Selling a house - F.A.Q

Is it important to have a ‘for sale’ board?
Yes. Wherever possible we strongly encourage our clients to have a ‘for sale’ board outside their property. It generates a substantial volume of interest, both telephone enquiries and from prospective buyers collecting details from the office. Our boards are distinctive and well recognised around the area. Many people who are looking to move to the area will come down, often at the weekend, and drive around familiarising themselves with the district. ‘For sale’ boards are hugely important to them, giving them an idea what properties are available.

Should I put my property on the market with one agent or several agents?
We would suggest you instruct one agent, preferably a local agent, with a good reputation. An agent who specialises in the area your property is in will have a good client base of potential buyers looking for your type of property. They will be well respected in the local market, and will be able to give expert advice about the area to buyers coming from further afield. It is important to understand that using several agents many not necessarily give you a better chance of selling your property quickly. Using multiple agents has its advantages and disadvantages. Potential buyers will usually register with most local agents. Providing that you chose an agent which will advertise your property in a variety of ways, one agent will be adequate. Using more than one agent usually means an increase in fees, sometimes more than doubling what the cost may be for just using one agent.

How are viewings arranged?
We will arrange a viewing for a time convenient to you. Some owners who are still living in their property may want to conduct the viewing themselves. This often gives you the opportunity to ask questions first hand. Alternatively, a member of the sales team may accompany applicants. We will always accompany a viewing to an empty property.

Is there a charge for a market appraisal of my home?
No, we will not charge for a market appraisal. We also offer the facility of valuations for probate and other purposes, and these do carry a fee.

What will happen during a market appraisal?
Our valuer will call at your property to give you an indication of what your property is worth in the current housing market dependant on how quickly you need a sale to be effected. We will discuss your personal plans – whether you are thinking of moving or just considering your options. We will advise you of our terms and conditions if you are thinking of putting your property on the market, and give you any marketing advice you may require. The appraisal is entirely without obligation – we don’t believe in the hard sell approach.