- Date Published:
- 19/06/2008
This next section looks at the legalities and how to show your home in the best way.
Legalities
You need to appoint a solicitor or a conveyancer to deal with the sale. Ring around and get accurate quotes - you don't want any nasty surprises. Aim for an all-inclusive package. You can do it yourself but it could well turn out to be complicated and simply not worth the hassle or risk.
Note also that Home Information Packs (HIPs) are now required for all homes in England and Wales. As well as standard stuff such as title searches, there are ingredients such as an energy performance certificate. Check out the government website as developments are ongoing.
Showing Your Home
Optimising Your Home
- Decluttering is vital. As well as having a sort and throw out, consider putting some stuff and large furniture into paid storage until a sale is achieved.
- If using an estate agent, ask them for a brutally honest appraisal of what to get rid of or change, and whether there are any major flaws. You might be able to improve some easily.
- Don't spend lots of money on fancy decoration schemes which new owners may well want to change.
- Do spend money on basic repairs, ensuring your home is in good working order.
- Tidy up outside and aim to make the entry as attractive as possible - a new coat of paint for the front door if necessary, some instant 'potted colour' from the garden centre and so on.
- Make sure it is CLEAN!
House Viewings
- Your agent should be present - it's generally good for you to be available, but your presence could hinder rather than help if you are not careful. If in doubt, check with your agent.
- If you are present, be relaxed and positive about your property, have information ready, such as utility bills, guarantees and notes about maintenance work, let visitors look for themselves and give them a chance to absorb it all.
- Don't be oversensitive - it's normal for buyers to point out 'faults', especially if they are trying to disguise how keen they are prior to making an offer.
- If you have dogs or other pets arrange for them to be out.
- To disguise odours, use something fresh and natural like a few drops of grapefruit essential oil in hot water instead of overpowering sprays.
- Before buyers leave have a relaxed chat to discreetly find out about them and their circumstances.
Jon Henley embarks on a journey to see how the pursuit of property ownership has changed the country
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