good one. Consider what buyers may think when they drive up to your property. Is it attractive, clean, welcoming and well-maintained? Kerb appeal is what brings potential buyers in and sets your home apart from the competition.

Once inside, your property should be clean and a bunch of flowers and a scented candle will make all the difference. Repair any problems and take down anything that largely relates to your family or political/religious stance. You want to allow buyers to envision their own family inside.

What should and shouldn’t I tell potential buyers?

It’s important to let a potential buyer know of any defects. The old saying ‘treat people how you would want to be treated’ applies. If you are aware of any problems then it’s best to try and get these fixed before putting your property up for sale or negotiate the price to include the cost to fix them.

How much is my property worth?

This question is one that every seller wants answered but one that cannot be answered with a general response. However there are a number of ways to ensure that your property is worth the higher spectrum including bathroom and kitchen renovations. Take a look at the local market to see how much similar properties sold for but only use this as a guide.

How do you determine how much my home is worth?

As well as a comparative market report, things such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the state of the kitchen, window quality, location, roof age and style of the property will also be taken into consideration to determine its worth.

What happens if I change my mind?

Don’t worry! An offer to buy or sell a property is not legally binding in England and Wales until contracts are exchanged. After this, there may be some legal implications but before any contracts have been signed, you just have to cover any estate agency fees.

Shall I leave appliances or not?

Some buyers appreciate appliances and big furniture items being left but some would prefer you didn’t. If you can’t make up your mind and know you don’t want to take the items with you, give the buyer an option and offer a slightly reduced price if they don’t want them.

Should I be present when someone is viewing my home?

There is no right or wrong answer here but many sellers forget that their own behaviour says a million words. If you’re frosty, rude and bored then your property will have the same negative feeling. Some buyers will also feel more confident asking questions if the seller isn’t present.

How long will the process take?

This depends on the property and anyone involved in the chain. As a guide, look at the local market to compare how long similar properties were on the market for and when offers come in, ask whether the potential buyer is waiting to sell their property before they move. There is no definitive answer.

Remember asking questions is the only way to enlighten yourself so the more you ask, the less confused you’ll be. Good luck selling! If you are thinking of selling and have any questions, please get in touch.