Selling your house FAQs

On average it takes around 6-9 months to sell a property. There are many factors that may reduce or increase this time such as if your purchaser is a first-time buyer or in a chain, if they are a cash buyer and the current market conditions.

A conveyancer’s fee is generally based on the type of client (someone selling only or someone selling and buying etc.) and the sale price. This is quite a tricky one to estimate however a ballpark figure would be around £1,200-£4,000.

As there are many conveyancers to choose from, it is worth obtaining a minimum of two to three quotes to make sure you are getting good value. Remember, you shouldn’t base your decision solely on cost, so make sure you look up their reviews.

This will entirely depend on the type of property you have, your budget and appetite to carry out work. Typically carrying our extensions or loft conversions can increase the value but they do come at a cost! Before proceeding with any major works, it is highly recommended you take advice from a valuer/estate agent to ensure the increased value will cover the cost of the work.

Smaller improvements such as painting the property, improving the garden and kerb appeal (how the property looks externally), renewing floor coverings and addressing any defects may help increase the value.

If you own one property it is unlikely that you will be required to pay capital gains tax (CGT). CGT typically occurs when a seller has more than one property or if the property is used as a business premises. You should speak to a tax specialist if you think you may be liable for paying CGT.

Research shows that it is most beneficial to sell your house in the spring time. The weather tends to be improving, natural sunlight helps improve the appeal of the property, and flower and plants in the garden are in bloom which add to the kerb appeal.

Typically, estate agents work on commission based on a percentage of the sale price. The percentage will depend on the estate agent and the level of service they provide however the average rate is somewhere between 0.5-2%.

The simple answer is yes you can up to the point of exchange of contracts. Accepting a second offer and withdrawing from your initial agreement doesn’t always go down well and may set you back in the selling process. After exchange has taken place, you could still withdraw, however there will be a financial penalty.

Preparing your property for the surveyor’s visit won’t do any harm but it is important not to try and conceal any issues. Opening blinds and windows, ensuring access is provided to all areas, and tidying the property will help assist the surveyor. It is likely that should the surveyor not be able to access an area, they will want to revisit which will slow the sale down.