Brookes Hall Residential Estate & Lettings Agent in Cheltenham

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Property Sales

The Essential House Seller’s Guide:

Brookes Hall has prepared the following advice as we want not only to achieve the best price for your property but to make selling your home as stress-free as possible.

• The first step to take is find out exactly how much your property is worth. Arrange a minimum of two market appraisals to get an idea of the price. During this time it is also important to learn more about the estate agent, such as the services they offer. Finally set a realistic asking price.
• Make a decision on which agent to instruct. Do not make a decision solely on who has the cheapest commission fee or gives the highest valuation - this can be a false economy in the long run. Consider the level of service you will receive. Look at the agent’s websites and see how they present their current properties. Request a look at their marketing brochures. Please do look at Brookes Halls’ Services to discover why we are confident you will be happy with us as your agent.
• If your property has any substantial flaws it is important to tell your estate agent before they put your property on the market, it really could be the difference between a sale going ahead or falling through at the survey stage
• Think about whether this is the best time to be selling. The estate agent you instruct should have a thorough understanding of the current market; however popular times to sell include the New Year and early summer.
• View your home through the eyes of a potential buyer. Brookes Hall will give you honest advice on how you can increase the value of your home and make it more appealing.
• Decide which fixtures and fittings are going to be included to avoid any bartering later.
• When it comes to viewings it is best left to the professionals. Brookes Hall knows how to show your home to its best potential plus viewers are more likely to give valuable honest feedback if you aren’t there. It is also best to keep pets and children out of the way if possible.
• To make sure you get the best possible deal leave all negotiations to your estate agent. They should be very experienced and will do everything they possibly can to get you the best price for your property.
• To help you make a decision when considering an offer, your agent should give you as much information as possible about the potential buyer, and their ability to proceed. As well as considering the minimum price you’d accept, the position of the buyer makes a big difference to achieving a successful sale. Things such as, do they have a property to sell or are they a cash buyer should be considered. Your agent should also be able to get the offer qualified by an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA).
• Once a sale has been agreed you will need a conveyancing solicitor to handle the legal side. It is essential to get a solicitor you can trust who will work with you and your estate agent to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Brookes Hall strongly advises that you get recommendations should you not already have a solicitor you use.
•  When the solicitor’s details for both parties have been received the sale is confirmed in writing and your agent should keep you regularly updated on the progress of your sale. Brookes Hall is confident that our level of service to you in this area is exceptional. We understand the anxiety a silent phone or no post can cause.

Preparing your home for sale:

Before you put your property on the market to compete with the other properties for sale in your area, it is essential that you make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. We advise you carry out the list below which should enhance your chances of achieving a faster sale at the price you want.

1. First impressions really do count.
   Most people have made up their minds within a few minutes of entering the property. If the outside leaves a negative impression it won’t be a good start. Give the front door a fresh lick of paint and ensure windows are clean. Tend to the front garden; add some colour with pots and baskets filled with seasonal blooms, keep lawns mown and weed all borders and paths. It’s also a good idea to remove cars and wheelie bins if possible as they can be unsightly.

• Look at which rooms could benefit from freshening up. Clean carpets and neutral colours make rooms look bigger. If you do repaint, decorate the whole room to avoid obvious touch ups.
• Declutter.
  A good clear out will make rooms more spacious, and you’ll be glad you’ve done it when you come to pack for your move.  
• Spring clean (whatever the season)
  Giving your home a thorough clean and keeping it that way will show the property has been looked after. Kitchens and bathrooms in particular need to be clean and tidy. Don’t leave visible clutter such as pots and pans in the kitchen and bottles in the bathroom. 
• Garden.
  After kitchens and bathrooms it is a nice garden that buyers list as a priority. However big or small it is essential that this area of your home is neat and tidy to show it off to its best potential to a prospective buyer.
• Finishing touches.
  When you start having viewings you need to make sure the house is tidy; make sure floors and surfaces are clear, washing up done etc. Make sure blinds and curtains are open, especially during the warmer months to let plenty of air and light in. This will also help create a fresh natural smell which is far more appealing to potential buyers than pungent artificial room fresheners or last night’s dinner. Turn on all internal lights, especially table lamps and under unit lighting in the kitchen.

If you have a question, feel free to email your question below or phone us on
01242 257 675 and we would be happy to help.