I have lots of family members and friends who are or were recently in the process of selling their homes. One close friend had her home on the market for almost a year before taking a significantly lower price to secure a sale. Another put her house on the market in the same week and sold it within 4 days. They were similar houses, in a similar postcode, so why did one sell and not the other? In this post, we will give you some pointers on how to sell your home fast. All information is based on research my friend and I conducted when we were trying to figure out how one house could sell so fast, when others can’t!
Whether you’re a first-time seller or an experienced homeowner looking to move on, understanding the key steps involved will help you get the best price and (hopefully) minimize stress. Here’s how to sell your home fast in the UK.
1. Understand the Market
Before listing your property, it’s important to research the local property market. Look at recent sales in your area to gauge what similar homes are selling for. The UK housing market can fluctuate, so checking trends and consulting estate agents will help you set realistic expectations.
Key actions:
- Check property listing websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket.
- Speak with local estate agents for a market appraisal.
- Monitor house price trends via HM Land Registry reports.
2. Choose the Right Estate Agent
Selecting the right estate agent can make a significant difference in the speed and success of your sale. Consider the following when choosing an agent:
- Look for agents with experience in your local market.
- Check online reviews and testimonials.
- Compare fees and commission structures.
- Assess their marketing strategy – do they use professional photography and online advertising?
Some sellers opt for online estate agents like Purplebricks or Yopa, which often charge fixed fees rather than commissions, potentially saving you money.
3. Price Your Property Competitively
Setting the right asking price is crucial. Overpricing can deter buyers, while underpricing could mean losing out on potential profit. Factors influencing property value include:
- Location and neighbourhood demand.
- Property condition and features.
- Recent sales of comparable homes.
- Economic and mortgage market conditions.
A professional valuation from an estate agent or chartered surveyor can help you determine an accurate price.
4. Prepare Your Home for Viewings
First impressions matter, and presenting your home in the best possible light will attract buyers.
- Declutter and Depersonalise – Remove excess furniture, family photos, and personal items to help buyers envision themselves in the space. In fact, ensure your home is decluttered before the estate agent comes to take images of your property! If you don’t have anywhere to store your belongings during the moving period, the best thing to do is to utilise Self Storage Manchester. Your things can be stored securely while ensuring to prepare your home efficiently for viewings.
- Deep Clean – Ensure the property is spotless, focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, and windows.
- Make Necessary Repairs – Fix any visible defects such as peeling paint, dripping taps, or broken fixtures.
- Enhance Kerb Appeal – The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see. Mow the lawn, repaint the front door, and add some potted plants.
- Optimise Lighting and Space – Open curtains, use mirrors to reflect light, and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
5. Consider Home Staging
Home staging involves strategically furnishing and decorating your home to make it more appealing to potential buyers. This can include:
- Rearranging furniture to highlight space and functionality.
- Adding fresh flowers or neutral décor to make spaces feel welcoming.
- Setting the dining table to create a homely feel.
- Using subtle scents like freshly baked bread or brewed coffee to create a warm ambiance.
- Use welcoming scents by lighting candles or wax melts before a viewing.
Staged homes often sell faster and for higher prices.
6. Market Your Property Effectively
Good marketing is key to attracting buyers. Your estate agent will typically handle this, but you can take extra steps to enhance visibility:
- Professional Photography – High-quality images can make a big difference in online listings.
- Compelling Property Description – Highlight unique selling points like period features, garden space, or proximity to transport links.
- Social Media and Networking – Share your listing on social media and ask friends or family to spread the word.
- Virtual Tours – Offering a 360-degree video tour can help buyers get a feel for the space before they visit. These are becoming increasingly popular.
7. Be Flexible with Viewings
Accommodating potential buyers’ schedules can increase your chances of securing an offer. Consider:
- Offering evening and weekend viewings.
- Allowing virtual viewings for those unable to attend in person.
- Keeping the home presentable at all times in case of short-notice viewings.
8. Negotiate Smartly
Once you receive offers, it’s important to negotiate effectively. Your estate agent will handle this, but keep these tips in mind:
- Consider All Offers – The highest offer isn’t always the best; look at the buyer’s position (e.g., are they a cash buyer or in a chain?).
- Be Prepared to Counteroffer – If an offer is too low, you can negotiate for a better price. Don’t be afraid to haggle!
- Assess the Buyer’s Situation – A first-time buyer or chain-free buyer might be preferable for a quicker sale.
9. Handle the Legal Side Efficiently
Selling a property involves legal paperwork, so hiring a good conveyancer or solicitor is essential. They will handle:
- Drafting contracts and managing negotiations.
- Conducting property searches.
- Liaising with the buyer’s solicitor to ensure a smooth process.
10. Prepare for Moving Day
Once contracts are exchanged and a completion date is set, start planning your move:
- Book a removal company well in advance.
- Redirect mail and inform utility providers of your move.
- Ensure you leave the property in the agreed condition.
Selling your home in the UK requires careful planning, strategic pricing, and effective marketing. By following these expert tips, you can maximise your home’s appeal, attract serious buyers, and secure the best possible price. With the right preparation and a proactive approach, your sale can be smooth and successful.
Are you planning to sell your home soon? Or do you have any tips and tricks on how to sell your home fast? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Featured Image by Trista from Pixabay
