It’s no secret that spring is the best time to buy a house. So if you’re planning on selling, now is the time to put your home on the market.
With house prices still reaching new record highs, you could seriously cash in on any work you’ve done to your current property and move up the ladder. The average homeowner stays in their mortgaged home for over 8 years, so it could have been a while since you sold a property. If this is your first time selling, you might be confused with the process. Namely, should you find a house first and then go on the market, or should you go on the market and hope you find a house?!
Have your property valued
In such a hot market, it’s always worth getting your ducks in a row – and that means having your property valued. Have a look on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla and On the Market for houses similar to yours in the local area. This will give you an idea of what your home could be worth.
If you’re happy with that rough estimation, you should contact at least three local agents currently selling houses like yours.
Figure out your budget
Once you’ve had your house valued, you can start thinking about your new home budget. You should speak with a mortgage advisor to see how much you could borrow and if you can port your current mortgage or pay it off and get a new one.
Decide on what you want your new home to have
If you’re moving, think about what it is that’s causing the move. Are the rooms too small? Or do you need a bigger garden? Perhaps the road is too busy, or you need to be in a school catchment area?
Sit down and decide what you’re looking for, and this will help you figure out what you can get in your budget and where.
Choose an estate agent
If you’re committed to selling your home and moving on to new pastures, you should choose an estate agent. Don’t just go with the one that offered the highest valuation; go with the one that you liked – they’ll be representing you and your home.
Prepare your home for photos and viewings
You only get one chance to make a first impression, and it starts with photos. More people are looking for houses online, so home presentation is essential. Now is also the perfect time to clear out the clutter!
Get your paperwork sorted out
Get ready to accept an offer by instructing a conveyancing solicitor from the start. That way, you can have all your paperwork completed and ready to go. From finding the deeds to getting all the insurance information sorted, will help speed up the process.
Wait for the offers
Once you’re on the market, it’s just a waiting game! Remember, it only needs one offer to sell a home – and a house is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it!
