Prepare your paperwork early to expedite the process. Whether you’re remortgaging or porting your existing loan, gather details of your current mortgage and locate your property title. Additionally, gather any guarantees and certificates for work done at your property.

Ensure your property makes a great first impression by presenting it in its best light. Help potential buyers envision themselves living there by focusing on the kitchens and bathrooms during each viewing. Highlight the spaciousness of your property to address the common reason people move – running out of space.

If you have decided to sell your property, speaking to a solicitor when your home goes on the market can ensure they are ready to send out contract papers as soon as you have a buyer. They will obtain your title deeds and a copy of the legal title to your property and give you the property information fixtures and fittings form. They will also do the work needed to verify your identification.

Maximise your property’s exposure by utilising various social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, email campaigns, and property websites like Rightmove or Zoopla. Remember, not all buyers are the same. Those not in a chain or first-time buyers may be more appealing than someone in a chain.

Conducting viewings yourself can be challenging – especially when you face criticisms, technical questions or pressure over something as personal as your home. As estate agent will guide and encourage prospective buyers, as well as know how to handle these challenges.

At this stage, both solicitors will draft contracts. Once both parties sign the contracts, the sale becomes legally binding. The buyer’s solicitor will transfer the buyer’s name to the deeds through the land registry office, and the deposit will be transferred to your solicitor. Your solicitor will notify you when the funds have cleared in your account. They will then contact your estate agent to request the release of the keys. Congratulations on selling your property!

Once you accept the best offer for you, your estate agent will prepare a memorandum of sale, confirm the agreed price with all parties and ask you to confirm your solicitor’s details. Your solicitor will send out a draft contract to the buyer’s solicitor who will then carry out preliminary enquiries. At this stage you will also be able to agree on dates for the survey on your property, the exchange of contracts and proposed date for completion. There are no legal obligations until contracts are signed.

Both solicitors will be drafting contracts at this time. Once both parties sign the contracts (exchange contracts), the sale is legally binding. The buyer’s solicitor will organise transferring the buyer’s name to the deeds via the Land Registry Office, and the deposit will be transferred to your solicitor. Your solicitor will call you when the money has cleared in your account. They will then contact your agent and ask to release the keys. Congratulations, you have just sold your property.