So, you’ve decided to sell your home. Whatever the reason – be it upsizing, downsizing, or moving out of the area completely – selling a property can be a challenging – but rewarding – undertaking.
At Brookings, we’re supporting first-time sellers by highlighting everything you need to know about making the sale, from valuation and marketing to mortgages and legal work.
Here’s our five top tips for speeding up the sale of your home
Houses sell faster in spring (according to research)
The housing market is affected by a huge number of factors, not least the time of the year. School holidays, festivities and even the weather can play a part in how quickly your home sells.
According to the HomeOwners Alliance (HOA), spring “always comes out on top” as the best time to sell. This is because it is nestled conveniently between the busy Christmas period and the summer holidays.
Spring also brings out the best in gardens and provides plenty of light to brighten rooms and heighten curb appeal.
Have a flexible pricing strategy
While no-one wants to knowingly undersell their home, being open to offers will almost definitely help speed up the sale of your home. If you are willing to accept an offer of less than your asking price, look for buyers who are not part of a chain or are paying in cash, as these factors usually prevent disruption further down the line.
Generate more viewings by lowering your listing price
These days, almost every home on the market is listed on digital platforms such as Zoopla and Rightmove. While this significantly increases the number of eyes on your property, it also increases competition. If your home is priced higher than similar-sized properties in the same area, it is less likely to attract attention.
First impressions count
They say that a buyer will know whether they want to purchase a property from the moment they walk through the front door.
If first impressions really do count for everything, speed up your sale by making your property look and smell the best it can be. Find out how to declutter, depersonalise and refresh your home here.
Prepare ahead
Finding a buyer is just one part of the puzzle. You can prepare ahead by appointing a conveyancer, researching a removals firm, completing an energy performance certificate (EPC), talking to a mortgage broker, and selecting your estate agent all before the “for sale” sign is erected outside your house.
For help and advice on the entire home moving process, please get in touch with our expert team today.
