Thinking of selling your home? Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or simply ready for a change, selling a property can feel like a daunting process. Our guide breaks it down into 10 clear, manageable steps to help you navigate each stage with confidence.
From setting the right price and choosing a solicitor to preparing for viewings and moving day, we’ve laid out what to expect, what to prepare, and how to make the most of your sale. Whether you’re a first-time seller or you’re familiar with the process, this unbiased guide will keep you on track.
Key Takeaways:
- Get a professional valuation and compare recent sales to guide your pricing.
- Choose a reliable estate agent and conveyancer early.
- Declutter, clean, and prepare your home before launching it to market.
- Understand key legal steps, from offers to exchange and completion.
- Selling takes on average 5–6 months, so staying organised is essential.
Step 1: Find out how much your home is worth
Before you make any decisions, get a sense of your property’s value. Online valuation tools can provide a quick estimate, but a face-to-face valuation from a local estate agent will give you a more accurate figure. They’ll assess your home’s condition, features, layout, and local market demand.
Take time to compare with similar properties in your area that have recently sold. This gives you a realistic benchmark when it’s time to set your asking price.
Step 2: Decide when to sell
Timing can affect your sale. Spring (February to June) is traditionally the busiest and often most successful period to list your home. Autumn (September to October) is also popular, while summer and mid-winter tend to be quieter due to holidays and seasonal slowdowns.
If your home is on the market for too long without serious interest, buyers may assume there’s an issue, so launching at the right time is key. Although it’s harder to track, it’s also worth keeping an eye on the wider housing market to see how it is affecting buying and selling across the country.
Step 3: Prepare your home for sale
Buyers form an impression within seconds, so first impressions matter. Start by:
- Decluttering: Remove personal items and unnecessary furniture to create a sense of space.
- Deep cleaning: Clean every surface, from carpets to windowsills.
- Touching up: Repaint scuffed walls, fix minor issues, and refresh any tired spaces.
- Kerb appeal: Tidy your entrance, mow the lawn, and fix peeling paint or cluttered driveways.
Where possible, stage your home to showcase its best features. Consider creating a designated home office space if buyers may work remotely.
Step 4: Choose your estate agent
A good agent makes a big difference. Look for someone with strong local knowledge, recent success in selling similar homes, and a transparent approach. Fees vary, but don’t decide based on cost alone. Trust, communication, and marketing approach are just as important. It is possible to try selling your house yourself, but you’ll still need expert advice along the way, and you may encounter some difficulties at certain stages of the sale.
Step 5: Get your documents ready
Preparing paperwork early can prevent delays later. Key documents include:
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – a legal requirement.
- Building Regulation or Planning Permission documents for any extensions or alterations.
- FENSA certificates for windows/doors.
- Boiler service history and Gas Safety Certificates.
- Leasehold details (if applicable).
Your solicitor will also ask you to complete forms about fixtures, boundaries, and any disputes, so it helps to gather everything in advance.
Step 6: Instruct a solicitor or conveyancer
As soon as you’re ready to sell, choose a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legal side. They’ll draft the contract, liaise with the buyer’s solicitor, and ensure all the right checks are carried out. Ask for recommendations from your agent, friends, or family, but ensure they’re responsive and experienced. It’s also worth considering how much a solicitor’s fees will be or conveyancer’s fees will be before proceeding with any work.
Step 7: Put your home on the market
Once your home is prepared and your documents are in place, your estate agent will arrange professional photos and write a listing that highlights its best features. The right marketing will attract serious buyers, so ensure your agent is using quality photography, floorplans, and listing it across major property portals.
Step 8: Manage viewings and offers
Your agent will arrange viewings and provide feedback. Try to keep your home tidy and allow for flexible viewing times. You can also consider the pros and cons of holding an open house date if your agent can arrange and publicise it. Once offers come in:
- Consider both the amount and the buyer’s position (e.g. are they in a property chain? Is their mortgage approved).
- You don’t have to accept the first offer. You can negotiate or ask for best and final offers. Prepare to have multiple offers on your property and decide what factors are most important to making your final decision. Sometimes, there are factors beyond the offer price that you may want to consider.
- Once an offer is accepted, your solicitor will begin the formal conveyancing process.
Step 9: Progress the sale and exchange contracts
This phase includes surveys, mortgage arrangements, and legal checks. Stay in close contact with your solicitor and agent to keep everything moving. You’ll need to answer any buyer queries quickly and ensure all paperwork is in order.
Once contracts are exchanged, the sale becomes legally binding. A completion date will be set, usually a week or two later.
Step 10: Completion and moving out
On completion day, the buyer’s solicitor transfers the money, and the estate agent releases the keys. Make sure you:
- Read meters and inform utility companies.
- Cancel or transfer your insurance.
- Leave the property clean, clear of belongings, and in good condition.
- Hand over any keys, manuals, and documents for appliances or systems.
Congratulations, your sale is complete! Time to make a thorough plan to ensure you have a stress-free home move, and look forward to being in your new property.
FAQs
How long does it take to sell a home?
On average, the process takes around 25 weeks from listing to completion. This varies depending on your chain, buyer readiness, and solicitor efficiency. Read our guide on how quickly a house sale can go through to get an idea of the factors which can affect the speed of your sale.
How much does it cost to sell a house?
Costs vary but averages can include:
- Estate agent fees: typically 1% to 3% of the sale price
- Conveyancing: £800 – £1,800
- EPC: £60 – £120
- Removal costs: £400 – £1,800 depending on distance and services.
Do I need an EPC to sell my home?
Yes. It’s a legal requirement to have a valid Energy Performance Certificate when marketing a property. If yours has expired, your agent can help arrange a new one. You can find out more about EPCs on the government website.
Can I sell and buy a house at the same time?
Yes, but it adds complexity. Get your agent, solicitor, and mortgage advisor lined up early. Respond promptly to avoid hold-ups and keep communication open throughout.
What happens if a sale falls through?
It’s unfortunate, but not uncommon. Keep in touch with your agent to relist quickly and maintain interest. Being flexible and well-prepared can help avoid future delays.
For more local property guidance or if you’d like to speak to someone about your next move, get in touch with our expert team or read more of our top tips for selling your home.
Do you have a property for sale in Billericay? Ashton White’s team of experienced property agents are experts at selling houses in the local area. Get in touch today and start your journey with us.