Useful Tips

"Choosing the right estate agent to sell your property is the absolute key to a smooth transaction. In my experience most vendors don’t pay sufficient attention to getting this right."
Phil Spencer, Co-presenter of Channel 4’s Location, Location, Location and Relocation, and graduate in Estate Management.

Many Vendors wish to sell their home...

• With as little hassle/stress as possible
• For the best price achievable
• To the most suitable buyer
• Within a convenient time frame

Choosing the correct agent is crucial to achieving this.

NEITHER AN AGENTS VALUATION NOR THEIR FEES HAVE ANY BEARING ON THE SUCCESS OF THE ABOVE FACTORS, and both should be treated separately to choosing your agent.

Choose your agent FIRST, and then negotiate your fee with them. Be wary of low fees – junior rates and experienced, successful staff don’t match! It is important your agent is motivated and therefore provides quality service. Many people get hung up on fees, but in fact in the UK agents fees are amongst the lowest in the world – for example in the USA standard fees are around 6%! Generally you will find reputable firms operating with fees between 1 and 3%.

When meeting with agents discover how they intend to sell your home, who will be selling, and how they will negotiate and consolidate the deal.

When requesting valuations it is important to note that agents do not actually VALUE your home, but instead only suggest an ASKING PRICE through appraisal. (True property valuations cost several hundred pounds and are carried out by specialist qualified surveyors). Your home is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. The agents guide will take into account your properties location, condition, type, potential, market conditions and comparable sales. We recommend you gain three separate valuations to help towards deciding upon the asking price. Consider carefully, as the highest figure may not be the most realistic.

Once a guide price has been agreed, your agent will discuss the marketing approach for your property. Be honest, as your input will affect their advice.

We have further information available on the following:

• Types of agency
• Adding value to your property
• Tips on presentation
• Target markets
• Selling features
• Asking price
• Advertising
• Sale boards
• Viewings
• Considering offers
• Costs related to selling
• Choosing a solicitor
• Conveyancing

To request this free information or to arrange a property appraisal call 01434 601800 or email info@viewcountyhomes.com.

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Buying and selling houses can be one of the most stressful experiences in life. However there are certain processes that can greatly reduce this stress and help towards a controlled and successful purchase. We recommend the following:
1) Organise your finances – Find out exactly how much you can borrow, and what type of borrowing will best suit your circumstances. This can be done on-line or through a financial advisor; usually for free. When organizing your funds remember to include provision for:

• Deposits
• Surveys
• Solicitors fees
• Mortgage fees
• Removal costs
• Stamp duties

2) Identify and prioritise your key requirements towards the purchase. These may include location, number of bedrooms, property condition, outlook and elevation, age, parking, room size, proximity to transport links, schools and amenities, etc.

3) Register your interest with estate agents, and maintain sensible, polite contact. Ensure they have your full and correct contact details, and an understanding of your requirements and buying position.

4) Keep an open mind and be prepared to view – You may never find the perfect property, and may have to compromise certain factors on your wish list. Remember, what you lose in one area you may gain in another! Particulars alone don’t provide enough information to make a valued and informed judgment. Only by viewing can you tell if the area and the “feel” are right for you

5) Offers – Put your offer forward in writing to the agent. This not only demonstrates your serious intent, but also highlights your organized and attractive buying position.

6) Choose a recommended solicitor – it is important that your solicitor maintains good communication with both you and the vendors solicitor. Most agents will have a list of solicitors who have successfully dealt with their previous sales.

We have more information available on the following

• Types of ownership
• Legislation on cash buyers
• Stamp duty thresholds
• The agents role to the buyer
• Conveyancing procedure
• Surveys
• Moving costs
• Exchange of contracts
• Completing the sale

To request this free information or to arrange a property appraisal call 01434 601800 or email info@viewcountyhomes.com.

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