16th March 2021

‘Should I stay or should I go’ – by ‘The Clash’ (May 1982) My musical era by the way!

As a homeowner, you most likely ask yourself the same question time & time again. Should I/We stay in our current home, or is it time to move? Let’s try and help you here if the answer to your question is a resounding  – Yes!

Are you ready to make that long-awaited move?

The idea of selling your home, especially for the first time, can be a daunting one. No sales period is the same, and you should not be alarmed if the waiting period for your property to sell is longer than you expect. On the other hand, it is important to ensure you are doing all you can to attract potential buyers.

Make sure you get an up-to-date professional valuation

The bottom line is that it all comes down to the price. If you’ve got the presentation right, then the price is a big swing factor for potential buyers. If your home ticks all the boxes from transport links, good schools nearby, extras like secluded gardens and a garage etc, but falls in an unrealistic price bracket, buyers are going to opt for something else nearby.

Choose the right estate agent

Make sure you use the ‘right’ estate agent. A dedicated agent who is actually interested in ‘You’ and not just your home, will go above and beyond expectations to seal a deal. The right agent will know your area and local market inside out, its annual peaks and troughs, which demographics will be interested in your property and what appeals most to them. They will be your eyes and ears throughout the process and take the initiative to try something new if what you’re currently doing isn’t working. Finding the buyer is only one small part of what an estate agent will do for you. A ‘good’ agent will really come into their own when it comes to actually getting the sale through to the exchange of contracts and completion.

Set the right price, factor in the cost of moving

Most Agents’ will provide a minor variation in their valuation of your home. Consider this: Do you want a quick sale? Are you in a chain because you have to sell before you can buy? Are you happy to wait for a better price because you are in no hurry to move? Is it the right time of the year, and are you ready for the upheaval that moving home will cause? What about the costs. Agent fees can be high, check the detail and the small print! There is also the cost of an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), conveyancing/legal fees and a removals company. Make sure you shop around and get several quotes.

Organise a video walk-through

One of the best ways to drum up sales interest in a crowded property market is to use a video tour. These can be highly effective for sellers who have struggled for some time to sell without compromising too much on the price. Make sure you liaise with your estate agent directly on how to conduct the most inviting video footage.

Now let’s make your property look great

Kerb appeal

The front of your home is the first thing that prospective buyers will see. Make it look fresh and tidy. Try a coat of paint, new plants in your garden, cut the grass, stain the fence or how about a new front door. Whatever approach you take, make sure your home looks appealing from the outside. First impressions count, and will go a long way to making any potential buyer keen to look around!

Inside your home

It goes without saying that a tidy, un-cluttered home will enhance your chances of securing a buyer. Most people viewing will want to see all of the space that is available! Don’t waste time on a full decoration, the chances are the buyer will change it anyway! Do make sure however that the decor is clean, light and appealing. Note that most buyers are particularly interested in the kitchen and the bathroom, spend a bit more time on those……

Finally, is it a good time to sell?

In short ‘Yes’ – With the stamp duty holiday extended until 30th June 2021* and the general fervour still surrounding the housing market at this time. Right now could be the best opportunity you will have for quite some time to make that long awaited move. Get your no obligation free valuation now – Oh and Good Luck with your move!

* Note that the threshold up until 30th June 2021 is £500,000. Thereafter and until the 30th September 2021, the threshold tapers to £250,000