The estate agent

When choosing an estate agent, talk to friends who have sold recently for their experiences and count the “For Sale” and “Sold” boards in your area to find out which agents have the highest success rate.
Get valuations from two or three estate agents. Do not choose an agent simply because he has given you the highest valuation, unless you are sure the price is realistic. Buyers will be put off viewing a property they feel is overpriced.

Home Information Pack

Estate agents will try to be a one stop shop by offering every service associated with buying and selling houses. However, putting all your eggs in one basket may not be a good idea. If you would like an independent source for your Home Information Pack production click on the HIPS link on the left hand column on any page on this site.

The price

Research prices being asked for similar properties in your area. Check with estate agents and look in the local paper. If you want a quick sale, ask for less.
Like all prices, house prices are determined by the law of supply and demand - the greater the demand, the higher the price. The worst times for demand tend to be November, December, July and August.

Providing details

Ensure that the photographs of the property are in colour and preferably taken on a sunny day. Provide interior as well as exterior shots.
Make sure that the estate agents description is correct. They are legally obliged to give the right details. Make sure that special features such as French windows, walk-in wardrobes and wall cavity insulation are mentioned.
Provide a list of answers to the questions viewers are likely to ask, such as which shops and supermarkets are nearby, the standard of local schools, and what public transport is available.

Making the most of your home

Resist temptation to totally redecorate, it could arouse suspicion. You are unlikely to recoup the cost of installing a brand-new bathroom suite or fitted kitchen when you sell.
Tidy the garden, particularly at the front of your home, first impressions count. Window boxes can break up bare lines, add colour, and are fairly inexpensive...and you can always take them with you.
Pay attention to detail. Fix faulty door latches and squeaky hinges. Make sure that windows do not stick. Mend guttering and fix loose roof tiles.
A fully furnished home with a lived-in feel is more appealing than an empty one, butavoid letting the place appear cramped or cluttered. Identify and remove a few unnecessary pieces of furniture and rooms can appear considerably more spacious.
Traditionally viewers pay most attention to the bathroom and kitchen, so make sure that these appear bright and clean.
Treat any serious problems such as damp or dry rot before you put the house on the market. If you are unable to fix these problems do not try to hide them from viewers as they will be uncovered when the property is surveyed.

Showing the property

Create a pleasant atmosphere. Vases of newly cut flowers can give a fresh feel, while gentle music on the stereo can put buyers at ease.
Introduce homely smells such as the aroma of freshly baked bread or newly brewed coffee - but be careful that they do not become overpowering.
Avoid using strong, synthetic air conditioners; viewers may suspect you are trying to mask other odours such as damp or drains.
In the summer, open windows, and in the winter turn up the heating to make the place cosy.
Have bills to hand to show buyers what they can expect to pay for gas and electricity. Have other facts available, such as whether the property carries a National House Building Council ten-year guarantee, or if there are any damp-proofing or timber treatment guarantees
Make clear what carpets, curtains and/or electrical appliances are to be left.
Do not hover behind viewers while they look around, but let them inspect things on their own at their own pace.
Answer questions openly and honestly. If the buyer believes you are a friendly and co-operative person to do business with, the more likely they are to put in an offer.