Step-by-Step Guide to selling a home privately

Stage 1: Determine Your Asking Price
Setting the right price for your home is essential. Consider looking through local historical sales on platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla to grasp the market value of similar properties in your area, the price will also reflect how long the property will be on the market until it’s sold. We have pulled the sales figures from HM Land registry to make it simple to see a list of data, simply enter your full postcode here https://listedbyowners.co.uk/search-by-postcode/

Stage 2: Enhance Your Home’s Appeal
First impressions count. Before your listing goes live, invest some time and effort into giving it a makeover. Tidy the outside first and make sure the grass is cut, windows and cills are clean before the viewing takes place. Apply a fresh coat of paint, declutter the rooms and surfaces, and address minor repairs to ensure your property looks better that the next one they potential buyers is seeing that day.

Stage 3: Market Your Property Effectively
Having a great looking listing is ok but you need to get it seen.

Utilise a range of marketing channels to attract potential buyers. While platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla do not cater directly to private sellers, explore alternative options such as online or hybrid estate agents for exposure. Additionally, leverage local advertising methods like leafleting, noticeboards, and word-of-mouth within your community.

How far away does your buyer live now?
(Source https://www.reallymoving.com/help-and-advice/guides/uk-moving-distance-map )
Whilst almost everyone has joked about picking up and moving away from it all, the median distance moved in the UK in 2018 was surprisingly only 9 miles. This distance has remained unchanged for 5 years, with 51% of moves in 2018 measuring under 10 miles, and nearly two thirds under 20 miles. This suggests that as much as we may dream of pastures new, most of us stay where we have family, a community, a job or a sense of security. This means if you focus on your local area you are more likely to find a buyer and incur less in fees to achieve a sale.

Stage 4: Organise Viewings
As a private seller, arranging property viewings becomes your responsibility. If you’re unable to conduct viewings yourself, enlist the help of friends or family members. Ensure your home is presentable and be ready to answer any queries potential buyers may have.
Consider having a floor plan and an EPC both are inexpensive and worth having.

Stage 5: Negotiate Wisely
Clearly communicate your minimum acceptable price and negotiate accordingly. Don’t feel compelled to accept an offer that falls short of your expectations. Politely decline offers if necessary, while keeping lines of communication open for potential revised offers.

Stage 6: Confirm an Offer
Once you’ve verbally agreed upon an offer, request written confirmation for documentation purposes. Although not legally binding until contracts are exchanged, having a written record can offer clarity and assurance throughout the process.
Confirm all discussions by email immediately so you have an audit trail.

Stage 7: Engage a Solicitor or Conveyancer
Selecting a reputable solicitor or conveyancer is vital for a seamless transaction. Research local options and seek recommendations from acquaintances. Consider licensed conveyancers as a cost-effective alternative to solicitors. We know of Conveyancers who offer “No Sale No Fee” which can save a lot of money in the event a buyer fails to complete.

Consider some of the Potential Risks
Stay vigilant throughout the selling process to avoid pitfalls:

Advertising Stage: Avoid disclosing your full address especially if the property is empty in advertisements and consider using email as the primary contact method.

Enquiry Stage: Gather comprehensive information about prospective buyers and exercise caution regarding offers made without prior property viewings. You need to know who they are, ideally where they are from, their own situation such as in a chain, cash buyer or simply out for a drive on a Sunday afternoon.

Viewings Stage: Always have a companion present during viewings and establish a safety protocol in case of discomfort. Secure valuables and avoid sharing sensitive information until contracts are exchanged.

Conveyancing Stage: Ensure your chosen solicitor or conveyancer is reliable and trustworthy, you should research them and be comfortable knowing they will offer you a good service.

By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process of selling your home privately with confidence and success.